Chicken and Broccoli Risoni: One-Pan Creamy Comfort with a Zingy Twist

If there’s one dish I could eat on repeat, it’s this chicken and broccoli risoni wonder. Imagine tender golden chicken, creamy lemon-kissed risoni, and pops of vibrant green broccoli—all cooked in just one pan. That’s right—less washing up, more flavour, and happy, full bellies at the end of it. 🙌 This recipe is the kind of dish that sneaks into your weekly rotation before you even realise it. It’s easy, it’s fast, and it brings together a bunch of pantry staples into something that feels kind of fancy but is totally achievable on a Wednesday night when the energy is low and the hunger is real. 💥 Whether you're after a simple chicken and broccoli recipe, a hearty one-pan meal, or something that balances indulgence with nourishment, this creamy chicken risoni is here to tick every box—and then some. 🥦🍋

June 5, 2025
Chicken and Broccoli Risoni cooked and served in dish
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Chicken and Broccoli Risoni: Why You’ll Love This

First up, let’s talk about that combination: baked chicken broccoli gets elevated when it’s paired with creamy risoni (aka orzo, for my US friends), sharp Parmesan, a splash of milk, and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Every forkful is comforting but also bright—exactly what you want in a dish that’s meant to feel cosy without being heavy.

Here’s why I can’t stop making it:

    • One pan = less mess, more yes

    • Creamy without needing cream

    • Kid-approved but sophisticated enough for grown-ups

    • Packed with veg (but doesn’t taste like a health compromise)

    • Ready in under 30 minutes!

 

It’s an easy win, whether you’re cooking for the fam, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress without breaking a sweat.

The Secret to the BEST Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Alright, let’s break down some of the tricks I’ve picked up after making this more times than I’d like to admit.

1. Go for Chicken Thighs Over Breast

Chicken thighs are juicier, harder to overcook, and bring a richer flavour to the dish. You’ll want to dust them in seasoned flour before searing—this not only helps them get a gorgeous golden crust but also thickens the sauce naturally as they simmer.

2. Use Broccoli Stems – Don’t Toss Them!

This chicken and broccoli risoni makes use of both the florets and stems. Sliced stems get sautéed with garlic and lemon slices, infusing the base of the dish with earthy, zesty goodness. The florets are layered on top to steam gently and stay bright green. 

3. Stock Powder + Milk = Magic

Rather than using cream, I add chicken stock powder, water, and milk to the pan. This combo creates a silky sauce that feels indulgent without being overly rich. A handful of Parmesan at the end? Game. Over.
 

Tips and Tricks for Maximum Flavour

    • Scrape up those pan bits! After browning the chicken, deglaze with a splash of water to lift up the golden bits stuck to the bottom. That’s pure umami flavour right there.

    • Don’t skip the lemon. Half goes in early to mellow out, the other half gets squeezed over at the end for a fresh kick.

    • Use fresh parsley. It adds brightness and balances the richness perfectly. If you don’t have it, a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh basil will do in a pinch.

    • Risoni (or orzo) cooks fast, so keep your heat medium-low and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

    • Want more veg? Stir in baby spinach or peas at the end for an extra boost.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

This Chicken and Broccoli Risoni is one-pan wonder is a full meal on its own, but if you’re feeling a little extra, here are some tasty pairings:

    • A crisp side salad with rocket, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette

    • Garlic bread or crusty sourdough to mop up that creamy sauce

    • A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

    • For dessert? Try my Lemon Yogurt Cake for a zesty finish 🍰🍋

Serve straight from the pan and let everyone dive in—family style, the way it should be!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This Chicken and Broccoli Risoni keeps like a dream, so don’t be shy about making extra.

    • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to loosen the sauce.

    • Freezer: Yes, you can freeze it! Just portion it out, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

    • Meal prep tip: Portion into lunch containers with a wedge of lemon and some extra parsley to freshen it up.

Other Chicken and Broccoli Recipes to Try

If you loved this Chicken and Broccoli Risoni, here are a few more ways to get your chicken and broccoli fix:

Chicken and Broccoli Risoni cooked with a lemon in the centre

Chicken and Broccoli Variations to Try

If you’re like me, you love a recipe that gives you room to play. While this one-pan chicken and broccoli recipe is already a star on its own, it’s also the perfect canvas for customisations. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, avoiding certain ingredients, or just want to switch things up, here are a few fun (and delicious) variations you can try:

1. Cheesy Baked Chicken Broccoli Risoni

Want to take it one step further? After stirring through the cheese and parsley, transfer everything to an oven-safe baking dish, sprinkle generously with grated mozzarella or tasty cheese, and bake at 180°C until golden and bubbling (about 10–15 mins). You’ve just turned a simple chicken and broccoli dish into a next-level baked chicken broccoli bake.

