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When it comes to family-friendly meals that are both delicious and nutritious, Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo stands out as a top contender. This comforting dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese with orzo pasta, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next potluck, this recipe offers a perfect blend of convenience and satisfaction.

Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Discover the perfect family-friendly meal with this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese with orzo pasta. This nutritious delight is ideal for busy weeknights or potlucks and is easily customizable to fit your taste. Enjoy a warm, cheesy bite packed with essential nutrients that everyone will love, making it a meal worth repeating.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon paprika

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté Chicken: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

      Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

        Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream to the pot, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

          Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy.

            Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the orzo and broccoli are well coated in the cheese sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

              Serve: Spoon the cheesy chicken broccoli orzo into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings