Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delicious and easy one-pot meal. It brings together hearty chicken sausage, nutritious broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want a satisfying and healthy dinner. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and can be made in around 30 minutes!
Table of Contents
how to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
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)
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving (optional).
how to serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo hot in a bowl. You can add extra Parmesan cheese on top for more flavor. This dish goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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tips to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- For extra flavor, try using different types of sausage, such as spicy or garlic sausage.
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; it should still be a bit crunchy for the best texture.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in with the garlic.
variations
You can add other vegetables to this dish, like bell peppers or spinach, to customize it to your taste. You can also swap out the Parmesan for another cheese like feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat orzo instead of regular orzo?
Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo. It will give the dish a nuttier flavor and add extra fiber.
2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water, but broth will add more flavor.
3. How long does this dish take to prepare?
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced) Any flavor can be used.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Do not overcook; should remain crunchy.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Can substitute with feta or mozzarella.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped) For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Optionally, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.