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Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cheesy Broccoli Orzo Bliss

Enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, a one-pan wonder that's perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can substitute with chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
For the Orzo
  • 1 cup dried orzo can swap in other small pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth homemade is best for flavor
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets cut into smaller pieces
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, can substitute mozzarella
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper to taste

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Remove the chicken and add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the orzo and toast it for 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the skillet and bring to a gentle boil. Return the chicken to the pan skin-side up.
  6. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for about 8 minutes.
  7. Add broccoli florets on top, cover again, and cook for another 12 minutes.
  8. Remove the chicken and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  9. Serve family-style and enjoy your delightful meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 35gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For crispy skin, preheat the skillet before adding chicken. Store leftovers separately for best texture.

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