Step 1

Heat a large skillet with sides over medium/high heat and add the olive oil to the skillet. When the olive oil is fragrant, add the onion. Season the onion with ⅛ teaspoon of the salt and saute for 3 minutes.

Step 2

Add the garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 1 minute before adding orzo to the skillet. Toss the orzo with the onion and garlic and toast the orzo for 3-4 minutes or until it begins to turn a golden brown. Be sure to move the orzo around with a spatula pretty consistently.

Step 3

Next, add the remaining salt, chives, black pepper, broth, milk and hot sauce to the skillet and stir. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil and then turn the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the orzo simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Uncover the skillet and add the chopped broccoli. Gently toss the broccoli with the orzo and cover the skillet again. Let the ingredients simmer together for another 3-4 minutes or until most of the liquid is absorbed in the skillet.

Step 5

Uncover the skillet and remove it from the heat. Add the cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir the cheese into the orzo until it melts.

Step 6

Serve the orzo immediately with freshly cracked pepper and enjoy.