Making creamy orzo with chicken sausage and broccoli is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket after a long day. The dish is comforting yet vibrant—each forkful sings of hearty chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and the creamy embrace of parmesan. I stumbled upon this recipe one chilly evening when I needed something quick yet satisfying. It quickly became a staple in my household, a go-to meal that’s both fulfilling and simple to whip up, especially when time is tight.
Why you’ll love this dish
Let’s talk about why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those weeknights when you don’t want to spend ages in the kitchen. The beauty of creamy orzo lies in its versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can craft a meal that feels extravagant but won’t break the bank. Plus, the combination of chicken sausage and broccoli is a surefire kid pleaser, and let’s be honest, getting kids to eat their greens can sometimes feel like a small triumph!
"Tried this for dinner last night, and my family couldn’t stop raving about it! Easy to make and perfectly creamy. Definitely adding this to our favorites!" – A Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Ready to see how this magic unfolds? The process is straightforward, and in no time, you’ll have a creamy dish that delights both the eyes and the palate. You simply sauté the sausage, add the garlic, then toss in the orzo with broth, and wait. It’s a lovely little dance of flavors coming together, with the broccoli joining in at the last minute, ensuring it retains that delightful crunch.
What you’ll need
To make this creamy dream come true, gather the following:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Feel free to get creative! If you’re looking for a lighter twist, turkey sausage works beautifully. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some cherry tomatoes or spinach for an extra punch of color and nutrients.
Cooking method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it shimmer slightly before moving to the next step.
- Toss in the sliced chicken sausage, cooking until they’re beautifully browned and start to release their savory flavors.
- Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Stir in the orzo pasta along with the broth. Bring everything to a boil—this is where you can feel the excitement bubbling!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Just before it’s fully done, fold in the broccoli florets, allowing them to steam and soften for a couple of minutes.
- When the orzo is creamy and the broccoli is bright green, take it off the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until it’s melted and everything feels deliciously combined.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it warm.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this dish, keep it simple to let those rich flavors shine. A light sprinkle of additional parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes can make a lovely finishing touch. You might also consider a side salad with a bright vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread or a slice of lemony focaccia pairs well for those cozy meal vibes.
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! Store any uneaten creamy orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover your dish to retain moisture—nobody likes dry pasta!
Pro chef tips
Here are a few tricks I’ve learned that can elevate this dish:
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess. The pre-grated stuff just doesn’t have the same impact.
- If you find the orzo thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add more broth gradually—adjusting to your desired consistency is key!
- Experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy sausage can add a delightful kick, while sweet Italian sausage brings a warm, savory flavor.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to keep things exciting:
- Swap out the chicken sausage for Italian turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Add in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Try using another grain, like quinoa or farro, if you want to switch things up completely.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 20-25 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Creamy orzo can be frozen, but expect a slight change in texture when reheating. Just cool it completely first, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage entirely and add mushrooms or chickpeas instead. You can also use gluten-free orzo to cater to dietary needs.
Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage, cooking until browned and flavorful.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
- Fold in the broccoli florets in the last couple of minutes to steam.
- Remove from heat, stir in the parmesan cheese until melted, and season with salt and pepper.