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Skillet Chicken Thighs

Savory Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

This Skillet Chicken Thighs recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with creamy orzo and tender broccoli, making for a delicious one-pan dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Substitute with skinless thighs for a leaner option.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
For the Orzo
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can be swapped with avocado oil.
  • 1 medium yellow onion White or red onion can be used.
  • 4 cloves garlic Fresh is best, garlic powder can be used as substitute.
  • 1 cup dried orzo Other small pasta shapes can work too.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables and Cheese
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Can replace with green beans or peas.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Other melting cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can be used.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Directions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Add additional olive oil, sauté onions for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the orzo and toast for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping the bottom.
  5. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 8 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Add broccoli on top, cover, and cook for another 12 minutes until chicken is cooked and broccoli is tender.
  7. Remove chicken, stir in cheese until melted, adjust seasoning, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 32gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning for a crispy skin.

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