Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal, and this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo fits the bill perfectly. Combining juicy, savory chicken sausage with tender broccoli florets and delicate orzo pasta all simmered together in a fragrant chicken broth makes for a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with delicious flavors. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a well-balanced dinner that’s as quick to make as it is delightful to eat. If you love meals that bring warmth and ease to your table, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is going to become one of your new favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, the ingredients are straightforward yet pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays an essential role—from the hearty orzo providing a perfect pasta base, to the vibrant broccoli adding a fresh crunch, and of course the savory chicken sausage that brings rich depth to the dish.

• 2 cups orzo pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up flavor beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the sausage and adding a silky richness.
• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced: Adds protein and a wonderful meaty, savory note.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Bring vibrant green color and a subtle, crisp texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a touch of spice.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that ties everything together.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Mediterranean flair.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a creamy, salty finish and richness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes as a garnish.

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook it until it turns beautifully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is key because browning the sausage builds deep, savory flavors that will infuse the entire dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma

Once the sausage is nicely browned, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for just 1 minute until you can smell that wonderful fragrance filling your kitchen. Garlic is a must for adding warmth and complexity to the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli Florets

Next, stir in the fresh broccoli florets and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes. This softens them slightly while keeping just enough bite to maintain a fresh, bright texture that contrasts beautifully against the creamy orzo.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Liquids

Now it’s time to add the star of the pasta: the orzo. Pour in the orzo pasta along with the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil before turning down the heat to a simmer. This stage lets the orzo slowly absorb the broth and all those savory flavors.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pot and let everything cook softly for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the orzo to be tender and plump, soaking up nearly all the luscious broth for a rich, creamy texture without being dry.

Step 6: Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Once the orzo is cooked through and the liquid mostly absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely into the orzo mixture. This step adds a dreamy cheesiness that rounds out the flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Garnishes

Finishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley is a simple but brilliant way to add a burst of green and a bright herbal note. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top if you want to indulge in more cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is quite filling on its own, but if you want to make a fuller meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for texture contrast and added crunch. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a light cucumber salad can also brighten the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this meal in shallow bowls with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You could even sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top to add a lovely nutty dimension that complements the sausage and broccoli beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftovers of the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep it fresh and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to eat, reheat the orzo gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems dry. Stir well to maintain the creamy texture and freshness of the dish.

FAQs

Can I use another type of sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps this dish lighter, you can substitute pork, turkey, or even a vegetarian sausage based on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time if the sausage varies in size.

Is orzo pasta gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and is not gluten-free. However, there are gluten-free orzo alternatives made from rice or corn available at many stores if you need to avoid gluten.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach to customize the recipe and boost its nutritional profile.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or a mild Asiago cheese work beautifully as alternatives, adding similar savory and creamy notes.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep the dish creamy without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers comfort without fuss, I can’t recommend giving this one a try enough. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved meal to share with friends and family.

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