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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo dish with chicken, broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A creamy and comforting cheesy chicken broccoli orzo dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or thawed frozen
For flavoring
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie works great
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese preferably sharp
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add broccoli; cook for 2 more minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and orzo; toast for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in broth, cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Cook uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring often.
  6. Add chicken, stir to heat through.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
  8. Season with salt and pepper. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken.

Notes

This dish is great for potlucks and can be made ahead of time. For a gluten-free option, use rice or lentil-based orzo. Don't skimp on the cream for that silky texture.