Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Orzo Skillet Meal

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Orzo Skillet Meal is ready in less than 30 minutes and makes the perfect weeknight meal. Chopped chicken, broccoli, and orzo are coated in a creamy and flavorful cheddar cheese sauce.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Servings servings

Calories 599kcal

Author Heather

Equipment

Ingredients

16 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon butter
½ small onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
¼ teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup chicken broth
1 ½ cups water
1 cup orzo uncooked
3 cups broccoli florets chopped
½ cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

Instructions

Cube chicken breasts into bite size pieces. Season with salt and pepper
Heat saute pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to pan. When heated, add chicken and cook until juices run clear, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
Add onions to pan and cook until they begin to brown and turn translucent. Add garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Add chicken broth and water to pan, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Add orzo, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 4 minutes (or, consult your pasta's package directions and cook for 5 minutes less than package directions state).
Remove lid and add chopped broccoli. Stir to combine. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing broccoli to steam and pasta to finish cooking. If all of liquid is absorbed, add an additional ¼ cup of water as needed.
Remove lid and add heavy cream, shredded cheese, and cooked chicken. Stir to combine. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes on low, or until cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition