Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta: A Quick & Easy Southern Dinner
Looking for a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s ready in a snap? This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta is the perfect Southern-inspired weeknight meal. Made with tender orzo pasta, healthy broccoli, juicy white chunk chicken, and a generous amount of sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe combines ease and flavor in one pot. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of spicy cornbread for a Southern feast that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Why This Dish Works for Busy Weeknights
This one-pan recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience, making it ideal for busy schedules. With just a few steps, you’ll have a cheesy, hearty dish with ingredients that are easy to keep on hand. The orzo pasta and broccoli cook together, saving time and cutting down on dishes, while the canned chicken and melty cheddar bring that classic Southern comfort in every bite.
Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta
Ingredients You Will Need:
- orzo pasta
- fresh broccoli florets
- water
- white chunk chicken, drained
- shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- milk
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta & Broccoli
- Drain & Combine Ingredients
- Add Chicken, Cheese, and Seasoning
- Melt the Cheese
- Serve and Enjoy
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta with some crusty bread for an extra satisfying meal, or spice things up with a slice of jalapeño cornbread. The richness of the cheese and the tender bites of broccoli make this dish a true comfort food hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta is not only a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal but also a great way to add a dose of vegetables into a weeknight dinner. The broccoli adds a fresh, mild flavor, while the orzo and cheese create a creamy, savory base that everyone will love. Plus, the entire meal comes together in under 20 minutes—a win for busy families.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Pasta
Equipment
- 1 large pot
Ingredients
- 1 pound orzo pasta
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 4 quarts water
- 2 large cans white chunk chicken, drained
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta & Broccoli: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add orzo pasta and broccoli florets, cooking until both are tender (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain & Combine Ingredients: Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pot.
- Add Chicken, Cheese, and Seasoning: Add the drained chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Melt the Cheese: Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and well-combined, about 3–5 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot, with a side of crusty bread or spicy cornbread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
Discover more from Sincere Scribbles: Southern Recipes and Simple Living
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