Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli and Orzo Casserole

This casserole will please even the pickiest of eaters. Tender orzo pasta, golden brown chicken, and cheddar cheese. I added broccoli because I think it partners perfectly with cheddar - but you can add green peas too. 

Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli and Orzo Casserole

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut up
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, preferably salt-free
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 
Cook the orzo according to the package directions, adding the broccoli for the last 30 seconds of cooking. Drain and return to the pot. 
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Add the Italian seasoning, salt and pepper and stir to coat. Add the chicken to the orzo mixture with the milk and 1/2 cup of the cheese. Mix well. 
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5 to 10 more minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.

Serves 4