Ready for a cozy dinner that warms your belly and your heart?
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is simply irresistible. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy orzo mingles with the savory chicken sausage and bright broccoli, creating a dish that’s not just delicious but also wholesome. Who wouldn’t want that?
Why Make This Recipe
Why bother with takeout when you can whip up this tasty meal at home? Here are a couple of reasons you’ll fall in love with it:
- Easy Cleanup: One pan means fewer dishes. 🙌 You can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will gobble this up, making it a hit for mealtime. Plus, it’s healthy enough to feel good about serving.
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
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Toss in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook 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)
Making this dish is easier than you think! Start by sautéing the chicken sausage until it’s beautifully browned. Don’t skip that step – the flavor is everything! Next, soften the garlic and broccoli to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Then, add the orzo and broth, let it simmer, and voila! The magic happens as the orzo cooks down and soaks up all the delicious flavors. For an extra creamy touch, a splash of heavy cream just before serving can elevate this dish even more. Pro tip: Use leftover roasted chicken sausage if you have it; it adds an extra punch of flavor!
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serve this dish steaming hot in a bowl and sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan and parsley for that vibrant pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad for a fresh crunch or some crusty bread to mop up all that creamy goodness. The enticing aroma will have everyone gathering around the table.
How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Got leftovers? This dish keeps well! Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to do so within a couple of hours. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to revive that creamy texture.
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Timing is Key: Don’t overcook the broccoli; you want it tender but still with a bit of crunch.
- Ingredient Swaps: Try turkey sausage or even tofu if you’re going for a veggie version.
- Texture Tips: If you prefer even creamier orzo, feel free to toss in more Parmesan or a dollop of cream until you reach that perfect consistency.
Variation
Want to switch things up? Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of spinach for added color and flavor. You could also swap out the Italian seasoning for a spicy sausage variant to heat things up!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to use turkey, pork, or even a vegan sausage!Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat.Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes nicely. Just be sure to thaw it overnight before reheating.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Toss in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in 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. Optionally, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
