Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bliss

Enjoy the savory Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo, a quick and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy nights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Can substitute with boneless thighs.
2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with canola or avocado oil.

For the Orzo

1 cup dried orzo Can swap with rice or quinoa for gluten-free.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
1 medium yellow onion, diced Shallots can be used for milder taste.
2 cloves garlic, minced Can substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove).

For the Veggies

2 cups broccoli florets Frozen broccoli can work but adjust cooking time.

For the Creaminess

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Can try mozzarella for a milder taste.

For Seasoning

to taste kosher salt
to taste freshly ground pepper

Equipment

large skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the chicken thighs dry, season with salt and pepper, and let sit.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in orzo and toast for 3-4 minutes; then add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth, deglazing the pan. Bring to a gentle boil for 2-3 minutes.
Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on medium-low for about 8 minutes.
Layer in broccoli florets, cover, and cook for 12 more minutes until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
Remove chicken, stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep skin crispy.

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