Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s full of flavor and texture. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender orzo, while the broccoli adds a fresh, healthy crunch. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy evenings. The creaminess of the sauce makes it feel indulgent, while the broccoli and chicken provide a healthy balance, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

• 1 ½ cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if preferred)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and thyme. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the pan and stir it in with the onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let the orzo cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add the cream and broccoli: Stir in the heavy cream and add the broccoli florets (if using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed and drained). Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.

5. Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stir to combine, and let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s all heated through. If you want extra creaminess, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if desired.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more color and flavor.

• Use a lighter version: For a lighter dish, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half, milk, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy texture with fewer calories.

• Make it cheesy: For an extra cheesy version, stir in some shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese along with the Parmesan.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat to balance the creamy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking. If you need to cook from frozen, you’ll need to extend the cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken, orzo, and vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them when you’re ready to cook.

Can I use cauliflower rice instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute cauliflower rice for orzo if you’re looking for a low-carb version. Just cook the cauliflower rice in the broth for 5-7 minutes until tender.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.

Can I use different vegetables besides broccoli?

Yes, you can use other vegetables like spinach, peas, or green beans. You can also sauté mushrooms along with the onions for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the orzo is cooked?

Orzo typically cooks in about 8-10 minutes. It should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). If there’s any liquid remaining when the orzo is done, just let it absorb it or drain it.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta like ditalini or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish works well for meal prep. Simply store it in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to eat.

Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1-2 months. When reheating, add a little extra liquid (like chicken broth or milk) to restore the creaminess.

Can I skip the cream for a dairy-free version?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute for a lighter, dairy-free version of this dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a deliciously comforting dish that combines creamy pasta with tender chicken and fresh broccoli. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. The one-pot nature of the dish makes it simple to clean up, while the creamy sauce brings everything together in a rich, comforting way. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs, this dish is a complete meal that will quickly become a family favorite.