Chicken and Orzo: One-Pan Meal with Creamy Cheese Sauce
Looking for a wholesome, flavour-packed meal? Chicken and Orzo is your answer! This one-skillet recipe combines succulent chicken with creamy, cheesy orzo and fresh broccoli for a delicious, balanced dish.
Perfect for busy evenings, this meal requires minimal prep and creates a comforting dish in no time. With ingredients like orzo, chicken, broccoli, and cheese, this dish has everything you need for a satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love Chicken and Orzo
Chicken and Orzo has quickly become a staple meal, especially for those looking for an easy, delicious dinner option.
This recipe is a complete meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables, all cooked in a single pan, reducing clean-up time.
Each bite offers a creamy, savoury taste with a hint of cheese, balanced perfectly with juicy chicken and tender broccoli.
How to Make Chicken and Orzo
Follow these steps to whip up this delicious meal quickly.
Ingredients for Chicken and Orzo
For the Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder, parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Main Ingredients:
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- ⅓ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- ¾ lb. orzo
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce Ingredients
Combine all sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup. This will make it easier to add gradually later. - Tenderise and Season Chicken
Cover the chicken with cling film and pound it until even in thickness. Slice into strips, pat dry, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside. - Deglaze the Skillet
Add white wine (or chicken broth) to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits to incorporate that flavour into the sauce. Reduce by half, then add butter and garlic. Cook for a minute until fragrant. - Make the Cream Sauce
Sprinkle flour into the skillet, stirring continuously. Slowly pour in the sauce mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. - Cook the Orzo and Broccoli
Boil a pot of salted water, adding orzo and broccoli during the last three minutes. Drain once cooked, then add to the skillet. - Finish the Dish
Add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan, stirring to combine. Once the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened, return the chicken to the skillet and heat through.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken and Orzo
- Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce than pre-packaged cheese.
- Wine Options: Dry white wines like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay add a delicate flavour. Alternatively, use chicken broth if you prefer.
- Frozen Broccoli: Use frozen if fresh isn’t available. Simply boil it for 2–3 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- Skillet Size: A wide skillet ensures the sauce reduces and thickens evenly.
How to Store and Reheat
Place any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
For reheating, warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to thin the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken, add mushrooms, or increase the broccoli for a vegetarian twist.
- Alternative Pastas: Substitute orzo with small pastas like couscous or quinoa for a different texture.
- Extra Vegetables: Add bell peppers or peas for added nutrients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 596 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
Frequently Asked Questions
What is orzo?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta often used in Italian dishes.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken can save time. Add it at the end to heat through.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar offers a strong flavour, but mozzarella or Gruyère also work well.
Can I make this without wine?
Absolutely. Substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, Chicken and Orzo freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to three months.
Reference Links
Chicken and Orzo Recipe by The Cozy Cook
Perfect White Wines for Cooking
Cheddar Cheese Nutrition Facts
Vegetarian Substitutions for Chicken
Broccoli Health Benefits