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One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Bliss in 30 Minutes

A quick and easy One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo dish that combines creamy comfort with nutritious veggies.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Thighs can be used for richer flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for cooking.
  • 2 tbsp Salted Butter Unsalted works if you add salt later.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be substituted.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Onion can also be used.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Carrots Frozen carrots are convenient.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion White onion can be a direct substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Minced fresh garlic preferred.
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Frozen broccoli can be used.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with rice or small pasta.
For the Flavoring Base
  • 1 tbsp Chicken Bouillon Powder Chicken broth is an easy alternative.
  • 4 cups Water Or chicken broth.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can be a lighter substitute.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Cheddar Cheese Mozzarella can be used for different flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pre-grated is convenient.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, and coat with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat until bubbly. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter, add diced carrots and chopped yellow onion, and sauté for about 7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Add the orzo to the skillet, stirring to coat, and toast for 1 minute. Then sprinkle chicken bouillon powder and pour in the water or broth.
  5. Incorporate the broccoli and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 11–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan, and mix until cheeses melt into the sauce.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet and heat for another 2 minutes. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 180mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Prep veggies and season chicken in advance to minimize stress during busy weeknights. Experiment with different cheeses for added flavors.

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