SKILLET CHICKEN THIGHS WITH BROCCOLI CHEDDAR ORZO

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal. Juicy, golden-browned chicken thighs are cooked alongside tender orzo pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce packed with broccoli. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests—plus, cleanup is a breeze!

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken

4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

1½ cups orzo pasta
2½ cups chicken broth (plus more if needed)
2 cups small broccoli florets
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup milk or half-and-half
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or Dijon mustard for extra flavor

🔄 Substitutions

Chicken thighs: Use chicken breasts or bone-in thighs (adjust cook time)
Orzo: Swap with small pasta like ditalini or couscous
Cheese: Use Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses
Milk: Use cream for a richer sauce or almond milk for a lighter version
Broccoli: Use frozen broccoli (thawed) or swap with spinach or peas

👨‍🍳 How to Make

1. Season & Sear the Chicken
Pat chicken dry and season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Sear chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp). Remove from skillet and set aside

2. Cook the Orzo
In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in orzo and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and stir in broccoli
Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed

3. Add Cheese & Finish
Reduce heat to low. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy
Season with salt, pepper, and optional Dijon or chili flakes to taste
Return chicken thighs to the skillet and nestle them into the orzo. Heat through for 2–3 minutes
Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired

🧄 Mix-ins & Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms or onions
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish
Stir in a spoonful of CREAM CHEESE for extra creaminess
Add chopped bacon or pancetta for a smoky twist

✅ Recipe Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt
Keep broth handy—add a splash if the orzo thickens too much
Sear chicken until deeply golden for maximum flavor
Cut broccoli small so it cooks evenly with the orzo

📦 Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Not ideal due to creamy sauce and pasta texture
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce

❓ FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Just skip the searing step and stir it in near the end to heat through

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s cheesy, creamy, and mild in flavor. Just omit any heat if needed

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and use veggie broth. Add extra veggies or plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu

What if I don’t have orzo?
Use small pasta like rice-shaped pasta, ditalini, or even rice—just adjust the liquid and cook time

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is your new favorite one-pan wonder.