Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
User Reviews
5
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Description
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo brings together chunks of seasoned chicken breast sautéed until just cooked and rested to retain juices. Broccoli and finely diced onion are softened in butter, then garlic is added for aroma and flavor. Orzo pasta joins the skillet and is simmered in chicken broth until tender, absorbing the liquid to create a creamy starch base. Two complementary cheeses, parmesan and cheddar, melt into the hot orzo maintaining a smooth, cheesy consistency. A splash of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness, while fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley add brightness and freshness.
The texture balances tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and soft orzo coated in a creamy cheese sauce. This combination makes it a hearty yet approachable one-skillet meal, suitable for weeknight dining. Serve it directly from the skillet, optionally topped with extra grated parmesan.
The suggested use of a strong-flavored parmesan cheese pairs well with medium cheddar or Colby jack, but other cheddar varieties can be substituted based on preference. Adjust seasoning after adding lemon juice to balance salt and pepper as needed.
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1/2 onion (finely diced)
- 4 garlic minced, cloves
- 1 1/2 cups broccoli (cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups cheese (1/2 cup of parmesan, 1 cup of cheddar)
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice fresh
- fresh herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces, for about 3 minutes per side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Once the chicken is no longer pink, remove it from the skillet and place the chicken plus the juices on a plate. Cover.
- Add the butter, onion, and broccoli to the skillet and cook until softened about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
- Add the orzo pasta and toss to coat. Stir in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-11 minutes. The orzo should soak up the chicken broth.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese and 1 cup of cheddar cheese and stir to melt. Add in cooked chicken and stir to coat.
- Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice into the skillet and stir. Taste for seasonings and add more salt and pepper as needed.
- Top with fresh herbs, if desired, and freshly grated parmesan or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Notes
- Use a robust parmesan for a nutty, deep cheese flavor that enhances the dish.
- Combining parmesan with medium cheddar or Colby jack provides balanced sharpness and creaminess.
- Adjust seasoning after adding lemon juice to achieve the desired flavor balance.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 5Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 368 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 368kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Protein | 19g | 38% |
| Fat | 20g | 31% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 63mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 1284mg | 54% |
| Potassium | 324mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 662IU | 13% |
| Vitamin C | 27mg | 30% |
| Calcium | 276mg | 28% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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