Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful and hearty dish that combines tender morsels of chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, delivering both comfort and nutrition in each bite. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 490
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 500 mg
Why Make This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The combination of shredded chicken and fresh broccoli enveloped in a velvety sauce makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. The one-pot preparation means less cleanup, making it a great choice for busy families or anyone who wants a comforting meal without the fuss.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. This releases the lovely aroma that sets a warm tone for your dish.
Step 2: Mixing
Add the cooked shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to combine with the garlic. This step infuses the chicken with flavor while warming it up.
Step 3: Cooking
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, stir in the orzo and broccoli florets. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the orzo is tender, approximately 10 minutes. The broccoli will be bright green and crispy-tender, adding a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Finishing
Once the orzo is cooked, turn off the heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and blends into the sauce, creating a creamy, luscious consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, serving immediately while it’s warm and comforting.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Serve this dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread to mop up the creamy sauce. This dish is also perfect as a standalone meal.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce, if necessary. Avoid freezing, as the cream may separate upon thawing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal prep.
- Vary the vegetables; feel free to add peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk, keeping in mind it may be less rich.
- Stir in some freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, or incorporate diced jalapeños.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different types of cheese such as mozzarella or asiago for varying flavor profiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use uncooked chicken? Yes, you can sauté diced uncooked chicken in the pot before adding garlic and other ingredients. Just ensure it cooks thoroughly.
- What if I don’t have orzo? You can substitute with other small pasta shapes like couscous or ditalini, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
- Is this dish gluten-free? No, regular orzo contains gluten. Look for gluten-free orzo alternatives if necessary.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
- How can I make it creamier? For an extra creamy texture, increase the amount of heavy cream and cheese. You can also blend in some cream cheese for added richness.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a scrumptious and satisfying dish that’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delightful meal that brings warmth and joy to the table. Give it a try, and savor the comforting flavors in every bite!
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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the cooked shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the orzo and broccoli, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until orzo is tender, approximately 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and add heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
