Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a crowd-pleasing dish that offers a balance of protein, veggies, and creamy goodness all in one skillet. The crispy chicken thighs are packed with flavor and are paired beautifully with tender orzo that’s infused with the savory taste of chicken broth and sharp cheddar cheese. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch while soaking up all the rich flavors. Plus, with just one pan to clean, this recipe is both easy and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4 large thighs, approximately 1/2 pound each)
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz dried orzo (1/2 of a 16 oz package)
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound broccoli florets, large florets quartered, medium florets halved
1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot oil and brown them for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the skin is crispy and golden. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point.
Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the broth to a boil.
Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 8 minutes.
After 8 minutes, add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken and orzo. Cover again and continue cooking for an additional 12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the broccoli is tender.
Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and stir the orzo and broccoli together. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap the sharp cheddar cheese for other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a mix of parmesan and cheddar.
Vegetables: Add additional vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the orzo for extra color and nutrients.
Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb variation, replace the orzo with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if the orzo has absorbed too much liquid to keep it creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but they will cook faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Frozen broccoli can work, but fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture. If using frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the chicken thighs and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

4. What can I substitute for orzo?

You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or even couscous.

5. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even water in place of chicken broth, but chicken broth gives the dish a richer flavor.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative to replace the sharp cheddar and omit the butter or cream if you prefer.

7. How can I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.

8. Can I add more cheese to the dish?

Absolutely! If you love cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheese to the orzo or sprinkle some on top before serving.

9. What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Serve this dish with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

While freezing is possible, the texture of the orzo may change after freezing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a one-pan wonder that combines crispy chicken, creamy orzo, and tender broccoli into a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable with various ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!