This recipe for Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo brings together crispy, flavorful chicken thighs with a creamy, cheesy orzo dish that’s loaded with tender broccoli florets. It’s a comforting, one-pan meal that’s easy to make on busy weeknights yet impressive enough for a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken Thighs
- Season the chicken thighs: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to get under the skin for extra flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Sear for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side.
- Finish cooking: Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it in the butter and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the broccoli: When the orzo is nearly done cooking (about 5 minutes before it’s finished), stir in the chopped broccoli florets. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam and cook through, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cheeses and cream: Once the orzo and broccoli are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream (or whole milk). Mix well until the cheese is melted and the orzo is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Serve
- Combine: Nestle the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the cheesy orzo and broccoli mixture. Spoon some of the orzo and sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!
Cooking Notes
- Chicken crispiness: For ultra-crispy skin, make sure the chicken thighs are patted dry before seasoning and avoid moving them in the skillet while they’re searing.
- Broccoli options: If you prefer a more tender broccoli texture, steam or blanch the broccoli florets before adding them to the orzo.
- Cheese substitution: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a twist on the classic cheddar flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Thighs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken thighs and add more vegetables to the orzo, such as sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers, for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Whole Grain Orzo: Substitute regular orzo with whole grain orzo for a healthier option
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will cook faster than bone-in ones. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, then finish cooking them in the skillet for about 8-10 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the orzo and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While the chicken thighs freeze well, the cheesy orzo may change texture when frozen due to the dairy content. If you want to freeze leftovers, store the chicken thighs separately and prepare fresh orzo when ready to serve.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is the ultimate comfort meal with tender chicken thighs and creamy, cheesy orzo. The one-pan method ensures easy cleanup and a hassle-free dinner that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious, wholesome dinner!
