Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli

Name: Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder

Jack Ellison

Update : March 15, 2026

Delicious creamy cheesy orzo with chicken and broccoli in a bowl

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why make this recipe

This dish is quick, filling, and easy. It brings together soft orzo, tender chicken, and bright broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce. You can make it in one pot and have dinner ready in about 20 minutes. It is good for busy nights and for feeding family.

how to make Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli

Ingredients :

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Directions :

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir in shredded chicken, broccoli, heavy cream, cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook until broccoli is tender and cheese is melted.
Serve warm.

introduction

Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli is a simple, comforting meal. The orzo cooks in broth and soaks up flavor. Add cooked chicken and broccoli for protein and veg. Finish with cream and cheese for a smooth, rich dish.

how to serve Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli

Serve hot in bowls. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese or a little black pepper on top. A small side salad or steamed vegetables go well with it. You can also serve with lemon wedges if you like a fresh touch.

how to store Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli

Let the dish cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Cheesy Orzo with Chicken and Broccoli

Use cooked chicken like rotisserie or leftover roast chicken to save time.
Cut broccoli small so it cooks quickly and stays tender.
Stir often after adding cheese so it melts smooth.
Taste and add salt and pepper at the end, since cheese and broth can be salty.
If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk to reach the texture you want.

variation (if any)

Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a mix of both for different melt and flavor.
Add a handful of spinach at the end for more greens.
Stir in a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright note.
Use turkey or cooked white beans instead of chicken for a different protein.

FAQs

Q: Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Small pasta like ditalini or small shells work, but cook time may change.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace chicken with extra beans or cooked mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Q: How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
A: Grate the cheese fresh and stir it in off the heat or on low heat. Add a little cream or milk to help it melt smoothly.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
A: Yes. Use milk or a lighter cream, but the sauce will be less rich.

Q: Is it safe to reheat more than once?
A: Reheat only what you will eat. Repeated cooling and reheating lowers quality and safety.

Conclusion

This simple, creamy dish is great for weeknights and uses common pantry ingredients. For another one-pot take on this idea, see one-pot cheesy chicken and broccoli orzo recipe for more tips and a similar method. If you want a different cheese-and-broccoli version, check this cheesy chicken & broccoli orzo version for ideas you can try at home.