As I stirred the creamy orzo, the delightful aroma of sautéed garlic and tender broccoli filled my kitchen, reminding me of the simple joys of home cooking. This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe brings together juicy chicken, rich flavors, and comforting textures—all in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, it’s both budget-friendly and utterly satisfying. You’ll love how quickly this meal comes together while being a crowd-pleaser for all ages. So, are you ready to create a hearty dinner that will have your loved ones asking for seconds?

Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan meal requires minimal effort, perfect for busy evenings.

Rich, Savory Flavor: Juicy chicken thighs combined with creamy broccoli cheddar orzo create a delightful taste explosion.

Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners.

Versatile Ingredients: Swap chicken thighs for breasts or add greens like spinach to suit your taste.

Quick Cleanup: With everything cooked in one skillet, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal! Enjoy more delicious one-pot options like Hawaiian Chicken Sheet and Chicken Sauce Gochujang.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and moisture; can be substituted with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken; adjust to taste.
• Freshly ground pepper – Adds a nice kick and depth to the seasoning.

For the Base
• Olive oil – Perfect for searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables; avocado oil can be used for a different flavor.
• Yellow onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the dish; shallots work well as a milder alternative.
• Garlic – Adds an aromatic punch; always opt for fresh, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.

For the Orzo Mixture
• Dried orzo – Serves as the hearty base that absorbs all the delicious flavors; other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini are good substitutes.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor without the excess sodium; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative.

For the Veggies
• Broccoli florets – Brings nutrition and a fresh crunch; consider swapping with green beans or peas for variety, but note that cooking times may differ.

For the Creaminess
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Imparts creaminess and rich cheese flavor to the orzo; feel free to substitute with mild cheddar or other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a different twist.

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is uncomplicated yet packed with delicious flavors, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort and nostalgia in their meals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry using paper towels, then generously season them with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. This enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, ensuring it’s delightful. Preheat your large skillet over medium-high heat for a few minutes until hot, ready for searing.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the surface. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and brown them for about 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the thighs and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Toast the Orzo
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Then, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Next, add the dried orzo, stirring it to toast lightly for an additional 3-4 minutes until it begins to turn golden. This step adds a rich layer of flavor to the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo.

Step 4: Add Garlic for Aroma
Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes, while stirring continuously to prevent burning. You’ll notice a delightful aroma fill your kitchen as the garlic becomes fragrant, adding depth to the dish. This step is essential for enhancing the overall taste of your chicken and orzo mixture.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the skillet and scrape up those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 8 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through fully.

Step 6: Layer the Broccoli
After 8 minutes of simmering, carefully layer the broccoli florets on top of the chicken and orzo, ensuring even coverage. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F while the broccoli becomes tender yet bright green.

Step 7: Final Touches Before Serving
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside. Stir the orzo and broccoli mixture vigorously, incorporating the sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, ensuring each bite of your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is deliciously rich and satisfying.

Expert Tips for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juiciness and flavor.
Watch the Broccoli: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the broccoli; it should remain bright green and tender, not mushy, to enhance the visual appeal.
Meat Thermometer Use: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked without drying out.
Customize Your Cheddar: While sharp cheddar is delightful, don’t hesitate to experiment with mild cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like gouda to add unique flavors to your Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo.
Adjust Seasoning Liberally: Taste the orzo mixture before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference, elevating the dish to your personal flavor profile.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe to make it your own – each new twist brings delightful surprises!

Lean Option: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or turkey thighs for a healthier approach. These cuts will still stay juicy but have a different flavor profile.
Greens Galore: Add fresh spinach or kale to boost the nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant splash of color and flavor.
Cheese Boost: Experiment by using gouda or mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, milder flavor. This can create a whole new dimension in your orzo.
Pasta Twist: Switch out the orzo for acini di pepe or ditalini pasta. Each pasta shape offers a unique bite, enhancing your family dinner experience.
Heat It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick! This can transform the dish into a peppery delight that will have everyone reaching for more.
Herb Infusion: Add thyme, rosemary, or parsley during cooking for an aromatic herby twist that will elevate the overall taste profile. Fresh herbs can make all the difference, bringing a garden-fresh taste to your table.
Veggie Swaps: If broccoli isn’t your favorite, try green beans or peas for a different crunch. Just keep in mind their cooking times may vary.
One-Pan Wonder: For a true one-pot meal experience, throw in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to make it a colorful, hearty feast everyone will enjoy.

Looking for more comforting recipes? Try out my delicious Chicken Scampi Garlic or the satisfying BBQ Chicken Skewer for varied family dinners!

How to Store and Freeze Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish has cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat chicken in an air fryer for crispiness or warm the orzo gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to retain creaminess when serving.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen meal, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Elevate your meal experience by adding delightful sides that complement every element of this creamy one-pan dish.

Garlic Bread: Every bite is a dream when paired with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the orzo and chicken beautifully. Consider adding tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Roasted Vegetables: Offer a medley of roasted carrots and bell peppers that bring sweetness and textural contrast, enhancing your plate visually and gastronomically.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, making your dinner feel elegant while remaining healthy.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These sweet, caramelized bites provide a pleasant contrast to the savory depth of the chicken and creamy orzo.
Apple Pie: Finish the meal with a comforting slice of apple pie; its warm, spiced notes make everyone feel at home, perfect for family gatherings.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of buttery Chardonnay complements the dish, enhancing the creaminess of the orzo and the savory chicken.

Choose any combination to create a well-rounded dinner that not only satisfies but delights!

Make Ahead Options

These Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken thighs by seasoning and browning them up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate them after searing. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and toast the orzo, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the mixtures before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and orzo mix, add the broccoli and broth, and let everything simmer on the stove until heated through, ensuring your family enjoys a meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bright green broccoli florets that are firm and free from dark spots or yellowing. Fresh broccoli should have tightly closed buds and a crisp texture for the best flavor and nutrition.

How should I store leftovers from the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing to maintain optimal freshness and flavor retention.

Can I freeze this dish? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo! To do this, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all as much air as possible is removed. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What if I accidentally overcook the broccoli?
Very easy to do! If you find your broccoli gets mushy, keep an eye on cooking times next go around. Aim for a bright green color and tender texture. Remember, it should still have a slight crunch, so perhaps test a piece at the 10-minute mark of cooking!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of, such as allergies?
Great question! This recipe includes ingredients like chicken, cheddar cheese, and gluten from the orzo. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute the orzo with gluten-free pasta. Always double-check labels for any potential allergens and feel free to customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bliss

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is a one-pan delight, combining rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

For the Base

2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
1 medium yellow onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced

For the Orzo Mixture

1 cup dried orzo or swap with other small pasta shapes
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth

For the Veggies

2 cups broccoli florets

For the Creaminess

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

large skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add olive oil to the skillet and place the chicken skin-side down. Brown for 4-5 minutes, then flip and brown other side.
Remove chicken from skillet. In the same skillet, add remaining oil, sauté the onion until translucent, then add orzo and toast for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up the bits. Bring to a boil, then add chicken back in. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8 minutes.
Layer broccoli on top of chicken and orzo. Cover and cook for another 12 minutes.
Remove chicken, stir in cheddar cheese until melted, adjust seasoning, then serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Expert tips include resting the chicken after cooking and customizing cheese types for unique flavors.

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