Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Discover a Flavorful Dinner with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet quick meal, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is just what you need. This dish combines tender orzo pasta with flavorful chicken sausage and crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a rich, savory broth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. What makes it even better is how easily it comes together, making it a staple that you’ll reach for time and again.
“I made this for dinner last night, and my family loved it! It’s now a weekly staple—simple, delicious, and everyone cleans their plates!” – Sarah, a satisfied home cook.
Reasons to Try This Recipe
What makes this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo truly special? Firstly, it’s a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up a hearty dish that’s loaded with nutrients thanks to the broccoli. This meal is incredibly budget-friendly too, allowing you to feed a family without breaking the bank.
It’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or even a cozy family gathering, as kids and adults alike will delight in its comforting flavors. Additionally, you can customize it easily for picky eaters—what’s not to love about a dish that satisfies everyone?
Preparing Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Let’s break down how to create this delicious meal. You’ll start by heating olive oil, browning the chicken sausage, and adding aromatic garlic—building layers of flavor right from the start. Next, you’ll stir in fresh broccoli and the orzo, allowing it to absorb all the delicious broth as it cooks. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a complete meal ready to serve.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo:
- 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)
Pro tip: You can substitute the chicken sausage for turkey sausage or even a plant-based option for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to bring your dish to life:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture 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 the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream right before serving—an optional twist that can elevate this dish even further!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
You can serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo as an all-in-one meal, but here are a few creative serving ideas:
- Plate it beautifully with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the flavors.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for a complete comfort-food experience.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store homemade Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. The dish will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make larger batches, consider freezing portions in individual containers, which can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Make sure not to overcook the orzo; it should be al dente and absorb most of the liquid without turning mushy.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a delightful freshness.
- If you’re making a larger batch, adjust the chicken broth accordingly to maintain the desired consistency.
Creative Twists to Try
This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment!
- Swap out the broccoli for your favorite greens like spinach or kale.
- Add a splash of white wine for a gourmet touch during cooking.
- For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
- Try different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a fun twist.
Common Questions
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
From prep to plate, you can expect this dish to take about 30 minutes.
Can I use whole grain orzo instead of traditional orzo?
Absolutely! Whole grain orzo provides more fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier option.
How do I reheat leftovers safely?
Reheat your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in the microwave until it’s steaming hot throughout, or warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
With its delightful flavors and simple preparation, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a meal you won’t want to miss. Dive into this fantastic recipe and enjoy a feast that’s delicious, nutritious, and satisfying!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture 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 the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
