Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake is a cozy, family-friendly casserole made with tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and hearty orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner!
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Large Pot
- Whisk
- 9x13-inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts grilled and sliced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Step 2: Cook orzo in salted boiling water for 8–9 minutes until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, broccoli, sliced chicken, and cheese sauce. Stir until fully combined.
- Step 6: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with additional cheese if desired.
- Step 7: Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Want to save time? Use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling. You can also add cooked mushrooms or swap in cauliflower for a veggie twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 36gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 420mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 320mgIron: 2mg