Quick and Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes

Name: Quick and Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese (sharp cheddar and mozzarella blend); 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

By Maria Del

September 6, 2025

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Quick and Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo One Pan Comfort in 30 Minutes is a dream come true for busy weeknights. Imagine tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy, cheesy orzo all coming together in one pot, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas that make everyone’s mouths water.

Now, picture this: the clock is ticking down on dinner time. You’re juggling a million things—homework, a dog that thinks it’s time for a walk, and the endless quest to find matching socks. The thought of complicated recipes makes you want to cry. But fear not! This dish is here to save the day (and your sanity) with its quick preparation and comforting flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings
The rich flavors create an explosion of comfort in every bite
Its creamy texture enhances the visual appeal, making it an instant favorite on any dinner table
It’s versatile enough to swap out ingredients based on your pantry staples or dietary needs

Creating this delightful dish has turned my kitchen into a happy place where family gathers around the table, sharing laughter and memories over cheesy goodness.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and perfectly absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Opt for vibrant green florets; they add color and nutrition to your meal.
Heavy Cream: For that rich creaminess that makes this dish oh-so-satisfying.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the dish its cheesy goodness.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for more flavor control throughout cooking.
Garlic Powder: Skip fresh garlic; this adds depth without the chopping effort.
Onion Powder: A sprinkle of this enhances savory notes without overwhelming the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all those wonderful flavors.
Olive Oil: A drizzle at the start helps everything brown nicely and adds richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before starting. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces while keeping broccoli florets ready for quick addition later.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes.

Add Orzo and Broth: Once chicken is browned, stir in orzo pasta along with chicken broth. Bring mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally so nothing sticks!

Toss in Broccoli: When broth begins bubbling away like it’s excited about dinner too, add broccoli florets. Cover skillet and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender—but don’t overcook!

Create Creamy Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese once orzo has absorbed most liquid. Let it simmer briefly until cheese melts into gooey perfection—it’s as magical as a unicorn sighting!

Final Seasoning Touch: Taste test! Add more salt or pepper if needed because nobody wants bland food unless they’re punishing themselves (or on a diet).

And there you have it! Quick and Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo One Pan Comfort in 30 Minutes is ready to serve! Dish up generous portions into bowls as everyone dives headfirst into creamy bliss.

This recipe will nourish not just your belly but also your heart through shared moments at the dinner table. Enjoy!

You Must Know

This delightful Quick and Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo One Pan Comfort in 30 Minutes is not just quick; it’s a hug in a bowl
The creamy texture combined with the cheesy goodness brings smiles to even the grumpiest faces at the dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for that golden crust, then cook the broccoli and orzo together for a seamless blend of flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For even more flavor, season your chicken with garlic powder before cooking
Avoid overcooking the orzo; it should be al dente
Adding a squeeze of lemon brightens up all the flavors beautifully

Sometimes, my friends declare this dish their new favorite comfort food, and who am I to argue? It’s that good!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.

What can I serve with this one pan dish?

A crispy side salad or warm bread pairs perfectly with this creamy delight.

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

You can whip up this delicious dish in just around 30 minutes!

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