Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Skillet – Creamy One-Pan Dinner

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Skillet – Creamy One-Pan Dinner

This garlic Parmesan chicken and broccoli orzo skillet is the perfect weeknight dinner idea when you want something quick, creamy, and satisfying. It combines juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and buttery orzo pasta all cooked in one pan with a smooth Parmesan cream sauce. This easy recipe is a complete meal with protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it ideal for busy families, meal prep, or even special occasions. 

 

Why This Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe Works

This dish is a family-friendly dinner that offers comfort and flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, but it comes together with simple pantry ingredients. Cooking everything in one skillet means less mess and more flavor since the chicken, pasta, and sauce blend together perfectly during the cooking process. The orzo pasta absorbs all the seasonings, chicken broth, and cream, making every bite rich and delicious. The addition of broccoli not only adds a fresh and slightly crisp texture but also makes the dish more nutritious.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced 
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil 
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 
  • Salt and black pepper to taste 
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta 
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth 
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen 
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 
  • ½ cup heavy cream 
  • 1 tablespoon butter 
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

Step 1 – Cooking the Chicken

Place a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir occasionally and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until the chicken is golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2 – Toasting the Orzo

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the uncooked orzo pasta and stir for about 2 minutes until slightly golden. Toasting the orzo at this stage gives it a richer flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy later.

Step 3 – Simmering the Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the orzo to cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4 – Adding Broccoli and Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the broccoli florets. If you are using fresh broccoli, make sure the pieces are small enough to cook quickly. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 5 – Making the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Make sure the sauce coats the chicken, broccoli, and pasta evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6 – Serving

Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Orzo

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce Cut chicken into even-sized pieces so they cook evenly If using frozen broccoli, add it directly without thawing to avoid excess water in the sauce You can replace half the cream with milk for a lighter version For extra richness, add a small amount of cream cheese along with the Parmesan

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo

While this dish is complete on its own, you can pair it with sides for a more elaborate dinner. A crisp garden salad with a lemon dressing adds freshness, while garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables or grilled zucchini also make a great pairing.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore the creaminess. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each heating cycle.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 out of 4 portions Calories: 540 kcal Protein: 34 g Carbohydrates: 44 g Fat: 24 g Fiber: 4 g

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weeknights

Weeknight dinners need to be quick, easy, and satisfying. This creamy chicken and broccoli orzo skillet takes about 35 minutes from start to finish and requires minimal cleanup. By cooking everything in one skillet, you save time and allow flavors to develop naturally. The pasta cooks directly in the broth, which enhances its flavor and eliminates the need for a separate pot.

Final Notes

The garlic Parmesan chicken and broccoli orzo skillet is a versatile recipe you can customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. It delivers the perfect mix of creamy, cheesy comfort and wholesome ingredients, making it a great option for both everyday meals and special occasions. Try it once, and it’s likely to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

How to Customize Your Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Skillet

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or refrigerator. If you don’t have broccoli, substitute with spinach, peas, asparagus, or even roasted bell peppers. You can swap the chicken for turkey breast or shrimp for a lighter seafood option. If you prefer a gluten-free meal, replace the orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice. For a more indulgent version, stir in crispy bacon pieces or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor depth.

Best Cooking Tips for Perfect One-Pan Dinners

To make the most out of one-skillet recipes like this, it’s important to layer flavors. Cooking the chicken first creates flavorful browned bits at the bottom of the pan, which get absorbed by the orzo later. Toasting the pasta before adding broth enhances its flavor. Using freshly grated cheese ensures the sauce blends smoothly without clumping. Another important tip is to monitor the broth as the orzo cooks. If the pasta is almost done but still too firm, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water and let it simmer until tender.

Why Orzo is Perfect for This Recipe

Orzo may look like rice, but it’s actually a type of pasta. Its small size and shape allow it to cook quickly and absorb sauces beautifully. In this garlic Parmesan chicken skillet, orzo works perfectly because it becomes tender without falling apart, and it blends seamlessly with the creamy sauce. Unlike long pasta, orzo doesn’t require draining, which keeps all the flavors in the skillet. It’s also a great choice for meal prep since it reheats well without becoming sticky or clumpy.

Making a Lighter Version

If you want to enjoy this recipe but keep it lighter, there are several easy swaps. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or replace it with evaporated milk. You can also use less cheese or replace some of the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a lower-fat option that still delivers a cheesy flavor. Opting for skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs reduces the fat content, and adding more vegetables increases fiber and nutrients without adding many calories.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This creamy chicken and broccoli orzo is a great meal prep recipe because it stores and reheats beautifully. Simply divide it into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to three days. For freezing, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to two months. When reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently with a little added liquid to restore creaminess.

Pairing Ideas for a Complete Dinner

While this skillet meal is complete on its own, you can serve it alongside other dishes for an even more satisfying dinner. Garlic bread, cheese rolls, or crusty artisan bread are excellent for soaking up the creamy sauce. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with lemon dressing adds brightness and freshness. For special occasions, pair it with roasted asparagus or a side of baked potatoes for a hearty spread.

Extra Flavor Boosters You Can Try

For a more robust flavor, add a splash of white wine to the orzo right after toasting it and before adding broth. The wine will add depth to the sauce and balance the richness of the cream. Another option is to mix in roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, more mellow flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives can also add complexity to the final dish.

Why This Will Become a Family Favorite

The creamy texture, mild flavors, and comforting nature of this dish make it appealing to both adults and kids. The balance of chicken, pasta, and vegetables ensures a satisfying meal without the need for extra sides. Plus, since it’s ready in just over 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you still want to serve something homemade.

Final Serving Tip

Serve this creamy chicken and broccoli orzo straight from the skillet to keep it warm and inviting. Garnish with fresh herbs right before serving for a pop of color. If you want an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top and let it melt over the hot pasta.
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