This Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort dish! Tender chicken, tasty broccoli, and creamy cheese come together with fluffy orzo for a cozy meal.
Trust me, when this bake is bubbling in the oven, your kitchen will smell amazing! I like to add extra cheese on top because, let’s be honest, you can never have too much cheese. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a unique texture to the dish. If you don’t have orzo, you can use other small pasta like ditalini or even rice as an alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is what I prefer for a lean option. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time or even swap in cooked turkey for a fun twist!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are key for color and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, just be sure to thaw and drain well before adding.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for different flavors. If you’re going dairy-free, try using a vegan cheese substitute.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the bake rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use low-fat milk or a dairy-free milk alternative, but adjust the thickness with a bit of flour or cornstarch.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is essential for this recipe. You want it cooked through but not dry. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil in the pan before adding the chicken; this helps with browning.
- Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink on the outside, about 5-6 minutes. It will continue to cook once baked.
- Cut the pieces small to ensure even cooking and quicker time in the pan.
Using a meat thermometer can take out the guesswork! You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
What’s the Best Way to Get a Creamy Sauce?
The sauce should be rich and creamy but not too thick. Follow these tips for the perfect texture:
- Add cream after the pasta has absorbed some broth to help it meld into the sauce.
- Stir in the cheese gradually, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. This prevents clumping.
- If the mixture seems too thick before baking, add a splash more chicken broth to loosen it up.
With these tips and techniques, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy and comforting chicken broccoli orzo bake! Enjoy every bite.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and it will need about 10-15 minutes to bake in the oven. Total time is approximately 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking once you prepare the dish.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes until the outside is no longer pink. Don’t worry, they don’t need to be fully cooked since they will finish cooking in the oven.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Now stir in the orzo, broccoli florets, and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will help cook the orzo and steam the broccoli.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. During this time, keep an eye on it to ensure that the orzo starts to absorb the liquid, and the broccoli becomes tender but still bright green.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce:
After simmering, remove the cover and stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake the Dish:
If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it directly into the oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish before baking.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving to add a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy casserole!
This casserole delivers a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish featuring tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and soft orzo baked to perfection. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the dish so it doesn’t release excess moisture while baking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just be aware that this may slightly change the creaminess of the bake.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to help revive the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it straight from the refrigerator; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
