🖋️ Written by Emma
Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a fantastic dish for several reasons. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its blend of savory chicken sausage, nutritious broccoli, and hearty orzo, this recipe strikes a great balance between flavor and health. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!
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, right from the pot. You can place it in bowls for individual servings, garnishing each bowl with extra chopped parsley or more Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.
How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
To store leftovers, let the orzo cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to help restore moisture.
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken sausage enhance the flavor.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning according to your taste. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or extra Italian herbs.
- Creamy Variation: For a richer taste, stir in heavy cream at the end for a creamier texture.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. For instance, replace broccoli with spinach or other greens. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas. If you’re not a fan of chicken sausage, turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage will work as well.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat orzo?
Yes, you can use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option. The cooking time may be slightly different, so check the package instructions.Is this dish gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains orzo, which is made from wheat. You can find gluten-free orzo made from rice or corn if you need a gluten-free option.Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve, adding a little more broth if needed.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- 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).
