Craving a comforting and delicious meal that comes together quickly? Look no further than Chicken Broccoli Orzo. This one-pot wonder is a symphony of flavors, combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and al dente orzo pasta in a creamy and satisfying sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and pleases everyone at the table.
Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. You can use different vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms, and even add in some cheese for extra richness. The recipe is also great for meal prepping, as it can be made ahead and reheated for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Get ready to gather these simple ingredients for your Chicken Broccoli Orzo:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 1/2 c. chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz.) can tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 12 oz. fresh broccoli, cut into florets, or 16 oz. pkg. frozen broccoli cuts
- 1 c. uncooked orzo
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. basil
- 4 oz. shredded Mozzarella
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Chicken Broccoli Orzo:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and chopped tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Incorporate the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Add the Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo. Cover the pot again and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through.
- Season and Finish: Season the dish with salt, pepper, and basil to taste. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Your Chicken Broccoli Orzo is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch of flavor.
Extra Information
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking.
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer, like Parmesan, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can also add in some crumbled tofu for extra protein.
- To make the dish more flavorful, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the broth.
- You can also use other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information:
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. However, the nutritional content can vary depending on the type of cheese used and the addition of other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a satisfying meal on its own. However, you can also serve it with a side salad or a crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating:
You can store leftover Chicken Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Orzo is a simple and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation time and customizable flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, try this recipe and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal.
Let me know in the comments what you think of this recipe and if you have any questions!
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to add it at the same time as the chicken broth and tomatoes.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the chicken. You can also add in some crumbled tofu for extra protein.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply store the leftover Chicken Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until heated through.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on your appetite.