Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo – Easy One-Pan Family Dinner Recipe

Hey there, friend!

You know those days when dinner feels like a mountain to climb? You’re juggling laundry, emails, the dog needs a walk, the kids are hungry now—and you still have to figure out what to cook. This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo? It’s my midweek savior. It’s comforting, cheesy, filled with good stuff like broccoli and lean chicken, and best of all… it only needs one pan.

If you’re like me—a mom who loves to cook but doesn’t always have the time—this creamy, dreamy orzo dish is about to become your new go-to.

Let’s dive in.

Why I Love Making This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo for My Family

There are a lot of meals my family loves, but this one? It’s always met with smiles and second helpings. My picky eater gobbles it up. My husband swears it tastes like something from a cozy bistro. And I love that it sneaks in veggies, doesn’t make a huge mess, and reheats beautifully.

Honestly, this cheesy chicken broccoli orzo feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s packed with protein, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s endlessly customizable.

I’ve made it when friends come over for casual dinners, I’ve packed leftovers in lunchboxes, and I’ve even doubled it for potlucks.

🧀 What Exactly Is Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo?

Let’s break it down real quick if you’re new to orzo.

Orzo looks like rice but is actually pasta. It cooks faster than most pastas, absorbs flavor like a sponge, and gives you that creamy, risotto-style texture without the babysitting. Mix it with chicken, broccoli, and a good dose of cheddar and parmesan, and you’ve got pure comfort food magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Family-Sized)

You probably already have most of these in your kitchen!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1½ cups cheese total: 1 cup shredded cheddar + ½ cup grated parmesan
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Optional herbs for garnish: parsley, oregano, or basil

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Step by Step

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3 minutes per side, until no longer pink.
Remove the chicken from the pan (juices included!) and set it aside.

🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t crowd the pan or your chicken will steam instead of sear. Work in batches if needed!

2. Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, melt the butter.
Add the diced onion and broccoli and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
Add garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

3. Toast the Orzo

Add your uncooked orzo straight into the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in all that buttery goodness and let it toast for a minute or two.

4. Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in your chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

Let it cook uncovered for about 10–11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the broth has been absorbed.

5. Stir in the Cheese and Chicken

Reduce heat to low.
Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
Add your cooked chicken (plus those juices you saved!) back into the pan.

6. Finish with Lemon and Herbs

Turn off the heat.
Squeeze in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for balance.
Top with your favorite chopped herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Make It Your Own: Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free?

• Use gluten-free orzo or sub with cooked quinoa or short pasta.

No Orzo?

Try:

• Ditalini
• Small shells
• Pearl couscous
• Even rice (though you’ll need to adjust liquid and cook time)

Vegetarian Version?

Swap the chicken for:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Chickpeas
• Tofu cubes (pan-fried for texture)

Extra Creamy?

• Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese
• Or add ¼ cup heavy cream at the end

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Fridge:
Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Stays fresh for up to 4 days.

Reheating Tips:
Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to revive the creaminess.

Freezer-Friendly:
Yes! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions About Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it saves time and adds flavor. Just chop and add during the cheese step.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it holds up really well. Prep in the morning and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use other veggies?

Of course! Try:

• Peas
• Spinach
• Zucchini
• Mushrooms

Is it good for kids?

Mine love it. It’s mild, creamy, and easy to eat. Plus, it’s secretly packed with veggies!

Other Family-Favorite Dinners You’ll Love

• Creamy One-Pan Chicken Rice Recipes
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
• Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Comfort Dish

Save and Share!

📍 Save this recipe on Pinterest so you always have it on hand for busy nights.

👩‍🍳 Tried it? Leave a comment below! I’d love to hear how your Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo turned out—and if your kids cleaned their plates too. Don’t forget to tag @ritzyrecipes when you post pics!

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Works So Well

At the end of a long day, when all you want is something warm, filling, and simple, this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo delivers every single time.

It checks all the boxes:

• ✅ One pan
• ✅ Under 40 minutes
• ✅ Kid-friendly
• ✅ Creamy, cheesy, and cozy

And as someone who’s cooked hundreds of family meals, I can say with confidence: this one’s a keeper. Add it to your rotation, and I promise—it’ll save your week more than once.

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