If you are craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and with minimal fuss, this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender chunks of chicken perfectly seasoned and browned, nestled alongside tender orzo pasta and vibrant broccoli florets, all swimming in a creamy, cheesy cheddar sauce that hugs every bite. This dish brings the perfect combination of protein, veggies, and comforting carbs into one pan, making it a delicious weeknight dinner that everyone will love and ask you to make again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the upper left is a white plate holding one raw chicken piece with smooth, pale pink skin. To the right, a clear glass measuring cup contains orange-brown broth. Below the chicken is a small gray bowl with a dollop of butter. Next to it is a small beige bowl filled with a mix of black pepper, pink salt, and dried herbs. To the right of the bowl is a white bowl heaped with shredded bright orange cheddar cheese. Below the cheese is a shiny metal measuring cup filled with pale yellow orzo pasta. In the bottom left corner, a large green broccoli head with a bumpy texture is placed. To the right of the broccoli is a halved small onion with layers in shades of purple and white, and near it are three cloves of peeled garlic with smooth white skin. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding wonderful texture, or infusing the dish with mouthwatering color.

Avocado oil: Provides a high smoke point and a mild flavor that’s great for browning the chicken.
Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking with plenty of protein.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives a lovely aromatic base and depth to the chicken.
Black pepper and salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
Garlic and shallot: Finely minced to add a gentle pungency and sweetness that lifts the whole dish.
Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
Chicken broth: Creates the flavorful cooking liquid to hydrate the orzo and meld the dish together.
Broccoli florets: Fresh and vibrant, they bring a nice crunch and bright color to the skillet.
Butter: Adds creamy richness, balancing the savory and cheesy elements.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a luscious sauce that coats all the ingredients for pure comforting goodness.

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the pan warms, season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and brown each side for 2-3 minutes. This step locks in juiciness and develops a lovely golden crust that brings great flavor to the final dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Once the chicken has a beautiful sear, toss in the minced garlic and shallot. Cook everything together for about one minute. This quick sauté releases the fragrance of the garlic and shallot, infusing the oil with delicious aromas that will carry through the entire skillet.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Next, add your orzo directly into the pan with the chicken and aromatics. Toast it for about one minute while stirring continuously. This step enhances the orzo’s nuttiness and helps build flavor right from the start, setting your dish apart from ordinary pasta dinners.

Step 4: Simmer in Broth

Pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine everything evenly. Let it simmer gently for roughly 7 minutes, stirring frequently to keep the orzo from sticking. During this time, the orzo absorbs the savory broth and starts to soften, creating a flavorful base for the tender broccoli and cheesy sauce.

Step 5: Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking

After the orzo has cooked most of the way, stir in the fresh broccoli florets. Continue cooking until the orzo is perfectly al dente and the broccoli is tender yet still crisp, about 3 more minutes. The broccoli adds a fresh bite and beautiful green color that makes this skillet pop on the plate.

Step 6: Melt in Butter and Cheddar

Turn off the heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter and 3 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until the butter and cheese melt completely into a silky, cheesy sauce that coats the chicken, orzo, and broccoli. This final touch gives the dish its signature rich, indulgent flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe

A white bowl is filled with a creamy dish made of light yellow orzo pasta, bright green broccoli florets, and small pieces of seasoned light brown chicken. The orzo looks soft with a slight shine, mixed evenly with the broccoli and chicken. On top, there are small strips of orange cheddar cheese scattered, adding color contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to a striped white cloth and a metal spoon. Part of a large pan with more of the same dish is seen in the upper part of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe even more, consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a burst of color and subtle freshness. A light grating of extra sharp cheddar can add an extra cheesy kick, or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can give it a mild heat if you enjoy spice.

Side Dishes

Because this skillet is a complete meal on its own, sides can be kept simple. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully to cut through the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks make fantastic companions for soaking up every bit of the cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the skillet family-style straight from the pan to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. For a dinner party, portion the orzo into individual ramekins and garnish with microgreens or a spoonful of sour cream for an elegant touch. You can even stuff roasted red peppers with the skillet mixture for a fun and colorful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so it makes for a fantastic next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This skillet freezes well if you want to extend its shelf life. Portion it into freezer-friendly containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Just be mindful that broccoli might soften slightly after freezing, but the dish will still taste delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skillet on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the orzo has absorbed too much liquid and appears dry. You can also microwave individual portions, covered loosely, heating in 30-second increments and stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides a tangy and creamy base, you can swap it for mozzarella for a milder melt, gouda for a smoky twist, or even a sharp parmesan for extra depth. Just keep in mind the melting qualities and adjust the quantity to taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, to make this dairy-free, skip the butter and cheddar and replace them with dairy-free alternatives like olive oil or vegan butter and a plant-based cheese that melts well. This adjustment keeps the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Frozen broccoli works fine in a pinch, but fresh broccoli will give you a better texture and vibrant color. If using frozen, add it a little earlier to allow extra time to cook off the thawed moisture and avoid a soggy dish.

What can I substitute for orzo if I don’t have any on hand?

If orzo isn’t available, you can use other small pasta shapes such as couscous, small shells, or even rice. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the substitute, so adjust accordingly to get the perfect tenderness.

Can this dish be made in advance and reheated for meal prep?

Definitely. This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep because it stores and reheats well. Portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week, making your life simpler without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals when I want something comforting, nutritious, and speedy. The harmony of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, creamy cheddar, and perfectly cooked orzo is just so satisfying. I’m confident once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again to brighten your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.