Name: Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
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)

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Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delicious and filling meal that combines savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh broccoli. This easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty. You can cook everything in one pot, which means less cleanup for you! The flavors blend together beautifully, and the Parmesan cheese adds a creamy touch. You can enjoy this meal alone, or pair it with a salad or bread. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

You will love this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo because it is simple to make and full of flavor. The combination of the juicy chicken sausage and nutritious broccoli makes it a balanced meal. Plus, the orzo pasta gives it a fun texture that everyone will enjoy. This dish is not only comforting but also healthy, making it a great choice for any occasion. It provides a satisfying way to get your veggies in while still tasting amazing.

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Ingredients You’ll Need

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)

Step-by-Step Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Add 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. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving (optional).

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Serve this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It can be enjoyed on its own or alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. The meal is hearty enough to be a complete dinner, and it pairs well with white wine or a glass of sparkling water.

How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a little extra chicken broth or water if it seems dry.

Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

To make this dish even better, choose high-quality chicken sausage for great flavor. Don’t skip the garlic; it adds wonderful taste. Make sure to check the doneness of the orzo; it should be tender but not mushy. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or peppers for more variety.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this dish to your liking. Try using turkey sausage instead of chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for black beans or chickpeas. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add crushed red pepper for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great choice for added nutrition and fiber.

Can I freeze Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2-3 months for the best taste.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package as it may differ.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

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A delicious and filling one-pot meal combining chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: None

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
Add 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.