Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Recipe is a wonderful choice. It combines tender chicken and fresh greens in one pot.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless chicken breast cut small.
- 1 1/2 cups of dry orzo pasta.
- 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets chopped.
- 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.
- 1/2 cup of whole milk for creaminess.
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for frying.
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for spice.
Instructions
Cook the Sliced Chicken
- Melt butter in your skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown.
Add the Tiny Pasta
- Pour the dry orzo into the pan with chicken. Stir it for one minute to toast the pasta.
Pour in the Liquid
- Add the chicken broth to the hot pan. Bring the liquid to a boil very quickly now.
Simmer the Orzo
- Turn the heat down to low and cover. Let the pasta cook for about eight minutes today.
Add the Fresh Broccoli
- Place the chopped broccoli on top of the pasta. Cover again and steam for three more minutes.
Stir in the Milk
- Pour the whole milk into the creamy pasta mixture. Stir well so the orzo does not stick.
Melt the Sharp Cheese
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the hot pot. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Season and Serve Hot
- Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder now. Serve the warm cheesy pasta in large bowls.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for a very bright color.
- Do not overcook the tiny orzo pasta today.
- Toast the pasta first for a nutty flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
- Use a mix of cheddar and parmesan cheese.
- Stir the pot often to prevent sticking issues.
- Cut the chicken into very even small cubes.