Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Comforting Weeknight Delight
There are nights when you crave a hearty, one-pot meal without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo comes into play. This simple, yet satisfying dish combines juicy chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and al dente orzo, creating a bowl full of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even meal prep for the busy days ahead.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe isn’t just easy to follow; it’s also wonderfully versatile, budget-friendly, and kid-approved. The unique blend of chicken sausage and broccoli with orzo pasta offers a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Plus, it allows for multiple variations, making it an ideal candidate for your culinary experiments!
"I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly this dish came together! It’s the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition my family loves." — A happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a breeze. You’ll start by sautéing the veggies and sausage, followed by a quick simmer with orzo and broth. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to serve.
- Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil.
- Brown the chicken sausage.
- Add the orzo and broth.
- Incorporate the broccoli and simmer.
- Serve warm with Parmesan on top.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to whip up Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo:
- 1 pound chicken sausage
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Feel free to substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sliced chicken sausage, cooking until the sausage is browned, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Next, add the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the broccoli florets, stirring to combine.
- Cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper as needed based on your taste.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is best served warm, with a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan on top. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A light white wine or sparkling water can elevate the dining experience. Don’t forget to set aside leftovers for an easy reheatable lunch!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in single serving portions. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth to revive the moisture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Brown your sausage well: Allowing bacteria to form on the sausage can give an off-taste, so ensure it’s well-cooked for the best flavor.
- Customizable veggies: Throw in other fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Watch the liquid: If your orzo absorbs the broth too quickly, feel free to add a bit more to reach your desired consistency.
Creative twists
Want to put a unique spin on this dish? Here are a few ideas:
- Add spices: Try incorporating Italian herbs like oregano or basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Lemon zest: Grate some lemon zest before serving for a refreshing zing.
- Cheese variations: Swap out Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
This easy recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to switch the chicken sausage for turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian alternative to suit your dietary needs.
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers.
Is orzo gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo pasta is made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or other gluten-free grains in grocery stores.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping for the week.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or even water in a pinch, although the flavor will be less rich.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
How do I know when the orzo is done?
The orzo will be tender and the liquid should be absorbed when finished cooking. If you prefer a creamier consistency, add a bit more broth before finishing.
By following these tips and variations, you can make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo your own personal culinary masterpiece!
Print
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available
Description
A comforting and nutritious one-pot meal featuring chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken sausage
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sliced chicken sausage, cooking until the sausage is browned, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the broccoli florets, stirring to combine.
- Cook until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper as needed based on your taste.
- Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Feel free to substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative. Customizable with various veggies and seasonings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
