Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

Imagine a velvety, comforting spoonful of tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken morsels, and vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, silky sauce that clings to every bite. That’s what you’ll experience with this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo – a perfect weeknight dinner that delivers gourmet satisfaction without complicated techniques. This one-pot wonder combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in a harmonious blend that both kids and adults will devour. You’ll learn how to create restaurant-quality Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo with simple ingredients and foolproof techniques that guarantee success every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo recipe will quickly become a family favorite for multiple reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile – elegant enough for dinner guests but simple enough for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying on the table fast. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the slight bite of perfectly cooked orzo and the fresh crunch of tender-crisp broccoli.

The dish strikes that perfect balance between comforting and nutritious. The protein-packed chicken keeps you satisfied, while the broccoli adds essential vitamins and a pop of color. Everything comes together in one pot, meaning fewer dishes to clean afterward – a benefit anyone can appreciate!

The creamy sauce is the true star, coating each piece of orzo without being heavy or overwhelming. It’s a chicken pasta dish that feels indulgent while still being wholesome enough for regular rotation in your meal planning. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

For this delicious Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo, you’ll need:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ cups dry orzo pasta (10 ounces)
• 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

The chicken provides lean protein, while the orzo pasta creates the perfect canvas for the creamy sauce. Fresh broccoli adds nutrition and color, and the Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth that ties everything together.

Pro Tips

Season in layers: For the most flavorful Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo, season at each stage of cooking. Start by properly seasoning the chicken before browning, then add another light sprinkle of salt when sautéing the onions and garlic. This builds a complex flavor profile that makes the dish taste professionally prepared.

Don’t overcook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets at the right time to ensure they maintain their bright green color and slight crunch. Perfectly cooked broccoli should be tender but still have some resistance when bitten – overcooked broccoli turns mushy and loses its vibrant color and nutritional value.

Create the perfect creamy consistency: When adding the Parmesan cheese to your chicken orzo, remove the pot from heat first and stir gradually. The residual heat will melt the cheese without causing it to separate or become stringy. If your sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth; if too thin, let it stand for a few minutes to thicken naturally.

Instructions

Step 1

Season the chicken cubes generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the first side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

Step 2

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3

Add the dry orzo pasta to the pan and stir to coat in the oil and butter mixture. Toast the orzo for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to turn light golden brown. This toasting step adds an incredible nutty depth to your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo.

Step 4

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Uncover and stir well to prevent sticking.

Step 5

Add the broccoli florets on top of the orzo, cover again, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the orzo is almost tender and the broccoli is bright green.

Step 6

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken with any accumulated juices. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce starts to thicken.

Step 7

Remove from heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo stand for 5 minutes to thicken before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley right before serving.

Variations

Mediterranean Version: Transform your Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo with Mediterranean flavors by adding ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, ⅓ cup Kalamata olives, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Swap the Parmesan for crumbled feta cheese and finish with a sprinkle of fresh dill instead of parsley. This variation brings bright, tangy notes that complement the creamy base beautifully.

Vegetarian Option: Create a delicious meatless version by omitting the chicken and doubling the broccoli or adding 2 cups of mushrooms sautéed until golden brown. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and consider adding ½ cup frozen peas in the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and protein. The creamy orzo with vegetables makes a satisfying main dish or side.

Dairy-Free Alternative: For those avoiding dairy, substitute the heavy cream with canned full-fat coconut milk and replace the Parmesan with 3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor. Add 1 tablespoon of white miso paste with the broth for depth. This variation maintains the creamy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creamy sauce, as the orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally.

For serving, pair this creamy orzo dish with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the main course. A side of garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. For a special touch, serve the Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo in shallow bowls topped with additional fresh herbs, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, and a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan.

This dish also works beautifully as a side for simply grilled fish or as part of a larger spread for entertaining. The versatile chicken and broccoli orzo pairs well with most dry white wines, particularly Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but add it during the last 3 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. There’s no need to thaw it first; simply add it frozen directly to the pot.

Is orzo pasta or rice?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from wheat flour, not rice. It cooks more like pasta but has the versatility of rice in many dishes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it up to a day ahead. The orzo will continue absorbing liquid, so add extra broth or cream when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can work in a pinch, though the sauce won’t be as rich. For a lighter version, try evaporated milk or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt.

Why is my sauce too thin?
If your sauce seems too thin, let the dish stand uncovered for 5-10 minutes before serving. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid, and the sauce will naturally thicken as it cools slightly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is comfort food at its finest — creamy, satisfying, and packed with protein and vegetables in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together around the table, creating those precious moments of connection over a delicious meal. The balance of tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and fresh broccoli makes this a complete meal that feels special enough for company but simple enough for weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or culinary enthusiasts, this versatile one-pot wonder delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.

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