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Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken for Cozy Nights

This Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Chicken is a creamy, one-pot meal that's hearty and nutritious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds healthy fat for cooking; substitute with avocado oil or melted butter.
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • ½ medium Yellow Onion Chopped for aromatic base flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Minced, about 3 cloves.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Broccoli Spear Cut into 1-inch pieces; avoid frozen.
  • 1 cup Grated Carrots For sweetness and color.
For the Cooking Liquid
  • 3 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 1 ¼ cups Dry Orzo The main carbohydrate; not interchangeable.
For Creaminess
  • ⅓ cup Milk Use whole, skim, or dairy-free milk.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated, do not substitute.
  • ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese For additional flavor and creaminess.

Equipment

  • Large high-sided pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large high-sided pan over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and sauté for about 10 minutes until lightly browned.
  2. Add ½ chopped yellow onion and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  3. Mix in 1-inch pieces of broccoli, 1 cup of grated carrots, and 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir well, then add 1 ¼ cups of dry orzo and cover the pan.
  4. Cook the mixture for approximately 6 minutes, then remove the lid and simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Reduce heat to low, stir in ⅓ cup of milk and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Check seasoning, adjust if necessary, and serve immediately in warm bowls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 55gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 150mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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