This easy Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is made with tender, seasoned chicken breast, broccoli, carrots, and orzo pasta tossed in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

crockpot broccoli cheddar chicken orzo cover

If you're looking for an easy, comforting dinner that the whole family will love, this Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is it! It's creamy, cheesy, loaded with flavor, and made with simple ingredients.

The slow cooker does most of the work, making this a great recipe for busy weeknights. Serve it on its own for a complete meal or pair it with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious cheese sauce.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT

Easy To Make: The crockpot does most of the cooking, so there's very little hands-on work.
Family-Friendly: Tender chicken, pasta, broccoli, and plenty of cheddar cheese make this a dinner everyone can enjoy.
Full Of Flavor: The chicken is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika before being slow-cooked.
Comfort Food: Everything comes together in a creamy, cheesy sauce that's perfect for a cozy dinner.

INGREDIENTS

You can find the full ingredients list with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are cut into bite-sized pieces and make this dish hearty and filling.
Salt and Pepper: Enhance the flavors of the chicken and the creamy cheese sauce.
Garlic Powder: Adds a delicious, savory garlic flavor to the chicken.
Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory flavor as it cooks.
Carrots: Bring a little sweetness, color, and texture to the dish.
Chicken Broth: Keeps the chicken moist while adding flavor and providing liquid for the orzo.
Broccoli: Adds color, texture, and a vegetable to this hearty meal.
Orzo: This small, rice-shaped pasta makes the dish extra comforting and helps absorb the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, smooth, creamy consistency.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce for that classic broccoli cheddar flavor.

HOW TO MAKE IT

Here's how to make this amazing recipe. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.

Cut the chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Add the seasoned chicken to the crockpot along with the diced onion, shredded carrots, and chicken broth. Stir everything together. Cover and cook on LOW for about 3–4 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

diced chicken breast added to the crockpot with shredded carrot, onion and chicken broth

Stir in the uncooked orzo, broccoli heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder as needed. Let everything sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving. Enjoy!

broccoli, cheddar, orzo and cream added to the crockpot to finish cooking

PRO TIPS

Cut The Chicken Evenly: Keeping the chicken pieces about the same size helps them cook evenly.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly than packaged shredded cheese.
Keep An Eye On The Orzo: Orzo cooks relatively quickly and can become mushy if left in the crockpot too long.
Adjust The Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a little warm chicken broth until it's as creamy as you'd like.
Use Fresh Or Frozen Broccoli: Both work well, but frozen broccoli may cook a little faster and release additional moisture.

VARIATIONS

Different Cheeses: Try sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Add Some Heat: Sprinkle in a little crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Extra Vegetables: Add peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers for more color and flavor.
Use Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts.
Make It Extra Creamy: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of softened cream cheese with the cheddar.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH IT

This Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Orzo is hearty enough to serve all on its own. However, it also goes great with garlic bread, dinner rolls or a simple side salad.

STORAGE & REHEATING

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce because the orzo will absorb liquid as it sits.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. However, the pasta may become softer and the cream sauce may separate slightly when thawed. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

OTHER EASY CROCKPOT MEALS

I Just love a good set it and forget it recipe! I've rounded up all my Best Crockpot Meals so you can find them easily in one place. I highly recommend my Crockpot Beef & Noodles. Its a hit across the internet!

ALL MY BEST CROCKPOT RECIPES