This comforting dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups small broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped shallot to the same skillet.
- Sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 3–4 minutes, until slightly tender but still bright green.
3. Prepare the Orzo:
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the orzo is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Create the Cheese Sauce:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or milk.
5. Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat everything in the cheesy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat the chicken through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo to bowls or plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy! 🍽️😊
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