Garlic Parmesan Chicken Orzo with Roasted Broccoli
Creamy garlic Parmesan chicken orzo with roasted broccoli combines tender seasoned chicken, cheesy orzo pasta, and caramelized broccoli in one comforting skillet meal. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or cozy gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet / Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs / 900g), cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups dry orzo
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 oz (60g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh basil, chopped
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon wedges
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roast for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate.
5. Melt remaining butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in dry orzo and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer orzo for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
8. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir until creamy and smooth.
9. Fold in spinach if using and cook until wilted.
10. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
11. Add roasted broccoli and warm everything together for 1-2 minutes.
12. Garnish with parsley, basil, extra Parmesan, lemon wedges, black pepper, and red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
For extra juicy chicken, cut pieces evenly and avoid overcooking.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating leftovers to restore the creamy texture.
You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
Add mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or extra spinach for more vegetables.