introduction

Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a quick, comforting one-pan dinner that combines tender orzo, savory chicken sausage, and fresh broccoli in a cheesy, silky base. It’s an easy weeknight favorite when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

why make this recipe

Ready in about 25 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Balanced: protein from chicken sausage, veggies from broccoli, and satisfying carbs from orzo.
Flexible: works with broth or water, and adapts well to whatever you have on hand.
Family-friendly — mild, cheesy flavors that appeal to kids and adults alike.

how to make Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

This recipe is essentially a one-pan meal. Begin by browning sliced chicken sausage in olive oil to develop flavor, then briefly cook garlic for aroma. Add the orzo with liquid and simmer, letting the pasta absorb the cooking liquid until tender. Stir in steamed broccoli and grated Parmesan at the end to create a creamy, cohesive dish; finish with salt and pepper to taste. The pasta finishes cooking in the same pan as the sausage so the final result is flavorful and simple.

Ingredients :

1 cup orzo pasta
2 chicken sausages, sliced
1 cup steamed broccoli florets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the orzo pasta and 2 cups of water or broth; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked.
Stir in the steamed broccoli and grated parmesan cheese.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm.

how to serve Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Serve it straight from the pan while warm. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Pair with a simple side salad or crusty bread to round out the meal.

how to store Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between.
Freezing: Not ideal for best texture (the orzo may become mushy), but you can freeze for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a bit of liquid.

tips to make Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Use low-sodium broth instead of water for more depth of flavor.
If the mixture seems dry after resting, add a splash of milk or broth and stir over low heat.
Brown the sausage well for added caramelized flavor.
Steam broccoli just until bright green and tender-crisp so it keeps some texture after stirring in.
Grate fresh Parmesan for better melt and flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.

variation (if any)

Swap chicken sausage for turkey or pork sausage, or use sliced smoked kielbasa for a smokier taste.
Make it vegetarian by using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
Add a handful of baby spinach or sun-dried tomatoes when stirring in the broccoli for extra color and flavor.
For a richer sauce, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche with the Parmesan.

Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: You can substitute small pastas like acini di pepe or small shells, but cooking time may vary.

Q: Do I have to steam the broccoli first?
A: Steaming ensures the broccoli is tender and bright; you can also sauté it briefly in the pan before adding the orzo if you prefer.

Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free orzo or small rice-shaped pasta alternative and check that the sausage ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

For a ready-in-minutes skillet dinner that hits home for comfort and convenience, this Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is hard to beat; you can find a similar take and extra tips in the original recipe inspiration at Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet – Lolo Home Kitchen.