As the sun sets and the aroma of sautéing garlic wafts through the kitchen, I find myself eagerly anticipating dinner. Tonight, I’m whipping up a vibrant Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet—a one-pan meal that offers both speed and flavor without compromising on comfort. In just 30 minutes, this delightful dish combines juicy chicken sausage, tender orzo, and nutritious broccoli into a satisfying experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its versatility for meal prep and the ability to accommodate various taste preferences, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your weeknight rotation. Have you ever imagined how easy it can be to create a wholesome meal with just one skillet? Let’s dive into the details! Why Choose This One-Pan Meal? Simplicity at Its Finest: This Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep planning. Flavor Explosion: The juicy chicken sausage paired with fresh broccoli and tender orzo brings a medley of flavors that tantalize the taste buds, satisfying both comfort food cravings and healthy eating. Versatile and Customizable: With variations including Mediterranean or Vegetarian options, this dish accommodates various dietary needs, making it perfect for serving family and friends with different tastes. Quick and Convenient: Ready in just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a wholesome meal without the wait, allowing more time to unwind after a long day. Crowd-Pleaser: This hearty skillet meal is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring that dinner is something everyone can get excited about, perfect for pairing with a simple arugula salad or crusty bread. Experience how easy weeknight cooking can be with this delicious recipe that surely won’t disappoint! Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Ingredients • Gather everything you need for this delicious one-pan meal! For the Skillet Chicken Sausage – Provides lean protein and rich flavor; pre-cooked variety is best for convenience. Orzo Pasta – Serves as the pasta base, cooking quickly to create a hearty texture; substitute with small pasta shapes or rice if unavailable. Broccoli – Adds color, nutrients, and a slight crunch; fresh is preferred, but frozen works with a bit of adjustment. Onion – Offers sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed. Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor and enhances overall taste. Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and depth; can be replaced with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Olive Oil – Used for sautéing, adds richness. Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavor profile; may be tailored to taste preferences. Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat for those who like a little spice. Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and savory depth to the Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet. Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; enhances flavors. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and a pop of color to your meal. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Step 1: Sauté Sausage Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the edges. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, then remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful bits in the pan. Step 2: Aromatics In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary and toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to bloom. Step 3: Toast and Cook Orzo Now, stir in the orzo, coating it in the oil and allowing it to toast for 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the pasta. Then, pour in the chicken broth, bring it to a simmer, and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 8 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Step 4: Add Broccoli & Sausage After the orzo has cooked, uncover the skillet and fold in the broccoli florets along with the previously sautéed chicken sausage. Cover again and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to steam until it’s tender-crisp while the sausage heats through. Keep an eye on it, ensuring the broccoli maintains its vibrant green color. Step 5: Finish Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice for a bright, creamy finish. Taste your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. For a final touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a pop of color and freshness to your delightful one-pan meal. What to Serve with Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Creating a memorable meal is easy when you have the perfect pairings to complement your skillet dish. Crusty Garlic Bread: The crispy exterior and soft inside make this a wonderful addition, perfect for soaking up the creamy flavors. Simple Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this salad adds a peppery freshness that balances the richness of the skillet. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and caramelization contrast beautifully with the savory sausage, creating a delightful flavor profile. Lemon Herb Couscous: Light and zesty, this side dish echoes the lemon you used in the skillet while adding a fluffy texture to your meal. Red Wine or Sparkling Water: A glass of red wine enhances the savory aspects of the dish, while sparkling water adds a refreshing touch for varied guests. Cheesy Garlic Stuffed Mushrooms: These can serve as delightful appetizers, their richness pairing wonderfully with the hearty orzo and sausage. With these pairings, you can easily turn your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet into a full, delightful dining experience! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish is cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Separate portions for easy use later. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess and prevent sticking. Quality Check: Always check for any off smells or discoloration before reheating, ensuring your meal is as delightful as when first cooked. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and measure out the orzo up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator (separate from the cooked sausage) to streamline your cooking process. Additionally, you can cook the orzo and broccoli, then cool them before combining with the sausage and refrigerating the whole skillet for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent dryness. