Chicken sausage and broccoli orzo dish served in a bowl

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a fantastic one-pan meal that combines savory flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a comforting texture. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli and protein from the chicken sausage. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, providing a delicious and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who might be picky eaters!

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 ½ cups orzo pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
Add the broccoli florets and cook until slightly tender.
Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through.
Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and mix well.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish and season with salt and pepper.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Serve the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo hot, right from the skillet. It’s great on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can add even more flavor!

How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Feel free to use any type of chicken sausage you like. Spicy or sweet sausage can change the flavor profile of the dish.
You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and color.
Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can also add chickpeas for protein!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use any small pasta like fusilli or ditalini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Can I freeze Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To make it spicier, consider using spicy chicken sausage or adding red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side!