As I rummaged through my pantry one busy evening, I was struck by a delightful spark of inspiration. I glanced at the chicken sausage and fresh broccoli and thought: why not combine them into a comforting bowl of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo? In just 30 minutes, this one-pot meal transforms these simple ingredients into a festivity of flavors and textures that warm the heart. Not only does it come together quickly, making it a lifesaver for hectic weeknights, but it also minimizes the dreaded clean-up, letting you savor the moment with loved ones. With tender orzo cradling savory sausage and vibrant green broccoli, this dish has become a staple in my home. Curious about how to bring this cozy meal to your dinner table? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is this Dish a Must-Try? Quick, One-Pot Wonder: This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory sausage, fresh broccoli, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering experience. Customizable Goodness: With easy substitutions available, you can adapt it to fit your family’s preferences. Comfort Food Vibes: It’s a warm, cozy meal that brings a sense of home to the table. Plus, if you’re looking for more quick dinner ideas, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another delicious option! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Ingredients For the Main Dish Chicken Sausage – Provides heartiness and savory flavor; you can substitute with turkey sausage or pork sausage if desired. Broccoli – Adds color and nutritional value; bell peppers, spinach, or peas can be swapped for a different taste. Orzo – Serves as the comforting base; gluten-free orzo is available for gluten-free diets. Garlic – Infuses the dish with an aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible. Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and enhances the flavor of the dish. Italian Seasoning – Adds herby notes that complement the hearty ingredients. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process. Parmesan Cheese – Incorporates a creamy texture and a lovely umami flavor when stirred in at the end. Olive Oil – Used for sautéing sausage and vegetables, adding richness and enhancing flavors. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Step 1: Heat the Oil In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, creating a perfect base for your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. This should take about 2 minutes. Once hot, you’re ready to add the sausage, ensuring that every bite is infused with flavor from the get-go. Step 2: Sauté the Sausage Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the pieces are golden brown. This browning enhances the flavor and gives a delicious crunch to your dish. As the sausage cooks, you’ll notice a fragrant aroma filling your kitchen, setting the stage for the rest of the meal. Step 3: Add Garlic Once the sausage is browned, introduce 3 minced garlic cloves into the pot. Stir them in for about 1 minute until you smell the delightful garlic aroma wafting through the air. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter; you want it just fragrant and lightly golden. Step 4: Incorporate Broccoli Next, toss in 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes. The broccoli will brighten in color and soften slightly, which helps to maintain a bit of crunch in the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and that everything is well combined. Step 5: Mix in Orzo and Seasonings Stir in 1 cup of orzo, 4 cups of chicken broth, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly; the combined ingredients will create a colorful and inviting scene. The broth helps the orzo cook perfectly while infusing it with savory goodness. Step 6: Simmer the Dish Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. This is where the magic happens—the broth will be absorbed, and the orzo will become tender, transforming it into a cozy meal. Step 7: Finish with Parmesan After the orzo has soaked up most of the liquid and is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt and create a creamy texture that enhances the dish’s overall flavor. You now have a comforting Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo waiting to be served. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Spoon the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired. Serve hot, letting the flavors mingle on your palate. Don’t forget to add extra Parmesan on top for those who enjoy a little more creaminess in their dish. Helpful Tricks for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Stir Occasionally: To prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot, remember to stir it a few times during simmering. This ensures even cooking and a creamy texture. Adjust Cooking Times: If you choose to substitute with turkey or pork sausage, keep an eye on the cooking times. Different sausages may require additional or less cooking time. Vibrant Veggies: For added color and nutrition, consider tossing in bell peppers or peas along with the broccoli. They’ll brighten the dish and give it an extra boost of flavor. Use Quality Broth: The richness of chicken broth greatly enhances the overall taste. Opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought option to elevate your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. Freshly Grated Parmesan: Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged will bring a creamier texture and bolder flavor to the final dish. It’s worth the extra effort! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Variations Feel free to customize this recipe and make it your own while delighting your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a creamy texture without the dairy. Heat it Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that balances beautifully with the savory sausage. Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based sausage and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vibrant veggie medley. Colorful Twist: Toss in multicolored bell peppers or cherry tomatoes alongside the broccoli; the variety adds beautiful presentation and zesty flavors. Pasta Swap: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of orzo for a heartier base that offers a different texture altogether while still being comforting. Italian Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning, bringing a garden-fresh flavor that elevates the dish. Protein Punch: For added protein, mix in a can of drained chickpeas or white beans once the orzo has cooked through; they’ll soak up the delicious broth for extra flavor. For more satisfying meal ideas, don’t miss my Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Sausage or try these delightful Grilled Chicken Broccoli bowls for a new twist! What to Serve with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo As you savor each bite of this one-pot wonder, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience. Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread complements the creamy orzo beautifully, making every bite a delight. Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish, brightening your palate. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus sprinkled with lemon and Parmesan adds a savory bite and a pop of color to your table. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich, buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting side, balancing the savory sausage and bright broccoli flavors perfectly. Lemon Herb Quinoa: Light and nutritious, quinoa dressed with herbs and lemon can introduce a refreshing element to your meal, rounding out the flavors. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic infuses the plate with vibrant green goodness and additional nutrients to complement the orzo. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay offers a crisp finish and pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and Parmesan richness of the dish. Tiramisu: End your dinner on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, offering a delightful balance after a savory meal. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare everything up to the simmering stage up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the sausage and garlic, add the broccoli, and mix in the orzo and seasonings, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring the quality stays intact. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a pot over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth, cover, and simmer until heated through. Finally, stir in the Parmesan cheese just before serving for that creamy finish—leaving you with a delicious, hassle-free dinner! Storage Tips for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and safe for later enjoyment. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the orzo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the simmering stage, cool it, and store it in the fridge. Finish with Parmesan when ready to enjoy! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken sausage for this recipe? When choosing chicken sausage, look for fresh sausages with minimal preservatives. Opt for ones that are finely seasoned, as they will greatly enhance the flavor of your dish. Check for a firm texture and bright color without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a variety with herbs or spices that complement Italian cuisine! How should I store leftover Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the orzo completely before sealing it to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop! Can I freeze Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo? Absolutely! To freeze this dish, transfer the cooled orzo into a freezer-safe container after cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out. What should I do if my orzo is sticking together? To prevent sticking while cooking, be sure to stir the orzo frequently during the simmering process. If you find it’s stuck despite this, you can add a little extra broth or water, stirring until it loosens up. If you notice any lumps after storing, a splash of broth while reheating will help restore its creamy texture. Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo can easily be made gluten-free. Just swap the regular orzo for gluten-free orzo options available in stores. Additionally, verify that your chicken sausage does not contain any gluten ingredients. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting meal! Can my pet share this dish with me? While the ingredients in this recipe are generally safe for pets, especially the chicken and broccoli, it’s best to avoid sharing due to seasoning and cheese. Foods with garlic and excessive salt can be harmful to pets, so set aside a plain portion for them before adding any seasonings or cheese! Quick Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo for Cozy Nights Delight in a cozy bowl of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, blending flavors in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Main Dish1 package Chicken Sausage Can substitute with turkey or pork sausage.2 cups Broccoli Fresh broccoli florets; can substitute with bell peppers or peas.1 cup Orzo Gluten-free orzo is available.3 cloves Garlic Minced.4 cups Chicken Broth Use high-quality or homemade for best flavor.2 teaspoons Italian Seasoningto taste Saltto taste Pepper½ cup Parmesan Cheese Grated.2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing. Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli OrzoIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot and stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.Introduce 3 minced garlic cloves into the pot and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.Add 2 cups of fresh broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes.Stir in 1 cup of orzo, 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer for about 10-12 minutes.Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStir occasionally while simmering to prevent orzo from sticking and ensure even cooking. Adjust cooking times if substituting sausage varieties. Use quality broth for enhanced flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan improves texture and taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
