Description

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake is a cozy, family-friendly dinner made with tender chicken, broccoli, soft orzo, and a rich cheese sauce baked until hot and bubbly. It is hearty enough for a full meal, easy enough for weeknights, and perfect when you want something warm, creamy, and satisfying from one dish.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

1 cup uncooked orzo

3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, then add the milk, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

4. Stir in the uncooked orzo and simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo begins to soften.

5. Fold in the cooked chicken, broccoli, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until evenly combined.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the panko over the top.

7. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

8. Rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then top with parsley and serve.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to make prep even faster.

Do not overcook the orzo on the stovetop since it will finish in the oven.

If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat it dry first so the bake stays creamy, not watery.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 615
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: creamy cheesy chicken broccoli orzo bake, chicken broccoli casserole, cheesy orzo bake