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Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
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
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add olive oil to the skillet and place the chicken skin-side down. Brown for 4-5 minutes, then flip and brown other side.
  3. 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.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. 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.
  6. Layer broccoli on top of chicken and orzo. Cover and cook for another 12 minutes.
  7. 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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