Description
Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake is the ultimate comfort food packed with tender chicken, creamy orzo pasta, fresh broccoli, and layers of gooey melted cheese baked until golden and bubbly. This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, meal prep, and comforting food ideas everyone will love. With simple ingredients and rich homemade flavor, this cheesy chicken casserole delivers a hearty and satisfying meal in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Steam the broccoli florets for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly tender and bright green.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic.
5. Sprinkle flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
6. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking until smooth.
7. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
8. Stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
9. Fold the cooked orzo, chicken, and broccoli into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
10. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
11. Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese if using the topping, then sprinkle over the casserole.
12. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
13. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
Cook the orzo just until al dente because it will continue cooking while baking in the oven.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving so the creamy sauce thickens properly and the flavors settle.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: creamy chicken casserole, cheesy orzo bake, chicken broccoli pasta bake, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, baked orzo recipe, family dinner ideas