Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together the hearty flavors of chicken sausage, the satisfying chewiness of orzo, and the bright freshness of broccoli. It’s a one-pot wonder that combines ease with flavor, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe quickly becomes a go-to in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this recipe truly special is its quick preparation time, making it an excellent choice for those hectic evenings when you still want to serve something wholesome. It’s not just easy, but it’s also budget-friendly, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. This dish is also perfect for kids, with flavors and textures that they will love.
"My kids gobbled it up in no time! Definitely a repeat in our house!"
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo – Quick, Easy, and Packed with Flavor
This delicious dish comes together in just one pot, making both cooking and cleanup a breeze. By sautéing aromatic ingredients like onion and garlic and then layering in orzo, broccoli, and chicken sausage, you’ll create a dish that’s not only filling but bursting with flavorful goodness. Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Gather these items for a delightful and satisfying meal:
12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup Parmesan (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For a touch of variety, you can substitute the chicken sausage with turkey or a plant-based option for a lighter or vegetarian version. If you don’t have orzo, any small pasta like ditalini or couscous will work as well!
Directions
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, then remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo, toasting it for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time to ensure they are tender yet vibrant.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, mix in the lemon juice, and if desired, the Parmesan cheese. Stir well and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or extra lemon zest can add a delightful zing to each bite!
Storage & Reheating
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will last for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, freezing is an option; just portion it out, and it will last for up to 2 months! To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave, with a splash of broth if necessary to bring back some moisture.
Pro Tips
For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after sautéing the onion and garlic. When it comes to serving, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can provide a pop of freshness, enhancing the dish’s vibrant taste.
Variations
Feel free to mix things up! Add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or kale for added nutrients and colors. If you’re after a warmer spice profile, consider adding crushed red pepper or your favorite hot sauce to kick things up a notch!
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat orzo in this recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat orzo will add additional fiber and nutrients, making the dish even healthier.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works perfectly and cuts down on prep time. Just add it right into the dish frozen!
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water, but you might want to enhance the flavor with some added herbs or spices.
Internal Links:
- Family-Friendly Dinner Ideas
- Easy One-Pot Pasta Recipes
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A comforting one-pot meal that combines chicken sausage, orzo, and fresh broccoli for a quick and tasty dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup Parmesan (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, then remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo, toasting it for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time to ensure they are tender yet vibrant.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, mix in the lemon juice, and if desired, the Parmesan cheese. Stir well and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth if necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg