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While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
- Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked orzo and broccoli into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that everything is well coated with the sauce. Finally, add the sliced chicken on top and mix everything together.
- Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish:
- Creamy and Comforting: The rich cheddar cheese sauce is the perfect creamy base that ties all the ingredients together, making every bite deliciously indulgent.
- One-Pot Meal: This recipe is as easy as it gets when it comes to cleanup! Everything is cooked in one skillet (plus the pot for the orzo), making it a great option for a stress-free weeknight meal.
- Packed with Protein and Veggies: Chicken provides lean protein, while the broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters.
- Customizable: This recipe is super versatile. You can swap out the broccoli for other veggies like spinach, peas, or zucchini. Want to make it vegetarian? Skip the chicken and use a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas instead!
- Kid-Friendly: With the cheesy sauce and familiar ingredients, this dish is perfect for children and adults alike. It’s a great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables without them even noticing!
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Tips for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo:
- Cook the Chicken Ahead of Time: If you’re really in a rush, you can cook the chicken ahead of time, or even use pre-cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken) to save time. Just shred or chop it and add it to the skillet when you combine the orzo and broccoli.
- Add More Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover (who isn’t?), feel free to add a little more cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a melty, gooey finish.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce if you like a little heat in your meals.
- Make it Lighter: If you’re looking to make this dish a little lighter, you can use half-and-half or a lower-fat milk in place of heavy cream. You can also swap the butter for olive oil for a slightly healthier version.
Final Thoughts:
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors, making it a go-to recipe for any busy weeknight. It’s quick, easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a family, a group of friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So, next time you need a simple yet satisfying meal, give this creamy, cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo a try. You won’t be disappointed!
