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–+ servings

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake

Sally Thompson
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

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: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword broccoli chicken casserole, comfort food, creamy chicken bake, easy dinner, orzo recipe
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