Creamy Chicken Orzo with Broccoli

Name: Creamy Chicken Orzo with Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk or heavy cream; 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Broccoli is a quick and hearty one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights. Tender chicken, velvety orzo, and vibrant broccoli are enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce for a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With a creamy texture and a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish hits all the right notes: creamy, flavorful, and made in just one pan. The orzo soaks up all the delicious chicken broth and cream, while the broccoli adds a fresh, nutritious crunch. It’s an easy dinner that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. Perfect for busy evenings or when you’re craving something warm and wholesome.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: Full measurements and substitutions are found in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Chicken
Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic & Toast Orzo
In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast it for 2 minutes until it starts to turn golden.
Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Cook the orzo uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add Broccoli & Cream
Stir in the broccoli florets and milk or heavy cream. Continue to simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Chicken & Cheese
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let everything cook together for 2 more minutes until creamy and well-combined.
Serve & Garnish
Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: ~490 per serving

Variations

Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Make it Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add mushrooms or extra broccoli for texture.
Try Other Greens: Substitute broccoli with spinach, kale, or asparagus for variety.
Swap the Pasta: Use rice, small shell pasta, or couscous if orzo isn’t available.

Storage & Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen. Note that the texture of the orzo may change slightly upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Just skip the first step and stir in the cooked chicken when adding the cheese.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. Add frozen broccoli during the same step as fresh, but allow a little extra cooking time.

3. Can I substitute cream with milk?

Yes, whole milk works well. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute non-dairy milk (like oat or almond) and skip the cheese, or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.

5. Is orzo gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. However, gluten-free orzo options are available at many grocery stores.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet or pot and double all ingredients accordingly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Orzo with Broccoli is a perfect mix of comfort and nutrition—rich, satisfying, and ready in just 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a dinner you’ll want to put on repeat. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes for a creamy, cozy meal you’ll love.