Easy Chicken And Broccoli Orzo

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This easy creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a weeknight hero that comes together fast and tastes like comfort food. Tender chicken bites mingle with buttery orzo and bright broccoli for a dish that is both cozy and fresh. It is perfect when you want dinner on the table without fuss and looks beautiful for a simple dinner party or lunch plate. If you enjoy quick chicken meals, try this chicken avocado melt sandwich for another fast favorite.

Why Choose This Recipe

This recipe balances speed and flavor so you can have a restaurant style meal at home in about 30 minutes. It uses pantry friendly orzo and a handful of fresh ingredients to create a creamy, cheesy base that kids and adults both love. The method keeps the chicken juicy while the orzo absorbs the savory stock for maximum taste. Minimal cleanup is a plus since everything cooks in one skillet for most of the process. It is easy to adapt with whatever cheese or herbs you have on hand, and it reheats well for leftovers.

Flavor & Texture

Expect a satisfying mix of textures from tender chicken pieces to slightly al dente orzo and crisp tender broccoli florets. The parmesan brings a salty nutty note while cheddar melts into a lush, creamy sauce that coats every grain. Garlic and onion lay a savory foundation and a splash of lemon brightens the whole dish at the end. Fresh herbs add color and a fragrant finish that makes the plate pop. This is comfort without heaviness, thanks to the lemon lift and green vegetable.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 pound chicken breast, cut into small chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
1 cup orzo
3 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or parsley), for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and broccoli and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Add orzo and stir to coat in the buttery mixture. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10 to 11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Stir in parmesan and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Return chicken and its juices to the pan and mix well.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra parmesan before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Success

Use evenly sized chicken pieces so they cook through in the same time for perfectly tender bites. Toasting the orzo briefly in butter before adding stock helps develop a nutty flavor and keeps it from sticking. If your stock is low in salt, taste before adding more, since cheese will add saltiness too. Swap cheddar for gruyere for a more complex melt or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. For a complete meal on the table fast, serve with a crisp green salad.

Storage & Make Ahead Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of stock or water to loosen the sauce. You can prepare the chicken ahead and keep it chilled, then finish the orzo quickly when ready to eat. Cooked orzo will absorb sauce over time so add extra cheese or liquid when reheating to restore creaminess. Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the cooked broccoli and cheese can change.

Personal Closing Thought

This dish is one of those simple luxuries that feels special without extra effort. It’s a great go to when you want something cozy that still looks homemade and bright. Make it on a busy night and enjoy the compliments.