Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite one-pan meal: skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo! This dish is not just simple to whip up, but it’s packed with flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Picture tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection, nestled in a creamy, cheesy orzo that’s studded with vibrant broccoli florets. It’s a complete meal that comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home. Get ready for some happy taste buds!
Ingredients for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 skinless chicken thighs – these are tender and juicy, perfect for this recipe.
- 1 cup orzo pasta – this little pasta is like tiny rice and soaks up all the flavors!
- 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh is best for a vibrant color and crunch.
- 2 cups chicken broth – this adds depth and richness to the orzo.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – the star of the show, adding that creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for cooking the chicken and adding flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – to give the dish a lovely aromatic kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste – don’t forget to season to your liking!
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—cooking! This is where the magic happens, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Cooking the Chicken Thighs
First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. When the oil’s hot and shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F is your goal!). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Preparing the Orzo and Broccoli
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This is where all those delicious chicken flavors come together! Once boiling, stir in the orzo and broccoli florets. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
Combining Ingredients
Now for the best part! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into that creamy goodness. Then, return the chicken thighs to the skillet, allowing them to heat through and soak up all those cheesy flavors. Give it a gentle stir, and voilà! Dinner is ready!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo, here are some of my favorite tips! First, consider marinating your chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes before cooking; it adds such a depth of flavor! Using fresh broccoli is a game-changer, as it gives you that perfect crunch and vibrant color. Don’t rush the simmering step—letting the orzo soak up the broth is key to that creamy consistency. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat! Trust me, these small tweaks make a big difference!
Variations on Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
If you’re looking to switch things up with your skillet chicken thighs and broccoli cheddar orzo, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! First off, try swapping out the cheddar for a creamy gouda or a sharp parmesan for a different flavor profile. Feeling spicy? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick! You could also mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for an extra pop of color and nutrition. For a twist on texture, consider using quinoa instead of orzo—it’s a fantastic gluten-free option! The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo, it’s nice to know what you’re getting nutrition-wise! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are approximate figures:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 3g
These values give you a good idea of the hearty and satisfying nature of this dish. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Serving Suggestions
To make your skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo even more delightful, consider pairing it with a crisp side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Some garlic bread would also be a perfect touch for soaking up that creamy orzo. And don’t forget a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade to complete the meal!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo? I’ve got you covered! One common question is, “Can I use other types of chicken?” Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs work just as well, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Another question I get is, “What if I don’t have orzo?” No problem! You can substitute with rice or quinoa, just keep an eye on the cooking times. And if you’re not a fan of broccoli, feel free to swap it for other veggies like spinach or peas. Cooking should be fun and flexible, so get experimenting!
For more delicious recipes, check out this one-pan cheesy chicken broccoli and rice recipe or a creamy broccoli cheddar soup recipe!
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Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Magic
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo is a simple one-pan meal. It combines tender chicken with creamy orzo and broccoli.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and broccoli, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Return chicken to the skillet and heat through.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken thighs before cooking.
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture.
- Adjust cheese quantity based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: skillet chicken thighs, broccoli cheddar orzo, one-pan meal