Description

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is a delicious one-pan meal combining juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with tender orzo pasta, fresh broccoli florets, and creamy melted cheddar cheese. The chicken is seared to a golden crisp, the orzo toasted and simmered in rich chicken broth, and broccoli added for a fresh, nutritious touch. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this flavorful dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Pasta and Vegetables

1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets

Liquids and Cheese

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Other Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering, preparing it for searing the chicken.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Sear the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Then, flip the chicken and cook another 6-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta. Stir constantly and toast it for about 2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden, bringing out a nutty flavor.
Add Chicken Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender but still al dente.
Add Broccoli and Return Chicken: Stir in the broccoli florets and nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover again and cook an additional 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is heated through.
Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy texture throughout the orzo and broccoli.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, then serve the dish hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Notes

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide more flavor and juiciness compared to boneless.
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular orzo with a gluten-free pasta variety.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt and pepper, depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth.
Use fresh broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor; frozen can be used but may be softer after cooking.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.