Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

This one-pot chicken sausage and broccoli orzo is a comforting dish that combines savory sausage with tender broccoli and creamy Parmesan orzo. It’s the kind of meal that comes together easily and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, making weeknight dinners both simple and satisfying.

I first made this on a busy weeknight, and it quickly became a family favorite because of how flavorful and fuss-free it is.

Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: two cups — provides a tender, rice-like texture that soaks up all the flavors
• Olive oil: one tablespoon — helps brown the sausage and adds a fruity richness
• Chicken sausage: one pound sliced — the star protein that gives a smoky and savory punch look for a quality brand with herbs for extra flavor
• Broccoli florets: two cups — adds a fresh crunch and bright color while boosting the nutrition
• Garlic: three cloves minced — delivers an aromatic base that lifts the whole dish
• Chicken broth: four cups — the cooking liquid that infuses the orzo and sausage with savory depth opt for low sodium if you prefer less salt
• Italian seasoning: one teaspoon — a blend of herbs that adds complexity and warmth
• Salt and pepper: to taste — essential seasonings that balance and enhance the flavors
• Grated Parmesan cheese: half cup — melts into the dish for a nutty, creamy finish
• Fresh parsley: two tablespoons chopped for garnish — a fresh herbal note that brightens each bite

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for five to seven minutes until nicely browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and creates a caramelized crust.

Add Garlic:

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it as raw garlic becomes bitter quickly.

Cook Broccoli:

Add broccoli florets to the pot and cook them for two to three minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch. This keeps the broccoli vibrant and fresh.

Combine Ingredients:

Pour in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Stir:

Cover the pot and let it cook for ten to twelve minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The orzo should absorb most of the liquid and become tender.

Finish with Cheese:

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the orzo. This step rounds out the flavors with a creamy, cheesy richness.

Plate and Garnish:

Serve the dish hot with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top. The parsley adds a fresh pop of color and herbal brightness to each bite.

I remember once making this for a casual dinner with friends, and everyone raved about how the flavors blended together so beautifully, making this an easy yet impressive meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it has thickened.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken sausage for spicy Italian sausage if you want a little heat. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. You can replace broccoli with spinach or asparagus depending on what’s fresh or in your fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving adds brightness and balances the richness.

This recipe balances ease and flavor perfectly for busy nights. Enjoy the comforting warmth with your loved ones.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe can work well in place of orzo without altering the cooking time significantly.

→ How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?

Adding the broccoli later in the cooking process and simmering it for just a few minutes helps it stay tender-crisp and vibrant.

→ What type of sausage works best in this dish?

Italian chicken sausage with herbs adds great flavor, but mild or spicy varieties can be chosen based on personal preference.

→ Can this be made ahead and reheated?

Yes, store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

→ Is Parmesan cheese mandatory for finishing the dish?

While Parmesan adds a creamy, savory finish, you can omit it or substitute with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano if desired.