Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. I’ve made it countless times, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. This one-pot wonder combines the savory notes of chicken sausage with vibrant broccoli, all entwined with tender orzo pasta. Not only is it delicious, but it also packs in a ton of flavor without a fuss. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you need a quick meal that satisfies everyone at the dinner table.
Why you’ll love this dish
When life gets hectic, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo comes to the rescue. It’s a one-pot meal that’s not only quick to make — ready in about 30 minutes — but also budget-friendly. The combination of protein, veggies, and carbs makes it a complete dish that’s perfect for families, and it doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables to your meals without anyone complaining.
“This is my go-to recipe for a last-minute dinner! It’s not only simple but so satisfying!”
How this recipe comes together
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can create a wholesome meal that feels almost gourmet. You’ll start by sizzling the sausage to get those delicious flavors going. Then, it’s all about adding the garlic and broccoli before tossing in the orzo and broth to create a rich, savory base. In just over ten minutes, you’ll simmer everything together, allowing the orzo to soak up the flavors, culminating in a creamy, comforting dish that’s irresistible.
What you’ll need
To make this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Feel free to substitute your favorite sausage or veggies based on what you have on hand — the recipe is flexible!
Directions to follow
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For a creamier version, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream just before serving (optional).
Best ways to enjoy it
For an eye-catching presentation, consider serving your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in shallow bowls. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top can add a pop of color. Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. For a more robust dining experience, a glass of white wine complements the flavors excellently.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to regain its creamy consistency. Alternatively, it can be frozen for up to 3 months if stored properly in a freezer-safe container.
Helpful cooking tips
Remember, to really enhance the flavor of your orzo, allow it to absorb the chicken broth fully. Keeping the pot covered while cooking helps retain moisture. Additionally, if you want to elevate the dish further, consider browning the sausage a little longer for deeper flavor or experimenting with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Creative twists
Get creative by adding your favorite ingredients! Want a spicier kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or sauté chopped bell peppers with the sausage. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken sausage for lentils or chickpeas. You can also experiment with different cheeses; feta cheese or fresh mozzarella would bring a delightful twist to the traditional recipe.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Prep time is minimal, around 10 minutes, with cook time adding approximately 15-20 minutes more, making this a quick meal overall.
Can I substitute the orzo with another pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is delightful, you can use any small pasta like ditalini or even rice as an alternative.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using turkey sausage and adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added fiber and nutrients.
With these insights and instructions, you’ll find that making Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is not just easy, but it can become a cherished staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful meal that follows!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced Feel free to substitute your favorite sausage.
- 2 cups broccoli florets You can substitute with other veggies.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth Can use low-sodium broth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For added creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- For a creamier version, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream just before serving (optional).
