Savory Comfort in a Bowl

Ever had a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day? Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is that dish! This creamy, one-pan wonder comes together in no time and packs a flavorful punch that’s hard to resist. With tender orzo swimming in savory chicken broth and mouthwatering sausage, you’ll be dreaming about this recipe even after dinner is done. Who knew comfort food could be so easy yet so satisfying?

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up this delightful dish, and I’m here for it!

Easy Cleanup: Let’s be real, no one wants a mountain of dishes after a relaxing dinner. With just one pot, you’ll be enjoying your meal without fretting about the kitchen chaos afterward.
Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta, and they won’t even notice the broccoli — sneaky, right? This recipe certainly hits the "everyone is happy" mark!
Quick and Affordable: Who said delicious has to be expensive? You can whip this up in about 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time for other life essentials, like catching up on your favorite shows.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

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)

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to culinary bliss:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
Toss in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
Add orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving (optional).

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo (Overview)

Here’s the scoop! Cooking this dish is almost as fun as eating it. Start by browning that delicious chicken sausage in a bit of olive oil — the sizzle is music to your ears! Once it’s golden, you just toss in the garlic and broccoli to get those fresh aromas wafting through your kitchen. Then, add orzo and broth; just let them mingle until perfectly cooked. Seriously, don’t skip toasting the garlic! It’s the secret to that finger-licking taste.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Picture this: a warm bowl filled with creamy orzo, bright green broccoli specks, and savory sausage glistening under a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s not just a meal; it’s a feast for the eyes! Pair it with some crusty bread to soak up every last drop, or even top it with extra cheese for those days when you need a little more cheesy goodness in your life.

How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3–4 days, so feel free to make a big batch. If you want to stash it for later, pop it in the freezer, where it’ll stay good for about 2-3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it nice and creamy — because nobody likes dry orzo!

Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Here are some quick tricks to elevate your cooking game:

Timing is Everything: Add your broccoli a bit later if you like it crisper.
Stock It Up: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Substitute: Feel free to swap chicken sausage with turkey or even veggie sausage for a lighter twist.

Variation

Want to switch things up? Try adding different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added crunch and color. For a vegan version, replace sausage with marinated tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of flavor!

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How do I make this ahead of time?
Prep everything up to the cooking step, then store until you’re ready to sauté.

Can I freeze Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Yes! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!