Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Introduction

Some recipes earn a permanent place in your weekly rotation not because they are flashy or complicated, but because they consistently deliver comfort, flavor, and ease. Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is exactly that kind of dish. It is warm and satisfying, simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet polished enough to serve when you want something that feels a little special without the extra work.

This recipe brings together tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, and fresh broccoli in a single skillet, all simmered gently in chicken broth until everything is perfectly cooked and infused with flavor. The finishing touch of grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and a subtle salty bite that ties the entire dish together.

What makes this meal particularly appealing is its versatility. It works just as well for a quick family dinner as it does for meal prep or casual entertaining. Because it’s made in one pan, cleanup is minimal, and the cooking process is straightforward and forgiving—ideal for home cooks of all experience levels.

If you are looking for a reliable, cozy, and nourishing dish that balances protein, vegetables, and pasta in a single bowl, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a recipe worth bookmarking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot meal with minimal cleanup
• Balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta
• Ready in just over 30 minutes from start to finish
• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Family-friendly and great for leftovers
• Comforting Italian-inspired flavors without heavy sauces

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe relies on a short list of ingredients, each playing an important role in building flavor and texture. For best results, measure everything carefully and prepare ingredients before you start cooking.

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 ½ cups orzo pasta

Aromatics

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped

Cooking Liquid

• 4 cups chicken broth

Finishing Ingredients

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Serving Size: Serves 4

Tools & Equipment Needed

Having the right tools ready will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

• Large skillet with lid
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cheese grater (if grating Parmesan fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps carefully to ensure the dish turns out perfectly cooked and well-balanced in flavor.

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until the pieces are nicely browned on both sides. This step adds depth of flavor and helps the sausage hold its texture later. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Onion

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, stirring occasionally. The onion should become translucent, and the garlic should release its aroma without browning.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir well and cook until the broccoli is slightly tender but still bright green. This ensures the vegetable retains some texture and does not become mushy later.

Step 4: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo pasta, making sure it is evenly distributed in the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the orzo is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Return the Sausage

Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet. Stir well to combine and allow everything to heat through evenly.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently until the cheese melts and coats the orzo.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm. The final texture should be creamy but not soupy, with tender orzo, flavorful sausage, and vibrant broccoli.

Tips & Variations

Dietary Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Substitute orzo with a gluten-free small pasta alternative
• Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute

Flavor Adjustments

• Add extra black pepper for a bolder finish
• Use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer more control over salt levels

Ingredient Substitutions

• Broccoli can be replaced with similar vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini
• Chicken sausage varieties (plain, herbed, or mildly spiced) all work well

Flavor Profile

This dish offers a well-rounded flavor experience. The chicken sausage provides savory depth, while the onion and garlic form a fragrant base. Orzo absorbs the seasoned chicken broth, becoming tender and flavorful, and the broccoli adds freshness and texture. Parmesan cheese brings everything together with a subtle nuttiness and creamy finish.

The overall taste is comforting, lightly savory, and balanced—perfect for those who enjoy Italian-inspired meals without heavy sauces.

Nutritional Overview

Each serving of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo provides a satisfying balance of macronutrients.

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 3 g

Dietary notes:

• High-protein main dish
• Contains vegetables and complex carbohydrates
• Suitable for balanced weeknight meals

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

This recipe works exceptionally well for meal prep.

• Cook the dish fully and allow it to cool
• Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator
• Keeps well for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth if needed

Because orzo absorbs liquid as it sits, adding a small amount of broth during reheating helps restore the original texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Will the orzo become mushy?

As long as you follow the cooking time and avoid overcooking, the orzo will remain tender but not mushy.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for best texture, but frozen broccoli can be used if added directly without thawing.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it is mild. Spice level depends on the type of chicken sausage used.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, as long as you use a large enough skillet to allow even cooking.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cooking Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo straight from the skillet for a casual family-style meal. For a more polished presentation, garnish with a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs well with simple sides like a green salad or crusty bread if desired.

Recipe Variations

1. Extra Cheesy Orzo – Add a bit more Parmesan at the end for a richer finish
2. Garlic-Forward Version – Increase garlic slightly for stronger aroma
3. Vegetable-Heavy Orzo – Increase broccoli for a more vegetable-focused dish
4. Sausage-Forward Orzo – Use thicker slices of chicken sausage for heartier bites

Ingredient Spotlight

Orzo Pasta

Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. It creates a creamy texture without the need for cream-based sauces.

Chicken Sausage

Chicken sausage offers a lighter alternative to pork sausage while still providing plenty of savory flavor. It cooks quickly and pairs well with pasta and vegetables.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Brown the sausage thoroughly for maximum flavor
• Stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking
• Taste before seasoning, as Parmesan and broth add salt naturally

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended, as orzo may change texture
• If frozen, thaw overnight and reheat gently with added broth

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fat	15 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	3 g

Dietary Notes: High-protein, nut-free, adaptable for dairy-free and gluten-free diets with substitutions.

Expanded Conclusion

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is the kind of recipe that proves simple cooking can still be deeply satisfying. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you get a meal that is hearty, flavorful, and dependable—perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade and nourishing.

This dish strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it ideal for families, meal preppers, and anyone who appreciates straightforward cooking done well. Once you try it, it’s likely to become one of those recipes you return to again and again.

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