Description
Dive into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or easy meal prep. This creamy cheesy chicken broccoli orzo bake combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked orzo, and fresh broccoli in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. It’s an easy recipe packed with flavor, ideal for family dinners, cozy nights, or anyone searching for satisfying dinner ideas and food ideas that come together effortlessly.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken breast
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Cook orzo in salted boiling water until slightly underdone, then drain.
2. Blanch broccoli for 2–3 minutes and cool immediately.
3. Heat olive oil and cook chicken until golden and fully cooked.
4. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. Add flour and stir to form a roux, cooking briefly.
6. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth and thickened.
7. Stir in cheeses until melted, then add seasonings.
8. Combine orzo, chicken, and broccoli into the sauce.
9. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
10. Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
11. Rest for 5–10 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
Slightly undercook the orzo to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest and creamiest sauce.
Let the bake rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken properly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy chicken bake, orzo recipe, broccoli chicken casserole, comfort food