Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo: A Creamy, Cheesy Weeknight Winner – Page 2

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! 🍽️😊