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Creamy cheesy chicken broccoli orzo served in a large skillet with melted cheddar and fresh broccoli

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

A creamy, one-pan cheesy chicken broccoli orzo made with shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich sharp cheddar sauce simmered into tender orzo pasta. Ready in 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 0.5 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or thawed frozen
  • 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium recommended
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works great
  • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese do not use pre-shredded
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly golden.
  2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes, letting them soften slightly at the edges.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and dry orzo pasta. Stir for about 30 seconds to lightly toast the orzo. You will start to smell the garlic right away.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a small splash of broth if the sauce thickens before the orzo is fully tender.
  6. Stir in the shredded chicken and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the freshly shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce looks smooth and glossy. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, shred your cheddar fresh from the block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of chicken broth stirred in over medium-low heat.