If you’re looking for a comforting, one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken thighs, cheesy orzo, and healthy broccoli, this Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is the perfect choice! With minimal prep and just one skillet to clean, this dish is packed with flavor and makes for an easy yet delicious dinner the whole family will love.

The chicken thighs are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the creamy broccoli cheddar orzo brings a comforting, cheesy richness to the dish. Ready in under 40 minutes, this skillet recipe is a weeknight winner!

Why You’ll Love Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

– One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making clean-up quick and easy.
– Flavorful: The combination of garlic, cheese, and fresh herbs infuses both the chicken and orzo with delicious flavors.
– Comforting & Creamy: The creamy broccoli cheddar orzo is the perfect side dish to accompany the crispy chicken thighs.
– Quick & Easy: With just 30-40 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings.
– Kid-Friendly: With cheese, chicken, and pasta, this dish is perfect for the whole family, including picky eaters!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Thighs:

– 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– ½ tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo:

– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions

– Chicken Thighs: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts if preferred.
– Broccoli: Swap the broccoli for cauliflower, spinach, or peas if desired.
– Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version of the sauce.
– Cheese: While sharp cheddar is best for flavor, you can use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or gouda.
– Orzo: If you don’t have orzo, you can substitute with small pasta shapes like penne or elbow macaroni.

How to Make Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Thighs

1. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.

3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

1. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the orzo and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

3. Add the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the cheesy orzo and broccoli mixture.

2. Cover the skillet and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the chicken to reheat and absorb the flavors.

3. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese, if desired, and serve hot.

Mix-ins & Add-ons

– Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the orzo for extra flavor and nutrients.
– Bacon: Crumbled bacon makes a great topping for this dish, adding a savory crunch.
– Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.

Tips for the Perfect Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

– Crispy Skin: Make sure to cook the chicken skin-side down until it’s crispy. Don’t rush this step to get the perfect texture.
– Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. If it gets too soft, it can become mushy.
– Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
– Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating

– Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and orzo together for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to let it cool before freezing.
– Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added chicken broth or milk to restore the creamy texture.

Recipe Variations

– Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the chicken marinade for a zesty twist.
– Spicy Chicken: Sprinkle some chili powder, cayenne, or smoked paprika over the chicken thighs before cooking for a spicy kick.
– Herb Chicken: For a fresh flavor, add fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the chicken seasoning.

FAQs – Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well for this dish. Just adjust the cooking time as boneless chicken cooks faster.

Q: Can I make the orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the orzo and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding the chicken. Just reheat and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute the orzo with a gluten-free pasta like rice pasta or gluten-free penne, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli will work as well. Just add it to the pan during the last 5 minutes of orzo cooking to ensure it cooks through.

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is a complete, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and loved by everyone. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish delivers both comfort and nutrition in every bite. Enjoy!’