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Chicken Broccoli Orzo: Amazing 1-Pan Meal

Chicken Broccoli Orzo
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A quick, easy, and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and creamy Parmesan orzo. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Broccoli: While the chicken is cooking, wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
  4. Sauté the Broccoli: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add the olive oil. Heat over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
  5. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  6. Add the Orzo and Broth: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the melted butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  7. Simmer the Orzo: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the broth has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  8. Stir in Cheese and Cream (Optional): Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream (if using).
  9. Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you like a little heat, stir in the red pepper flakes.
  10. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked chicken and broccoli into the creamy orzo.
  11. Serve Immediately: Serve the Chicken Broccoli Orzo immediately while it’s hot and creamy. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

  • Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the orzo; cook until al dente.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables, cheeses, or spices to customize the dish.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://quizsavor.com/chicken-broccoli-orzo-recipe/

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