Introduction
Looking for a delicious and comforting meal to warm you up on a chilly evening? Look no further than this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe! Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Directions
- Start by cooking the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until slightly tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to combine. Cook for a minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve the Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can definitely swap out the orzo for any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well in this recipe.
2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli can be a convenient and budget-friendly option. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the skillet.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for more flavor and texture.
Conclusion
There you have it – a delicious and satisfying Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dinner to enjoy with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this creamy and cheesy masterpiece in no time. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and indulge in a bowl of pure comfort and flavor!
