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–+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a quick and comforting dinner featuring chicken, broccoli, and cheese, ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Substitute with small shapes like ditalini or couscous if needed.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Can be swapped with turkey or left out for a vegetarian version.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Broccoli Frozen broccoli can be used, must be thawed and drained.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated cheese yields the best melt and texture.
  • 1/2 cup Cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch.
For Flavor Enhancement
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a punchier taste.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • optional teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes For a hint of heat.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Chop chicken breast and broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chicken for 5-7 minutes until cooked through and golden. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add Broccoli and Orzo: Stir in broccoli and orzo, then add water or broth to cover ingredients by about an inch. Bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and simmer for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender.
  5. Create Sauce: Remove from heat, stir in cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Serve: Stir again and serve hot, garnished with optional red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Using freshly grated cheese ensures the best melt and creamy texture. Adjust seasonings as needed for personal preference.

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