Creamy Dreamy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Bowl

🥣 Creamy Dreamy Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Bowl

Ingredients (serves 4)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 2 chicken breasts (or thighs), diced into bite-size pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or blanched frozen)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth (warm)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half & half)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil/butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt & pepper, then sauté until golden and cooked through (5–7 min). Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add onion and cook until soft, then stir in garlic.
  4. Add orzo, toast lightly for 1 minute, then pour in warm chicken broth. Stir well.
  5. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid absorbed (about 8–10 min).
  6. Stir in broccoli florets and let them steam in the pot for 3 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat, add cream, Parmesan, thyme, and cooked chicken. Stir until creamy and combined.
  8. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
  9. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.