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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken: A Creamy Weeknight Delight

Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and nutritious one-pot meal that is sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Dish
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds moisture and flavor. Substitute with avocado oil or melted butter.
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Provides lean protein. Can be substituted with boneless chicken thighs or cooked chicken.
  • 0.5 cup Yellow Onion About half a medium onion, finely chopped.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced) Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 2 cups Fresh Broccoli Offers crunch and nutrition. Precooked or frozen broccoli is not recommended.
  • 1 cup Grated Carrots Adds sweetness and color.
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Provides moisture and flavor.
  • 1 cup Dry Orzo Acts as the carb component, absorbing flavors.
  • 1 cup Milk Adds creaminess.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Cheddar Cheese Key for cheesiness and flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds umami flavor.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • Salt to taste Salt

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm a drizzle of olive oil until shimmering. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooking for about 10 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir in the fresh broccoli florets and grated carrots, blending them with the sautéed onion and garlic for about 2 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the dry orzo and spices. Stir everything well.
  4. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium, and let the mixture simmer for 6 minutes. After this time, uncover and give it a gentle stir, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and pour in the milk, stirring to combine with the orzo mixture. Add the freshly grated cheddar and parmesan cheeses and gently mix until melted and creamy.
  6. Taste for seasoning and adjust as necessary. Serve immediately while warm, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 55gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

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