Imagine a dinner that combines crispy, golden chicken thighs, creamy cheddar-infused orzo, and perfectly tender broccoli - all prepared in a single skillet with minimal cleanup. This Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo is not just a meal, it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary weeknight cooking into a gourmet adventure. Prepare to wow your family and impress yourself with a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to brown the other side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add orzo pasta and toast lightly for 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, stirring to prevent sticking, and bring to a simmer.
- Add broccoli florets on top of the orzo, then carefully place the chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the broccoli.
- Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and orzo is tender.
- Remove skillet from oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt.
- Serve hot, ensuring each portion has a chicken thigh, broccoli, and cheesy orzo. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness on the skin.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven.
- Toast the orzo briefly before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain maximum juiciness.
- Choose a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the most robust flavor.
- Check chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley as a garnish.
- If you prefer smaller broccoli pieces, chop the florets into smaller, more uniform sizes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 324kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
