The Perfect Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

Skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo elevate an ordinary dinner into a culinary adventure waiting to happen.

Hearty protein meets creamy pasta in a single-pan masterpiece that speaks to comfort and convenience.

Vibrant green florets bring a fresh crunch to this rich, cheesy landscape of flavors.

Weeknight cooking becomes an effortless dance of technique and taste, blending simplicity with satisfaction.

Each forkful promises a harmonious blend of textures that dance across your palate with delightful complexity.

The magic of this dish lies in its ability to deliver maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.

Your family will be asking for seconds before the first plates are cleared.

How to Make Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Pat chicken thighs dry and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Brown Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down, browning for 4-5 minutes on each side until crispy and golden. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

In the same skillet, add another olive oil and sauté diced onion until softened.

Step 4: Toast Orzo

Stir in orzo, toasting for 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Mix in minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 6: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then return chicken thighs to the pan.

Step 7: Initial Cooking

Lower heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 8 minutes.

Step 8: Add Broccoli

Layer broccoli florets on top of chicken and orzo. Cover and cook for an additional 12 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and broccoli is tender.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Remove chicken thighs. Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the orzo-broccoli mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

• Perfectly Crisp Chicken Skin: Pat chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and beautiful golden-brown color.
• Prevent Orzo Sticking: Toast orzo carefully in olive oil, stirring constantly to develop nutty flavor and prevent burning or clumping.
• Enhance Cheese Melting: Remove skillet from heat when adding cheddar cheese to prevent separation and create smooth, creamy texture.
• Check Chicken Doneness: Use meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results every time.
• Maximize Flavor Depth: Deglaze pan thoroughly to incorporate all delicious browned bits, adding rich complexity to the entire dish.

Storing and Reheating Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken thighs and orzo in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the chicken and orzo separate to maintain their individual textures.
• Microwave Reheating: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring the orzo midway to distribute heat evenly.
• Stovetop Revival: Warm the chicken and orzo in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture, gently stirring the orzo to prevent sticking.

Pairing Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo with Sides

• Boost Wine Pairing: Select a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the rich chicken and creamy cheddar, cutting through the dish's richness with bright acidity.
• Match Herb-Infused Side: Serve a fresh herb salad with arugula, parsley, and lemon vinaigrette to provide a zesty contrast against the warm, cheesy orzo and tender chicken.
• Elevate Bread Companion: Add crusty sourdough or rosemary focaccia to soak up the delicious pan juices and provide a crunchy texture that balances the soft orzo and chicken.
• Enhance Beverage Choice: Try a light amber beer or wheat ale that offers subtle maltiness to harmonize with the dish's savory notes without overwhelming the delicate chicken and broccoli flavors.

Variations of Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

• Mediterranean Makeover: Swap chicken thighs for lamb, replace cheddar with feta cheese, and add kalamata olives and fresh oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Edition: Use chili-rubbed chicken thighs, substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese, mix in diced jalapeños, and sprinkle with cilantro for a zesty kick.
• Creamy Mushroom Fusion: Replace broccoli with wild mushroom mix, incorporate cream cheese alongside cheddar, and add fresh thyme for an earthy, rich variation that transforms the original recipe into a more indulgent meal.
• Herb Garden Remix: Select bone-in chicken thighs, infuse orzo with fresh basil and parsley, use goat cheese instead of cheddar, and garnish with lemon zest for a bright, herbaceous version that feels light and fresh.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

• Create Crispy Chicken Magic: Achieve restaurant-quality golden-brown chicken thighs that crackle with perfectly seasoned skin, delivering maximum flavor in every single bite.
• Craft One-Pan Comfort: Simplify your cooking process by using a single skillet that transforms basic ingredients into a deliciously hearty meal, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
• Elevate Weeknight Nutrition: Combine protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and cheesy orzo for a balanced meal that satisfies hunger and provides essential nutrients in under 40 minutes of total cooking time.

Essential Ingredients for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

• Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful cut with crispy skin, perfect for one-pan meals and providing rich protein.
• Chicken Broth: Foundational liquid that adds depth of flavor and helps cook orzo and chicken evenly.

• Onion: Aromatic base that adds sweetness and depth to the dishs overall flavor profile.
• Broccoli Florets: Nutritious green vegetable that provides texture and adds vibrant color to the meal.
• Garlic: Pungent ingredient that enhances the overall flavor complexity of the dish.

• Orzo: Small pasta shape that creates a creamy, risotto-like texture in the dish.
• Olive Oil: Helps with sautéing and adds a subtle fruity undertone to the cooking process.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that provides richness and tangy flavor to the orzo mixture.
• Kosher Salt: Essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground spice that adds subtle heat and complements the chicken and cheese.

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo delivers comfort and flavor in one satisfying pan. Crispy chicken nestles alongside creamy orzo, creating a hearty meal that promises quick preparation and maximum deliciousness for hungry diners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 pound (454 grams) broccoli florets
• 0.5 cup (75 grams) yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Grains, Cheese, and Liquids:

• 8 ounces (227 grams) dried orzo
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) low-sodium chicken broth
• 1.5 cups (170 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) olive oil, divided
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare chicken thighs by thoroughly patting them dry and generously seasoning both surfaces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling surface for chicken.
3. Carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down into hot oil, allowing them to develop a crispy golden exterior for 4-5 minutes on each side; the meat does not need complete cooking at this stage.
4. Transfer partially cooked chicken thighs to a separate plate, reserving them for later incorporation.
5. In the identical skillet, introduce an additional olive oil and gently sauté diced onions until they become translucent and slightly softened.
6. Introduce orzo to the skillet, carefully toasting the grains for 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat to enhance their nutty flavor profile.
7. Add finely minced garlic to the orzo mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
8. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, using a silicone spatula to deglaze and lift any caramelized bits from the pan’s bottom.
9. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then carefully reintroduce chicken thighs to the skillet.
10. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and allow everything to simmer harmoniously for approximately 8 minutes.
11. Strategically arrange broccoli florets atop the chicken and orzo, then re-cover the skillet.
12. Continue cooking for an additional 12 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and broccoli becomes tender yet vibrant.
13. Remove chicken thighs from the skillet and set aside momentarily.
14. Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese into the orzo-broccoli mixture, stirring until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy texture.
15. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed, then serve the dish warm and inviting.

Notes

• Customize chicken seasoning by experimenting with different herb blends for a unique flavor profile.
• Ensure crispy skin by patting chicken completely dry before adding to hot skillet, preventing steaming.
• Toasting orzo beforehand intensifies its nutty flavor and adds depth to the overall dish.
• Check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfect doneness every time.
• Opt for freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for superior melting and richer taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg