Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and just the right kick of spice? Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheddar, spicy undertones, and perfectly cooked orzo. This hearty meal is ideal for busy weeknights, offering restaurant-quality taste in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Magic: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pan.
2. Spice Balance: Perfect level of heat complemented by creamy cheddar.
3. Kid-Friendly: Adjust the spice for a family-friendly option.
4. Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and hearty orzo pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Toast Orzo

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
2. Toast the Orzo: Stir in the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast lightly for added flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

1. Add Broth and Milk: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Check Texture: The orzo should be tender but not mushy. If the liquid is absorbed too quickly, add a splash of broth as needed.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Cheese

1. Add Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cover the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and vibrant green.
2. Incorporate Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Add the Dijon mustard and hot sauce for added flavor depth. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add Chicken Back: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with the cheesy orzo and broccoli. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, additional cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Success

1. Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes. To increase the heat, add a diced jalapeño or more hot sauce.
2. Perfect Orzo: Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Broccoli Texture: For crunchier broccoli, add it later in the cooking process. For softer broccoli, add it earlier.
4. Cheese Melting: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
2. Different Greens: Substitute broccoli with spinach, kale, or zucchini.
3. Alternative Cheeses: Try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a twist.
4. Whole Wheat Orzo: Use whole wheat orzo for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Make-Ahead: Prep the chicken and chop the broccoli up to 1 day in advance.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta?
   Yes! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. What’s the best chicken to use?
   Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier, but chicken breasts work just as well.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
   It’s not recommended, as the texture of orzo and broccoli may change after freezing.
4. How do I keep the sauce creamy?
   Stir frequently and avoid overcooking. Add extra milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion

Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. Its creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli creates a satisfying dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick family dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Get ready to enjoy a symphony of flavors and textures, all brought together in one irresistible skillet dish!

Yield: 4

Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

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Looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and just the right kick of spice? Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo is a one-pot wonder that brings together tender chicken, creamy cheddar, spicy undertones, and perfectly cooked orzo. This hearty meal is ideal for busy weeknights, offering restaurant-quality taste in under an hour.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Orzo:
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup cream or milk (optional for extra creaminess)
• For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Broccoli:
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (cut into small pieces)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Orzo

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the orzo and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cream (if using) until smooth. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Broccoli

1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

4. Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the orzo. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne if needed.

5. Serve

• Spoon the Spicy Cheddar Chicken and Broccoli Orzo into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheddar cheese, or cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

• Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or extra broccoli and use vegetable broth.