Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake – A Creamy, Cozy Dinner You’ll Want Every Week
If there’s one dish that brings everyone running to the table, it’s this cheesy orzo bake packed with juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s like a hug from the oven—warm, comforting, and surprisingly easy to throw together even on a busy night. This one-pan meal has that “home-cooked magic” vibe while still being quick and practical.
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1½ cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
1½ cups broccoli florets, chopped small
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1¾ cups milk (whole milk works best)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a golden top)
1–2 tablespoons grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish.
- Cook the orzo in salted water until just tender (about 7–8 minutes), then drain and set aside.
- While orzo cooks, steam or microwave broccoli for about 3–4 minutes until just tender.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan and paprika over the top if using.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 4–5):
| Calories | 470 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Printable Summary Table
| Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake | |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, orzo pasta, broccoli, cheese sauce |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Bake Time | 25 minutes |
| Serves | 4–5 people |
FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster and adds great flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare everything, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature and pop it in the oven.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before mixing in.
Q: What can I use instead of orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work well, or even cooked rice as a substitute.
