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Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

One-Pan Skillet Chicken Thighs with Cheesy Broccoli Orzo

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe offers a flavorful blend of juicy chicken and creamy orzo for weeknight cooking.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
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 Provides rich flavor and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground pepper
For the Orzo
  • 4 tablespoons Olive oil Can substitute with vegetable oil or butter
  • 0.5 cup Yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh garlic is preferred
  • 8 oz Dried orzo Small pasta shapes may be used as a substitute
  • 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth Homemade broth can elevate the dish
For the Vegetables and Cheese
  • 1 pound Broccoli florets Provides nutrition and texture
  • 1.5 cups Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Feel free to swap with mozzarella or gouda

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and brown the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes.
  3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes, then set aside.
  4. Add remaining olive oil to the skillet, sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the orzo and toast for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  6. Deglaze with chicken broth, bring to a boil, add chicken back to the skillet, cover, and simmer for about 8 minutes.
  7. Layer the broccoli over the chicken and orzo, cover, and cook for another 12 minutes.
  8. Remove chicken, stir in cheese until melted, and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, ensure chicken is patted dry before seasoning for crispy skin.

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