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal with minimal effort at dinner time! Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Variations Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet! Each twist offers a delightful taste adventure. Mediterranean: Add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a tangy Mediterranean burst of flavor. This version brings a vibrant color palette and refreshing zest to each bite! Vegetarian: Swap chicken sausage for hearty cremini mushrooms and use vegetable broth. You’ll create an earthy and satisfying dish that showcases delightful umami flavors without the meat! Spicy Cajun: Use Andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning, adding bell pepper and baby spinach for a Southern-inspired kick that warms you up on a chilly night. This fiery alternative infuses excitement with every mouthful. Creamy Alfredo: Stir in a splash of cream and a bit more Parmesan for a rich, creamy texture. This indulgent twist elevates the comfort level and pairs beautifully with garlic bread. Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or dill to the mix at the end for a fresh, aromatic explosion. The added fragrance turns this dish into a garden-fresh delight, transporting your taste buds outdoors! Zesty Lemon: Increase the lemon juice and add lemon zest for an extra zing. This lively twist brightens the entire dish, making it even more refreshing. Protein-Packed: Incorporate chickpeas or white beans for an additional protein boost, creating a heartier texture that complements the orzo beautifully. Cheesy Broccoli: Toss in an extra handful of shredded cheese – like mozzarella or cheddar – just before serving for an ultra-cheesy finish that kids will adore. Explore these variations and find your family’s favorite! You might also enjoy pairing this dish with a delightful Chicken Sandwich Every or a cozy Turkey Zucchini Skillet for a full week of wonderful flavors. Happy cooking! Expert Tips for Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Toast the Orzo: Toasting orzo in olive oil brings out its nutty flavor and enhances the dish’s overall taste; don’t overlook this step! Perfect Broccoli: Add broccoli halfway through cooking to retain its crunch and vibrant color, preventing it from becoming mushy. Sausage Crust: Allow the chicken sausage to sear before flipping; this builds a delicious crust and maximizes flavor in the Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet. Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper throughout cooking to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile. Versatile Prep: Feel free to customize by adding seasonal veggies or using different pasta; this dish is forgiving and adaptable for your pantry. Meal Prep Greatness: For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture. Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken sausage should I use? Absolutely use pre-cooked chicken sausage for convenience! It not only saves time but ensures the sausage is cooked perfectly, delivering that rich flavor in every bite. Choose your favorite variety—Italian, smoked, or even spicy—and slice it up for the skillet. How do I store leftovers from the Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet? To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation that could make it soggy. Can I freeze this one-pan meal? Yes! To freeze the Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet, transfer it into a freezer-safe container—preferably separating portions for easy access later. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. What if my broccoli is overcooked? How can I avoid this? To avoid mushy broccoli, add the florets about halfway through the cooking process. This way, they’ll steam just enough to become tender-crisp while keeping that vibrant green color! If you notice it’s still overcooked, try adding a splash of cold water during the last couple of minutes to refresh its texture. Are there any dietary considerations for making this dish? Definitely! Experiment with dietary adjustments by using vegetarian sausage or substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a plant-based option. If you have allergies, double-check labels on your sausage and cheese for hidden ingredients. And as always, if you’re cooking for pets, consult with your vet regarding any ingredients you might use. How do I reheat this dish properly without drying it out? To reheat, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and add a splash of chicken broth while warming them on the stovetop over low heat. This helps maintain the creamy texture! Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet: A Cozy Dinner Delight A comforting Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet that combines juicy sausage, tender orzo, and nutritious broccoli 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 Skillet12 oz Chicken Sausage pre-cooked variety is best for convenience1 cup Orzo Pasta can substitute with small pasta shapes or rice if unavailable2 cups Broccoli fresh preferred, but frozen works1 medium Onion diced3 cloves Garlic minced2 cups Chicken Broth can use vegetable broth for vegetarian version2 tbsp Olive Oil for sautéing1 tbsp Italian Seasoning adjust to taste1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes optional for heat1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated1 tbsp Lemon Juice for brightnessto taste Salt seasoningto taste Black Pepper seasoning2 tbsp Fresh Parsley for garnish Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Stir occasionally, then remove and set aside.In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary and toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if desired, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.Stir in the orzo, coating it in the oil. Toast for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for about 8 minutes until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.Uncover the skillet, fold in broccoli florets and the previously sautéed chicken sausage. Cover again and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the broccoli steams and is tender-crisp.Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesToast the orzo in olive oil for enhanced flavor. Broccoli should be added halfway through cooking to retain crunch. Adjust seasoning as desired for balanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
