Indulging in a comforting and hearty meal doesn’t have to be complicated. Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs, creamy orzo pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all cooked in one pan. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rich flavors that infuse the dish as it cooks. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy meal on the weekend, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why We Love This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a one-pan meal—less clean-up and more time to enjoy your food! You’ll love how the savory chicken thighs elevate the creamy, cheesy orzo, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color. Plus, this dish is packed with nutrients from the vegetables and provides a hearty dose of protein, making it a well-rounded meal. Not only is it simple to whip up, but the flavors blend together beautifully, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this comforting recipe will surely leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients about Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
How to Make Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Directions
Embarking on the journey to create this delightful meal is straightforward. Start by preparing your chicken thighs. Pat them dry using paper towels; this step is crucial as it helps achieve a crispy skin when seared. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Allow them to sear for about 5 to 7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip them and sear the opposite side for another 5 minutes. Once both sides are beautifully browned, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, you’ll melt the butter. Add the orzo pasta to the melted butter and toast it for 2 to 3 minutes until it smells nutty. This extra step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the orzo. After toasting, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Now, add your chopped broccoli florets to the skillet. This will not only cook the broccoli but also integrate its delicious flavor into the orzo. After adding the broccoli, place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the orzo and broccoli. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and the flavors to meld perfectly.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it again from the skillet and set it aside. Now, it’s time to incorporate the cheese! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with the milk or heavy cream, additional garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Finally, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, letting them bask in that cheesy goodness. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Serving this delectable dish can be as simple or as elegant as you desire. For a casual meal, serve straight from the skillet at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. You might want to have a side of crusty bread or a light salad to complement the richness of the chicken and orzo.
If you’re looking for a more formal presentation, transfer the orzo and broccoli mixture onto individual plates, placing the chicken thighs on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional cheddar cheese and freshly cracked pepper for a beautiful finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of lemonade or iced tea to refresh your palate.
You can also personalize the serving style according to your guests’ preferences. Consider keeping some extra cheese on the side for those who love a cheesy topping. No matter how you choose to serve it, this Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is sure to impress!
Expert Tips: Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Achieving the perfect skillet chicken and creamy orzo is all about a few key techniques. First, ensure that your chicken is patted dry thoroughly; moisture will prevent the skin from becoming crispy. Season the chicken generously, as the skin can handle it, and the seasoning will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
When toasting the orzo, don’t rush it. A few extra minutes will deepen the flavor and give you a wonderfully aromatic base. Pay attention to the timing of adding the broccoli. You want it tender but still with a slight crunch, which typically requires about 7-10 minutes of cooking time along with the orzo.
If you like a little extra zest, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when stirring in the cheese. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with varieties like gouda or mozzarella. Always taste as you go—it’s the best way to ensure your dish turns out just the way you like it!
How to Store Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), storing them is simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store the chicken and orzo together or separately, depending on your preference.
Make sure to refrigerate the leftovers promptly. They will keep well for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you can either reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If you find the orzo has absorbed too much liquid or has thickened, adding a splash of milk or broth while reheating can restore its creamy texture.
Variation of Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
This recipe is extremely versatile, allowing for many variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you’re seeking a healthier spin, try using skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts to cut down on fat. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken.
You can also switch up the vegetables in this dish. Bell peppers, spinach, or peas can all bring new flavors and textures. If you’re in the mood for a different flavor profile, experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding Italian seasoning for a herby twist or even a barbecue rub for a smoky flavor.
For those dealing with lactose intolerance, consider dairy-free cheese or a creamy plant-based alternative for the cheddar cheese. With just a few modifications, this comforting skillet dish can cater to various diets and preferences while still being delicious!
FAQ
What is Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a one-pan meal that combines seared chicken thighs with creamy orzo pasta and tender broccoli, all cooked together for a hearty dish.
How do I make Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
You start by seasoning and searing chicken thighs, toasting orzo in the same skillet, adding chicken broth, and broccoli, and letting it simmer until everything is tender and infused with flavor. Cheese is then stirred in for creaminess before serving.
How do I store leftovers of Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
Let your leftovers cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or skillet.
Can I customize the ingredients in Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
Absolutely! You can use different types of chicken, substitute other vegetables, or alter the cheese used to suit your taste or dietary needs.
How long does it take to make Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
The entire cooking process takes about 45 minutes, making it an efficient yet delicious meal option for weeknights.
Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Orzo and Broccoli
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Searing the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and sear the opposite side for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Orzo
- Melt the butter in the same skillet.
- Add the orzo pasta and toast for 2 to 3 minutes until it smells nutty.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Adding Broccoli and Chicken
- Add the chopped broccoli florets to the skillet.
- Return the seared chicken thighs on top of the orzo and broccoli.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
Finishing the Dish
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside again.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, along with the milk or heavy cream, additional garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and serve hot.
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