If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with comforting flavors yet quick enough for busy nights, look no further than Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe! This dish marries the smoky, savory goodness of chicken sausage with tender broccoli and creamy Parmesan, all carried by perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a delightful one-pot wonder that combines wholesome ingredients into a vibrant, satisfying plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings warmth and ease to the kitchen without sacrificing on taste.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe! Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple and essential ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that are both comforting and inviting. Every item you add contributes to the dish’s harmony — from the juicy chicken sausage to the fresh crunch of broccoli and the silky finish from Parmesan cheese.

Orzo pasta (2 cups): Provides a delicate, rice-like base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the sausage and infuses the whole dish with a subtle fruity aroma.
Chicken sausage (1 pound, sliced): Adds smoky, savory richness and protein to keep you full and satisfied.
Broccoli florets (2 cups): Bring a fresh pop of green, crunchy texture, and a boost of nutrients.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances depth with its fragrant, slightly spicy kick.
Chicken broth (4 cups): Acts as the cooking liquid, infusing the orzo and vegetables with savory notes.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Delivers a perfect blend of herbs that brighten and round out the flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Melts in at the end adding a creamy, salty finish that ties everything together.
Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A fresh garnish that adds a lively green color and a hint of brightness.

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe!

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your sliced chicken sausage. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned. This step not only adds texture but also releases those savory, meaty juices that will flavor the entire dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it and stir regularly so the garlic doesn’t burn — you want it just fragrant, releasing those mouthwatering aromas that will make your kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli

Pop in the broccoli florets and stir everything together. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften but still retain their vibrant green color. This keeps the broccoli fresh and slightly crisp, giving the dish great texture.

Step 4: Combine Orzo and Broth

Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This will melt gently into the dish, creating a creamy, cheesy coating that perfectly binds the sausage, broccoli, and orzo together. It’s the final touch that makes this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe! truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe!

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. Not only does it brighten the plate with its vivid green color, but it also adds a refreshing, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for mopping up any leftover sauce. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted root vegetables or a simple tomato salad complement the flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this orzo in shallow bowls for an inviting, rustic presentation, or get fancy by hollowing out grilled bell peppers and stuffing them with the orzo mixture. It adds a pop of color and a fun twist that guests will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making second-day indulgence just as tasty as the first.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze leftovers in a suitable container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the delicious texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the orzo seems dry. Stir frequently to warm everything evenly without losing the creamy consistency made by the Parmesan cheese.

FAQs

Can I use another type of sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps things lighter, mild or spicy pork sausage works wonderfully and adds a different depth of flavor.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes along with vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Can I substitute orzo with another pasta?

Orzo is perfect for this recipe because of its small size and texture, but you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells if you prefer.

How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?

Cook the broccoli only until just tender in Step 3, and keep an eye while simmering the orzo so it doesn’t overcook. The broccoli should remain vibrant and slightly crisp.

What can I add to make this dish creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese along with the Parmesan before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty dish that comes together with ease and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. I hope you give this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe! a go—it’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s versatile enough for weeknights or casual dinner parties. Once you try it, I guarantee it will become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe! Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 12 reviews

Author: Harper
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

A flavorful and hearty Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe that combines tender orzo pasta with savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, delivering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables with vibrant Italian seasoning and a creamy finish.

Instructions

Cook the sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot with the sausage and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften slightly while retaining a pleasant crunch.
Combine orzo and liquids: Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the chicken broth.
Finish with cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the dish.
Serve: Dish the orzo onto plates or bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use mild or spicy chicken sausage depending on preference for heat.
For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
To save time, use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped broccoli florets.
If the orzo absorbs liquid too quickly, add a splash more broth or water during cooking.
Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sauteing and Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American