Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a comforting one-pot meal that’s both hearty and healthy. With tender orzo pasta, flavorful chicken sausage, and vibrant broccoli, it comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

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 a little extra kick.
• Swap broccoli for spinach or kale for a different green veggie option.
• For creamier orzo, stir in a splash of cream or milk before serving.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors nicely.

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 needed to loosen the orzo.

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 turkey, pork, or vegetarian sausage according to your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free orzo or substitute with a similar gluten-free pasta like rice or quinoa to keep it gluten-free.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 112 reviews

A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli florets, and creamy orzo pasta cooked in savory chicken broth with Italian seasoning. Finished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for a comforting and easy dinner.

• Author: Grace
• 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

Pasta and Broth

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Protein and Vegetables

• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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 until browned, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, stirring to prevent burning.
3. Add Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but remain bright green and slightly crisp.
4. Add Orzo and Broth: Pour in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmer: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
7. Serve: Spoon the orzo mixture into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

• Use chicken broth for richer flavor; vegetable broth can be substituted for a lighter taste.
• Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or red pepper flakes for extra brightness or heat.
• For a lower calorie option, reduce the amount of olive oil or cheese.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Ensure to stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pot.

Keywords: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo, one-pot meal, Italian seasoning, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe