Description
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is a flavorful, one-pan meal combining juicy chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and tender orzo pasta all simmered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy-to-make American-style dish is perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 cup orzo
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups small broccoli florets (approximately 1 small broccoli head)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and brown on each side for 2-3 minutes until cooked through.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and shallot to the skillet with the chicken and cook together for about one minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the aromatics to soften.
- Toast the Orzo: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to develop a subtle nutty flavor.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth. Cook the mixture for about 7 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid the orzo sticking to the pan, until the pasta begins to absorb the broth.
- Add Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and continue cooking until the orzo is al dente and the broccoli is tender, about 3 more minutes.
- Finish with Butter and Cheese: Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 3 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until both have melted and formed a creamy, cheesy sauce coating the orzo and vegetables.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese.
- If preferred, substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for a juicier texture.
- To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa.
- Keep stirring during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking or burning.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
