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Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with **Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo**! This one-pan dish delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs paired with creamy, cheesy orzo packed with tender broccoli.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • #### **For the Chicken**
  • - 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • - 1 teaspoon salt
  • - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • #### **For the Broccoli Cheddar Orzo**
  • - 1 tablespoon butter
  • - 1 small onion finely diced
  • - 2 cloves garlic minced
  • - 1 cup orzo pasta
  • - 2 cups chicken broth
  • - 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • - 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter version
  • - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • - 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • - Large skillet (oven-safe if finishing in the oven)
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Cutting board & knife

Method
 

  1. #### **Step 1: Sear the Chicken**
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Place chicken skin-side down and sear for **5-6 minutes** until golden brown.
  5. Flip and cook for another **3 minutes**, then remove and set aside (chicken will finish cooking later).
  6. #### **Step 2: Cook the Orzo**
  7. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, and sauté onion for **2-3 minutes** until soft.
  8. Stir in garlic and cook for **30 seconds**.
  9. Add orzo and toast for **1 minute**, stirring frequently.
  10. #### **Step 3: Simmer & Finish the Dish**
  11. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and add broccoli florets.
  12. Nestle chicken thighs back into the skillet, cover, and let simmer for **15 minutes** until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
  13. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until smooth.
  14. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot!