Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delightful one-pan dish that captures the essence of comfort food while delivering a wholesome, satisfying meal. The juicy chicken sausage paired with tender broccoli and creamy orzo creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory and slightly cheesy goodness from the Parmesan cheese, making it hard to resist.
Perfect for dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it suitable for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings with friends and family. Its vibrant colors and appealing aroma make it a fantastic choice for showcasing your cooking skills, even if you’re short on time.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant, about 3 minutes. This step builds a flavor base that enhances the entire dish.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until they start to become slightly tender, about 4 minutes. The bright green color adds to the dish’s visual appeal.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth. The orzo will become creamy, creating a rich consistency.
- Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the pan, mix well, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Pro Tips
- Choosing the Right Sausage: Opt for a chicken sausage with minimal additives or preservatives for a healthier dish. Flavor varieties like garlic or Italian herbs can enhance your recipe significantly.
- Broth Versatility: If you want a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- Cooking Orzo: Stirring the orzo occasionally while it cooks is essential to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adding Texture: For a bit of crunch, consider topping your dish with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts before serving.
- Keep Water Handy: If the orzo absorbs the liquid too quickly before cooking, adding a splash of water or more broth will help it finish cooking perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The flavor profile of this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is wonderfully balanced. The savory notes of the sausage pair beautifully with the freshness of the broccoli, while the orzo absorbs all the delicious juices, creating a dish that’s rich in taste and satisfying to eat. You’ll appreciate the creamy texture from the broth and cheese, making each bite comforting.
This dish is straightforward and requires minimal cleanup since it’s made in just one skillet. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet nutritious. Additionally, it caters well to various diets, offering a wholesome meal that can suit many preferences.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
For a beautiful presentation, serve your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in shallow bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprig of parsley. This adds a pop of color and elegance to your meal.
Pair it with a simple arugula or mixed green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish nicely, enhancing the dining experience.
How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the orzo in a freezer-safe container; it should keep well for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply microwave the portion you want for a quick meal.
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne during cooking.
- Timing: Keep a close eye on the orzo while it cooks to achieve your desired tenderness.
- Flavor Boost: Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing element to the dish.
Variation Ideas
- Vegan: Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or spicy sausage for a kick.
- Low-Carb: Replace orzo with cauliflower rice to make a low-carb version while still enjoying the same flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or any gluten-free pasta as a substitute to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
This dish offers a good source of protein and fiber while remaining relatively low in sugar. The chicken sausage adds a hearty feel, making it a filling option for dinner.
Storage and Reheating
To reheat, simply place the serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel—microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The stovetop method helps maintain the dish’s creamy consistency better than the microwave.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to adjust the flavors by experimenting with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh basil or thyme can elevate the dish, while incorporating sun-dried tomatoes can add a delightful burst of flavor. You can also change the vegetables, adding spinach or kale for a nutritional boost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Broccoli: Keep a close watch while cooking the broccoli; you want it tender, not mushy. A bright green color indicates it’s just right.
- Not Stirring the Orzo: Forgetting to stir can lead to clumps; keep it moving in the pot for an even texture.
- Skimping on Seasoning: Seasoning at each step enhances the overall flavor, so don’t skip this crucial step.
- Using Cold Broth: Make sure your broth is at least room temperature before adding it to the orzo to prevent uneven cooking.
Serving Occasions
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, cozy family meals, or when entertaining friends with its eye-pleasing colors and delicious flavors. It’s also great for meal prep, giving you something tasty to enjoy throughout the week.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes this recipe unique is its balance of convenience and taste. In just one pan, you can create a meal that feels gourmet yet remains totally approachable. It brings together comforting ingredients that everyone loves, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying taste without hours in the kitchen.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the chicken sausage with something else?
Absolutely! You can replace it with turkey sausage, tofu, or even omit it for a vegetarian dish.
2. What type of broth is best for this recipe?
Using low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth allows you to control the saltiness and enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Consider using spicy chicken sausage, adding crushed red pepper flakes, or incorporating fresh chili peppers into the sauté.
4. Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving for an easy meal.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth keeps it creamy, but microwaving works in a pinch as well!
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is approximate, and ingredient variations may occur based on individual brands and preparation methods.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage slices over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until slightly tender, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
- Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the pan, mix well, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.