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Delicious Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo recipe is a delicious and comforting one-pan meal featuring juicy, golden-brown chicken thighs cooked in a skillet, combined with creamy cheddar cheese-infused orzo pasta and tender broccoli florets. It’s a perfect blend of hearty protein, cheesy pasta, and fresh vegetables, making it a satisfying dinner option that’s simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Orzo and Vegetables

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken thighs.
  2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Toast the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and stir constantly, toasting it for about 2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden. This step adds a nutty flavor to the pasta.
  5. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is al dente, absorbing the broth for delicious flavor.
  6. Add Broccoli and Return Chicken: Stir the broccoli florets into the orzo. Place the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the orzo and broccoli. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and chicken is reheated thoroughly.
  7. Incorporate Cheddar Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy, cheesy orzo mixture.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve the skillet chicken thighs with broccoli cheddar orzo hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs help keep the meat juicy and flavorful while crisping the skin.
  • Be sure to watch the orzo closely when toasting to prevent burning.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content if desired.
  • Broccoli florets can be substituted with other green vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
  • For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken.
  • Leftover dish keeps well and can be reheated in the skillet or microwave.

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Find it online: https://cozycookingideas.com/skillet-chicken-thighs-with-broccoli-cheddar-orzo-an-amazing-ultimate-recipe/