Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Tender orzo pasta combines with savory chicken sausage and fresh broccoli, all brought together with garlic and Parmesan cheese.

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 (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Step 4: Add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Use spicy chicken sausage for an extra kick of flavor.
• Add a splash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
• Substitute broccoli with asparagus or spinach for different greens.
• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken sausage with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the orzo has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage with pork, turkey, or vegetarian sausage according to your preference. Adjust cooking times if needed.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free orzo or substitute it with rice or quinoa to keep the dish gluten-free while maintaining a similar texture.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 118 reviews

This hearty Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe combines tender chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and creamy Parmesan cheese with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Cooked in a single pot, it’s an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner packed with protein and veggies.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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

Finishing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but remain crisp.
4. Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined for a creamy finish.
7. Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it lighter.
• For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream after adding the Parmesan cheese.
• Make sure to stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo, one pot meal, easy dinner, Italian seasoning, Parmesan, quick dinner