One Pot Broccoli Cheese Orzo
A comforting one-pot meal combining tender chicken, broccoli, and orzo pasta in a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon Oil
- 1 lb Chicken Breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
- 1/2 Onion finely diced
- 4 Cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups Broccoli (cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 1/2 cups Cheese (1/2 cup of parmesan, 1 cup of cheddar)
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- Fresh Herbs (basil, oregano, or parsley) For garnish
Instructions
Cooking Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook for about three minutes on each side until browned and no longer pink in the center. Sprinkle with salt and pepper while cooking. Remove chicken and keep it covered.
Cooking Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and broccoli. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
Cooking Orzo and Combining Ingredients
- Add orzo to the skillet, tossing with vegetables. Pour in chicken broth, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-11 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Once orzo is tender, stir in half a cup of parmesan and one cup of cheddar until melted. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix together.
Finishing Touches
- Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, top with fresh herbs and extra parmesan before serving.
Notes
For best texture, serve immediately. If storing, let cool and transfer to an airtight container. Keep in refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or water.