2. Add a Crunchy Topping

To give this dish some texture contrast, add a topping! Crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes mixed with olive oil and Parmesan make a crispy, golden finish. Sprinkle it over the top before serving or after a quick oven blast for that extra crunch.

3. Boost the Veggie Power

Got extra veg hanging out in the crisper? This recipe is super flexible. Try adding:

    • Sliced mushrooms

    • Baby spinach (stir it in right at the end)

    • Frozen peas or corn (toss them in with the broccoli florets)

    • Zucchini ribbons or grated carrot

This is a great way to stretch your meal and sneak in more greens for the kids without them noticing.

4. Make It Spicy

Love a kick? Add a pinch of chilli flakes with the garlic or drizzle with chilli oil before serving. A touch of heat balances the creamy texture beautifully and turns this family dinner into something with a bit of sass.

5. Swap the Protein

Not in the mood for chicken? No worries! This creamy broccoli risoni is just as tasty with:

    • Sliced sausage (especially a mild Italian-style one)
    • Leftover roast chicken (added in at the end to warm through)
    • Prawns or salmon for a seafood twist.

Make It Vegetarian

For a meat-free version, skip the chicken and start by sautéing your garlic and broccoli stems in butter or olive oil. Add sliced mushrooms or canned chickpeas for some heartiness. Then, follow the same steps—risoni, stock powder, water, milk, and broccoli florets. Stir in the cheese and parsley at the end, and voilà! A creamy, satisfying vegetarian dinner that still hits every note.

Don't Forget to Share Your Creations!

I love seeing your kitchen magic! If you whip up this chicken and broccoli creamy risoni, take a pic and tag me over on Instagram at @steph_cooks_stuff. Let’s make the dinner scroll a delicious one!

Final Thoughts: Chicken and Broccoli Never Looked So Good

Whether you searched for a chicken and broccoli recipe, were craving a warm hug in a bowl, or just wanted to clean out the crisper drawer (hello, broccoli stems!), this dish delivers. It’s one of those “make it once and crave it forever” situations.

With the perfect mix of creamy, zesty, and savoury, plus the ease of a baked broccoli and chicken vibe without needing the oven, this one-pan creamy chicken risoni is your new weeknight hero.

So next time you’re stuck in a dinner rut, remember: all you need is a pan, some chicken and broccoli, and a squeeze of lemon to bring it all to life.

Chicken and Broccoli Risoni cooked and served in dish
Steph de Sousa

Chicken and Broccoli Risoni

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ONE-PAN CREAMY CHICKEN RISONI MAGIC 🍋🥦
Craving something creamy, comforting and packed with goodness? This dreamy one-pan chicken risoni with broccoli is the ultimate weeknight dinner win. It’s got golden chicken thighs, zesty lemon, hidden greens, and a cheesy, creamy finish that’ll have everyone scraping the pan clean!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Add to Meal Plan
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Recipes
Cuisine: Australian
Calories: 574
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Video

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • ½ cup plain flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tbsp crushed garlic
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 cup risoni
  • 2 tbsp chicken stock powder
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 head of broccoli chopped (keep stems and heads separate)
  • ½ bunch parsley
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Season your flour with salt and pepper, then coat your chicken thighs.
  2. Heat some oil in a large pan and fry the chicken until golden on both sides. Take it out and set it aside.
  3. Add the broccoli stems, garlic, and half the lemon (sliced) to the same pan.
  4. If there’s lots of golden goodness stuck on the bottom, add ½ cup of water and give it a good scrape – flavour gold!
  5. Now add your risoni, chicken stock powder, water and milk. Stir it all together.
  6. Layer the broccoli florets on top, then pop the chicken back in.
  7. Cover with a lid and simmer on medium-low for 10 minutes.
  8. Remove the chicken again, stir through chopped parsley and Parmesan until creamy and silky.
  9. Add the chicken back on top, squeeze over the other half of the lemon, and serve!

Nutrition

Calories: 574kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 34gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 123mgSodium: 867mgPotassium: 963mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1199IUVitamin C: 151mgCalcium: 259mgIron: 3mg

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