One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Whip up a quick weeknight meal with our Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet, bursting with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes! This delightful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo, all infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how satisfying it is to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a deliciously savory experience.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything is cooked in one skillet.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from broccoli, it’s a wholesome meal.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet are simple yet essential for creating a delicious meal. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for quick cooking and provide lean protein.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and has a lovely texture that soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and essential nutrients to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic, savory base that enhances the overall flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds creaminess and a salty kick that ties all the flavors together.
• Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water infuses the dish with extra flavor.
• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the chicken and vegetables.

Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to mix things up!

• Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try using feta or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free orzo or rice to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and measure out your orzo and broccoli. This will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, ensuring they are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broccoli

Once the chicken is done, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, toss in the broccoli florets and stir-fry for a few minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Cook the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Once the orzo is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and creamy, creating a luscious sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and broccoli will enhance the flavor significantly compared to their dried or frozen counterparts.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep the broccoli slightly crisp for better texture and nutrient retention.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid, just add a splash of broth or water as needed.
• Let it Rest: Allow the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.
• Top with Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, feel free to sprinkle additional parmesan on top before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Garnishes

To elevate your dish, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a bit of heat if you enjoy a spicy kick.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dish in individual bowls topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan and a slice of lemon on the side. This adds a fresh zing that complements the savory flavors beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing it to preserve its texture.

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead of time, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. Just remember to label them!

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.

What can I substitute for orzo?

If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta or even rice as an alternative.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and reheats beautifully.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or any of your favorite vegetables to enhance the dish.

How spicy is this dish?

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Broccoli Orzo Skillet is a must-try! It is simple, full of flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy the cooking and the delightful results!

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