Easy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

There's something incredibly satisfying about a dinner that comes together in one pot, uses ingredients you probably already have, and makes the whole house smell like comfort food heaven. I created this chicken broccoli orzo during one of those hectic Wednesday nights when Max had soccer practice, I had a work deadline, and everyone was starving by 7 PM. What started as throwing chicken, pasta, and whatever vegetables were in the fridge into one skillet turned into our family's most requested weeknight meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

What is Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Chicken broccoli orzo is a one pot chicken broccoli orzo dish that combines tender orzo pasta with seasoned chicken pieces and fresh broccoli in a creamy, flavorful sauce that cooks entirely in one skillet. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that require multiple pots and complicated steps, this creamy chicken orzo skillet creates a complete meal where the orzo absorbs all the delicious flavors while cooking to perfect tenderness. The result is a skillet chicken orzo dinner that tastes like comfort food but delivers balanced nutrition in every satisfying bite.

Jump to:

• What is Chicken Broccoli Orzo
• How To Make Chicken Broccoli Orzo
• Chicken Broccoli Orzo Ingredients
• Step by Step Method
• What Pairs Well With Chicken Broccoli Orzo?
• Chicken Broccoli Orzo Variations
• Equipment
• Storage Tips
• Top Tips for Best Chicken Broccoli Orzo
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Weeknight Comfort Made Simple
• Related
• Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Our creamy broccoli orzo pasta uses a technique where the orzo cooks directly in seasoned chicken broth, absorbing incredible flavor while creating its own creamy sauce without heavy cream. The secret is timing the chicken and broccoli perfectly so everything finishes cooking together, creating tender chicken and soft orzo with bright green vegetables. This method produces restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients and foolproof technique.

Chicken Broccoli Orzo Ingredients

Chicken Base:

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Orzo and Vegetables:

• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 ½ cups chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step by Step Method

Season and Cook Chicken

Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes Remove chicken and set aside, keeping flavorful drippings in pan

Build Flavorful Base

Add butter and minced garlic to same skillet with drippings Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burned Add orzo and stir to coat with garlic butter This creates the foundation for incredible flavor

Cook Orzo with Broccoli

Pour in chicken broth and bring to boil Add orzo and reduce heat to medium, stirring frequently Cook for 8 minutes, then add broccoli florets to the skillet Continue cooking 4-5 more minutes until orzo is tender and broccoli is bright green Most liquid should be absorbed, creating a creamy consistency

Create Creamy Golden Finish

Stir in heavy cream and bring to gentle simmer Add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth Return cooked chicken to skillet and fold in gently with broccoli and orzo Add lemon juice and black pepper, stirring until everything is well combined The mixture should be creamy and golden with visible chicken and bright green broccoli throughout

What Pairs Well With Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

This hearty chicken and orzo casserole pairs beautifully with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for complete comfort food meals. Try it alongside steamed green beans, dinner rolls, or a simple mixed greens salad for balanced nutrition. For special occasions, serve with white wine and crusty Italian bread for elegant dinner presentations.

Chicken Broccoli Orzo Variations

Broccoli Cheddar Version:

• Replace Parmesan with sharp cheddar cheese
• Add extra cream for ultra-cheesy richness
• Perfect for cheese lovers and kids
• Comfort food at its finest

Lemon Herb Chicken Orzo:

• Add fresh thyme and oregano to chicken
• Extra lemon zest and juice for brightness
• Include diced sun-dried tomatoes
• Mediterranean-inspired flavors

Healthy Lighter Option:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers
• Use whole wheat orzo for more fiber
• Reduce cheese for lower calories

Slow Cooker Method:

• Brown chicken first, then add to slow cooker
• Layer with orzo, broth, and vegetables
• Cook on low 2-3 hours until tender
• Perfect for busy day meal prep

Equipment

• Large skillet with lid for one-pot cooking
• Sharp knife for uniform chicken cutting
• Wooden spoon for stirring without scratching
• Measuring cups for accurate liquid ratios

Storage Tips

Best Fresh:

• Serve immediately while orzo is creamy and vegetables are bright
• Fresh preparation gives the best texture and color
• Cheese melts perfectly when pasta is hot

Leftover Storage:

• Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Add splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess
• Microwave gently to prevent overcooking

Make-Ahead Success:

• Prep chicken and vegetables in advance
• Cook fresh for best texture and flavor
• Perfect for weekly meal planning

Frequently Asked Questions

Weeknight Comfort Made Simple

Now you have the secret to creating this incredible chicken broccoli orzo that transforms busy weeknights into something special with one-pot convenience and restaurant-quality results. This recipe proves that the most satisfying comfort foods combine simple techniques with quality ingredients to create meals the whole family craves.

Ready for more flavorful chicken dishes? Try our Sweet Chili Chicken for sticky Asian-inspired glazed perfection, or explore our Black Pepper Chicken for bold, spicy flavors with aromatic heat. For the perfect vegetable side, our Alton Brown Broccoli delivers restaurant-quality results with simple technique.

Related

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