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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken for Cozy Nights

Enjoy this Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken, a cozy, one-pot meal bursting with flavor and nutrition.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or boneless thighs
  • 0.5 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 3 cloves minced garlic fresh
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup grated carrots can use pre-cut matchstick carrots
For Cooking
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth any broth/stock will do
  • 1.5 cups dry orzo rice can be a substitute
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup milk choose from whole, skim, or dairy-free
  • 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese do not skimp on this ingredient
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese complements the cheddar
For Seasoning
  • spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dried Parsley, Black Pepper, Dried Thyme, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt, Bay Leaf) to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sauté until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until onions are translucent.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets and 1 cup of grated carrots, cook for 2 minutes. Add 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth, 1.5 cups of dry orzo, and spices. Mix well.
  4. Cover and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove the lid and continue for an additional 2 minutes, stirring to ensure orzo doesn’t stick. It should be tender and creamy.
  6. Lower the heat, stir in 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow to melt for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Spoon into bowls and garnish with additional cheddar or fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.

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