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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Orzo in a bowl, garnished with parsley.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

A delightful blend of orzo pasta, shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Ingrédients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works well
  • 1 cup fresh broccoli florets Cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Freshly grated for best melting
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with dairy-free cream for lactose intolerance
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Gather all your ingredients. Ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded, your broccoli is cut into florets, and your cheese is shredded.

Cooking

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
  • Add orzo pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until the orzo is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Once the orzo is cooked, stir in shredded chicken and fresh broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes until broccoli is tender.
  • Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and forms a creamy sauce.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
  • Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave.
Keyword Comfort food, Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, Easy Recipes, One-Pot Meals, Quick Dinners