Description
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a delightful, comforting dish that perfectly blends tender chicken breast and vibrant broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce over al dente orzo pasta. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, busy weeknights, or any occasion when you crave heartwarming comfort food. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and cooking time of 20 minutes, this dish is quick and satisfying. The robust flavors from garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese make it a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests while being simple enough to whip up on a hectic day. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added flair!
Ingredients
- Chicken breast pieces
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt & pepper
- Orzo pasta
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Garlic cloves, chopped
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare creamy orzo: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic until fragrant. Add orzo and chicken broth; cook until orzo is nearly tender (about 10 minutes).
- Combine ingredients: Add broccoli to the skillet; pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Cook until creamy and heated through (about 5 more minutes).
- Finish up: Return seared chicken to the skillet; sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap broccoli for spinach or asparagus based on your preference. For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or chili flakes.