Creamy Garlic Chicken Orzo with Broccoli
A quick and comforting meal combining tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo for a satisfying dish perfect for any night.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes Can use either breast or thighs based on preference.
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta Can substitute with small shell pasta or farfalle.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen can be used.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream Adjust amount for desired thickness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For garnish and added flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet and brown on all sides.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in orzo and chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until orzo and broccoli are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
For more flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking. If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream.