why make this recipe
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a weeknight winner: quick to prepare, comforting, and full of savory flavor. It combines tender orzo, hearty chicken sausage, and bright broccoli for a one-pan meal that’s both family-friendly and easy to adapt.
introduction
This dish brings together Italian-inspired flavors with accessible pantry ingredients. Orzo cooks up creamy in chicken broth while absorbing the juices from browned sausage and garlic, and broccoli adds color, texture, and nutrients. It’s great for busy nights, meal prep, or when you want a comforting skillet dinner without a lot of fuss.
how to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Start by browning the chicken sausage to build flavor; fat and browned bits left in the pan help season the orzo. Sauté aromatics (garlic and onion) next so they soften and release fragrance. Add the broccoli briefly to keep it bright and slightly crisp before adding orzo and broth—this prevents mushy vegetables. Simmer covered until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Return the sausage to reheat and mix, finish with grated Parmesan and seasoning to taste.
Ingredients :
1 lb chicken sausage, sliced, 2 cups broccoli florets, 1 ½ cups orzo pasta, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 onion, chopped, 4 cups chicken broth, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until slightly tender.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through.
- Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and mix well.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish and season with salt and pepper.
how to serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serve hot, straight from the skillet. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the orzo, or microwave covered in short intervals, stirring between heats. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Brown the sausage well for more depth of flavor. Remove and return it later so it doesn’t overcook.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want better control over seasoning.
- If the orzo seems dry before it’s fully cooked, add a little more hot broth or water and continue simmering.
- For creamier results, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream at the end.
- Cut broccoli into uniform florets so they cook evenly.
variation (if any)
- Swap broccoli for asparagus, spinach, or peas depending on seasonality and preference.
- Use spicy chicken sausage for a kick, or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a sweeter, tangy note.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing sausage with hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage and using vegetable broth.
FAQ
Q: Can I use instant orzo or a different pasta?
A: Orzo is ideal for the creamy, risotto-like texture, but small pastas (like ditalini) can work; cooking times may vary.
Q: How do I keep broccoli from getting soggy?
A: Add broccoli after sautéing the aromatics and cook only until slightly tender—it will finish cooking with the orzo.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes — freeze in meal-size portions. Reheat slowly and add a splash of broth if the texture tightens.
Conclusion
For an easy, flavorful skillet dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo delivers. For another take on this combination and extra inspiration, see Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet – Lolo Home Kitchen.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until slightly tender.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through.
- Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and mix well.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish and season with salt and pepper.
