If you’re craving a dish that brings together velvety textures, vibrant greens, and comforting flavors, this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe is an absolute gem. It’s a delightful medley where tender chicken meets fluffy orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce that’s brightened by fresh broccoli. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings when you want something simple yet soul-satisfying on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a pivotal role in making this dish shine. From the juicy chicken breast bringing protein and richness, to the fresh broccoli adding color and crunch, every component balances flavor, texture, and nutrition perfectly.
- Chicken breast: Use fresh, boneless pieces for a tender and lean protein base that cooks quickly.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
- Garlic powder: Brings gentle warmth and aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
- Paprika: Imparts a mild smoky flavor and beautiful color to the chicken.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Orzo pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Fresh broccoli florets: Provide a satisfying crunch and vibrant green hues, plus a boost of nutrients.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory richness and helps cook the orzo to perfection.
- Heavy cream: Creates that signature luscious creaminess that ties everything together beautifully.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce lending a nutty, salty complexity.
- Butter: Adds a silky finish and deepens flavor during cooking.
- Fresh parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of color as a garnish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breast pieces generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until each side is beautifully golden and cooked through. Once the chicken has that perfect sear, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. This step locks in flavor and juiciness, providing a savory base for your dish.
Step 2: Cook the Orzo
In the same skillet, introduce butter and let it melt over medium heat. Toss in some chopped garlic or garlic powder and sauté briefly until fragrant—about a minute. Now it’s time to add the orzo pasta along with the chicken broth. Bring this mixture up to a boil and then reduce the heat, allowing the orzo to cook until it’s nearly tender, which usually takes 8 to 10 minutes. The broth infuses the pasta with deep flavor, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Step 3: Add Broccoli and Cream
Next, stir fresh broccoli florets into the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and immediately mix in Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. This combination thickens quickly, enveloping the orzo and broccoli in a rich, velvety sauce. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still has a bit of bite. This is where the dish really starts to come alive with creamy goodness and vibrant veggies.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Finish
Return the golden seared chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together so the chicken is coated in that luscious sauce along with the orzo and broccoli. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a lovely burst of color and a touch of freshness before serving. This finishing touch elevates the whole dish and makes it feel special.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only livens up the plate visually but adds an herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness perfectly. For a little extra zest, a light grating of more Parmesan cheese on top is always a crowd-pleaser.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe is pretty hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that divine sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual ramekins and top with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for a little crunch. Or, transform it into a one-pan bake by transferring everything into a casserole dish, topping with cheese, and broiling until bubbly and golden.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet or microwave.
Reheating
Reheat slowly over low heat in a skillet to preserve the creamy texture. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter option, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap orzo for a gluten-free pasta or substitute with quinoa or rice for a similar texture and satisfying bite.
How do I make the broccoli more tender?
If you prefer softer broccoli, steam it beforehand or cook it a little longer in the sauce, but be careful not to overcook and lose that fresh flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas make great additions and bring even more color and taste to the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe that makes it a must-try for any home cook. It’s simple yet packed with layers of flavor, perfect textures, and a warmth that feels like a big, cozy hug on a dinner plate. I can’t wait for you to make it and share in the deliciousness!
Print
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken broccoli orzo is a comforting one-pan meal that combines tender seared chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, and tender orzo pasta cooked in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together luscious flavors and wholesome ingredients in a simple skillet dish.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into pieces
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry & Dairy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast pieces evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet and sear until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Cook Orzo: In the same skillet, add butter and melt it over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in chicken broth. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the orzo until it is almost tender, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Broccoli and Cream Sauce: Add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet with the orzo. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until the sauce thickens and the broccoli becomes tender but still vibrant green.
- Combine Chicken and Finish: Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine the chicken with the creamy orzo and broccoli mixture. Allow the dish to heat through for an additional minute.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt content.
- Ensure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain a nice texture and vibrant color.
- Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Optional: add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a fresh tang.
