A Hearty Dish for Any Occasion
If you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners with something that’s both comforting and nutritious, look no further than this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe. This dish combines succulent chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta in a single pot, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence. What really brings this meal together is the easiness of preparation without skimping on flavor; it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo irresistible? For starters, it’s a one-pot wonder—quick to prepare and easy to clean up. It’s budget-friendly, using just a handful of ingredients that pack a mighty taste punch. The dish is not only nourishing but also a hit with kids and adults alike, making it the perfect weeknight dinner choice. Plus, it’s versatile enough for a family brunch or even a laid-back holiday gathering.
"I made this for my family last week and it was a huge hit! Everyone went back for seconds, and I loved how simple it was!" – Sarah J.
Preparing Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Let’s break down the magic of this recipe. You’ll start by browning the chicken sausage to get a flavorful base, then integrate fresh garlic for an aromatic touch. In just a matter of minutes, the colorful broccoli florets and orzo come together with rich chicken broth and Italian herbs to create a comforting dish. Ready to dig in? Here’s a straightforward guide.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your delicious Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo:
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
You can also customize this recipe! Want it creamier? A splash of heavy cream towards the end can elevate this dish significantly.
Direction to Follow
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Incorporate the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to plating, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color. For side dishes, consider a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread for soaking up any leftover sauce. This dish is also perfect paired with a glass of crisp white wine, making it a delightful meal for entertaining.
How to Store & Freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t fret! Store any uneaten Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; simply let it cool, package it in freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, making sure it’s heated through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
A few tips can enhance your cooking experience here. Pre-cooking your sausage can help you reduce the initial cooking time if you’re in a hurry. Make sure to stir frequently while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Lastly, always taste before serving; you can adjust the seasoning as needed based on your preferences.
Creative Twists
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo invites creativity! Want to make it meat-free? Swap the chicken sausage for plant-based varieties or chickpeas for protein. You could also experiment with different vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers. If you want to add a kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of lemon juice for brightness.
Your Questions Answered
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
On average, expect to spend about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use other types of pasta in place of orzo?
Absolutely, you can substitute with any small pasta shape, though cooking times may vary.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and can be a fantastic choice for meal prep as it reheats nicely. Just make sure to store it in portions to make reheating easier!
Dive into the delightful world of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, and watch it steal the spotlight at your next meal!
Print
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat-based
Description
A comforting and nutritious one-pot meal combining chicken sausage, broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Incorporate the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For added creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg