Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings comfort to your table with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and savory orzo pasta in a luscious sauce. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and cream creates a creamy sauce that coats the orzo beautifully.
• Nutrient-Packed: Broccoli not only adds color but also a boost of vitamins to this hearty dish.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends!

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli, having the right tools will help you achieve the best results. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken while providing ample space for the orzo.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your ingredients are balanced for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 20 min
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~500

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Orzo

• 250g orzo pasta
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 500ml chicken broth
• 200ml heavy cream
• 60g grated Parmesan cheese
• 200g broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt & pepper

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Add Orzo

In the same pan, melt butter. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add orzo pasta and stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for around 8 minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid while remaining tender.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and broccoli florets. Continue cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes until the orzo is tender and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Serve

Return cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli!

Notes & Variations: For an added kick, consider adding red pepper flakes for spice. You can also swap out broccoli for spinach or use half cream and half milk for a lighter sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons complement the rich orzo.
• Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach Salad: Tossed with vinaigrette, nuts, and cheese for added texture and flavor.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a delightful crunch.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up every last bite of the dish.
• Focaccia: This herbed bread enhances the flavors of the orzo and chicken.

Top It Off

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil or thyme can brighten up the dish with fresh notes.
• Squeeze of Lemon: A dash of lemon juice adds acidity that balances the richness.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; it enhances all flavors beautifully.
• Proper cooking time: Cook orzo until al dente for a perfect texture that holds up in the sauce.
• Cream warming: Warm the heavy cream before adding it to avoid curdling when mixed with hot ingredients.
• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley make a noticeable difference in taste compared to dried alternatives.
• Allow resting time: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together wonderfully.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or cream until desired creaminess is achieved.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

Complementing your main dish with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent choices that work well alongside Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a crisp contrast to the creamy orzo.
3. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor from grilling pairs perfectly with the rich dish.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, they add texture and a nutty flavor to your plate.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the orzo.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements savory dishes and adds variety on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the chicken seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use olive oil, garlic powder, and spices generously to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the orzo: Cooking orzo too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste test to ensure it remains al dente.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts can affect the creaminess of the sauce. Always measure your broth and cream precisely for the best results.
• Skipping the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté garlic before adding other ingredients might result in a lack of flavor depth. Sautéing adds richness, so don’t skip this crucial step.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not using fresh Parmesan can compromise taste. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer flavor.
• Forgetting about customization: Sticking rigidly to the recipe may limit creativity. Feel free to add vegetables or spices according to your preference!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place orzo in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place orzo in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream to a skillet over low heat. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli?

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting dish made with tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken, broccoli florets, and a rich creamy sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! You can swap broccoli for spinach, peas, or asparagus based on your preference. This dish is versatile and allows for various vegetable options.

How do I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten up Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli, consider using half cream and half milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for best texture. Store cooked ingredients in the fridge until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can easily adjust ingredients and flavors according to your taste preferences. Try it out for dinner tonight; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo with Chicken & Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its one-pan preparation, you’ll enjoy less cleanup and more time savoring each delightful bite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a meal that suits your taste.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts, diced
• 250g orzo pasta
• 200ml heavy cream
• 60g grated Parmesan cheese
• 200g broccoli florets
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through; set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add orzo pasta and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for about 8 minutes until orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and broccoli. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until sauce thickens.
5. Return chicken to the pan, mix well, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 90mg