Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, this one-pan wonder is a real game-changer. The magic happens as the orzo simmers in a flavorful broth with savory chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and a medley of seasonings, creating a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

I stumbled upon this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo skillet recipe during a dinner rut, and it quickly became a household favorite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability – you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or protein. The secret to its success? Quality ingredients, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a food lover searching for a new go-to recipe, this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
• Adaptable recipe that allows for versatile ingredient substitutions
• Creamy texture without heavy cream or cheese sauce
• Delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without a lot of effort.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with different vegetables, proteins, and seasonings based on what you have on hand.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in a single skillet, making it a convenient option.
• Creamy Texture: Cooking the orzo in the broth creates a rich and creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or cheese sauce.
• Bright and Balanced Flavor: The addition of fresh lemon juice at the end elevates the dish, adding brightness and balance to the flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Family Favorite: Loved by both adults and children, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables, this recipe offers a well-rounded and delicious meal option.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this flavorful and comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilize ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge, making this a cost-effective meal option for any day of the week.

Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup dried orzo pasta
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 12 oz chicken sausage, cut into half-inch pieces

Liquids & Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook sliced chicken sausage for 3-4 minutes until browned on both sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base

Pour the rest of the oil into the skillet. Saute diced onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Stir uncooked orzo in skillet for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast. Add chicken broth, scrape up brown bits, simmer, then cover and cook on medium-low for 8 minutes.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Sausage

Add broccoli florets and return browned sausage to skillet. Stir well, cover, and cook for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo has absorbed most of the broth.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Take the pan off the heat, then mix in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Storage Tips

To store the finished chicken sausage orzo skillet, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the skillet in a covered pan with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the orzo from becoming too dry as it absorbs more liquid while sitting.

For longer-term storage, the chicken sausage orzo skillet can be frozen for up to three months. It is recommended to slightly undercook the orzo initially to account for reheating during the thawing process. Upon reheating from frozen, add a bit more broth to help loosen the dish as the orzo’s texture may change slightly. Although the orzo may have a different texture after freezing, the flavors will still be delicious, making this dish a convenient make-ahead option for busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian version of this dish, you can easily substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. This swap will still provide the savory flavor and protein component to the dish. Alternatively, you can omit the sausage altogether and increase the amount of vegetables like broccoli or add in other favorites such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed orzo skillet.

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative like vegan Parmesan. This swap will still add a cheesy umami flavor to the dish without the use of dairy. Additionally, if you don’t have orzo on hand, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed based on the substitute you choose to ensure the dish cooks to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty and flavorful Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, add a glass of crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the dining experience.

For a fun twist on presentation, consider serving the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo in hollowed-out roasted bell peppers or acorn squash halves. Fill each vessel with the savory orzo mixture, top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This creative presentation adds a touch of elegance to the dish and makes for a visually appealing and delicious meal.

FAQs for Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey sausage, regular Italian sausage, or any other type of sausage you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked through before adding the other ingredients.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables or substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives.

Can I skip the lemon juice at the end?

While the lemon juice adds brightness and balance to the dish, you can skip it if you prefer. The dish will still taste delicious, but the lemon juice does enhance the overall flavor profile.

How can I store and reheat leftovers of this dish?

You can store leftover chicken sausage orzo skillet in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, gently warm it in a covered skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up, as the orzo may absorb more liquid over time. For freezing, slightly undercook the orzo initially and add more broth when reheating for best results.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your cooking, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity and heartiness of this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo dish. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe has a way of bringing comfort and joy to the table without the fuss. Isn’t it amazing how a few basic ingredients can come together to create such a flavorful and satisfying dish?

Remember that you can always put your own spin on this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo skillet, adding your favorite vegetables or protein to suit your taste. The versatility of this recipe makes it a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too. So whip up a batch, savor each bite, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo – your new go-to for easy, delicious meals that never disappoint.

Delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Recipe

“Effortlessly creamy and flavorful, this one-pan chicken sausage orzo skillet is a lifesaver for busy nights, with endless veggie variations and a bright lemon finish.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineItalian-American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup dried orzo pasta
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 12 oz chicken sausage, cut into half-inch pieces

Liquids & Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
• 2½ cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook sliced chicken sausage for 3-4 minutes until browned on both sides. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Build the Base: Pour the rest of the oil into the skillet. Saute diced onion until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Toast the Orzo: Stir uncooked orzo in skillet for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast. Add chicken broth, scrape up brown bits, simmer, then cover and cook on medium-low for 8 minutes.
4. Add Broccoli and Sausage: Add broccoli florets and return browned sausage to skillet. Stir well, cover, and cook for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo has absorbed most of the broth.
5. Finish and Serve: Take the pan off the heat, then mix in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.