Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Bowl
If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and satisfying chicken dinner, this Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Pasta is the ultimate one-skillet comfort food! Packed with juicy seasoned chicken, tender orzo, and fresh broccoli all coated in a silky Parmesan cream sauce, this cozy weeknight meal is a true family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Orzo Pasta
Orzo pasta
Fresh broccoli florets
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1–2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh parsley (for topping)
For the Juicy Chicken
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Orzo
Boil orzo pasta in salted water until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
2. Season & Cook Chicken
Toss cubed chicken with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the cream and Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine & Serve
Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the creamy sauce, stir to combine, then fold the sautéed chicken back in. Season with salt and black pepper. Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of cheese.
Tips & Variations:
Add a squeeze of lemon zest or juice for fresh flavor
Swap cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free
Use rotisserie chicken for a faster weeknight meal
Stir in spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
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