This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together savory chicken sausage, crisp broccoli, and creamy orzo in perfect harmony. Savor the delicious fusion of chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and creamy orzo in this quick and nutritious one-pan meal—ideal for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find this dish becomes a fast favorite in your recipe rotation. The tender, bite-sized orzo soaks up the flavorful chicken broth, while the garlic-infused olive oil and a hint of lemon juice lift the flavors to a bright, zesty peak.
Not only is this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo beginner-friendly, but it’s also versatile enough to double as a hearty lunch or a light dinner. In under 30 minutes you’ll have a meal that looks as impressive as it tastes—no fancy techniques required. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, entertaining friends, or treating yourself to a flavorful solo supper, this pasta-centric dish checks every box. With a touch of Parmesan cheese melting into each spoonful and optional red pepper flakes for those who crave a little heat, your taste buds will thank you for its comforting creaminess and savory depth.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN SAUSAGE BROCCOLI ORZO
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients that each play a special role in building flavor and texture. In this section, we’ll break down what you need and why each item earns its spot in the skillet.
- Chicken sausage
Lean and packed with protein, chicken sausage delivers a smoky-savory backbone to the dish. Sliced into rounds, it browns beautifully, creating caramelized edges that add depth.
- Orzo pasta
Tiny and rice-shaped, orzo cooks up tender in just about ten minutes. Its surface area soaks up chicken broth, garlic, and olive oil, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Broccoli florets
Bright green and full of nutrients, broccoli adds a pleasing crunch and visual pop. Steaming it separately keeps it tender-crisp so it doesn’t overcook when combined.
- Olive oil
Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil brings a fruity richness that carries garlic aromas and helps toast the orzo before simmering.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the oil with pungent, aromatic notes that elevate the entire pan. It’s the little flavor booster that makes a big difference.
- Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the hot orzo, creating a creamy, cheesy finish and a salty umami kick that ties everything together.
- Red pepper flakes
A pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle warmth and gentle heat. They’re optional but highly recommended for those who appreciate a mild kick.
- Chicken broth
The cooking liquid for the orzo, chicken broth adds savory depth. As it reduces, it leaves behind concentrated flavor that clings to every grain.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that allow you to balance and adjust the overall taste profile. They highlight flavors without overpowering.
- Lemon juice
A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the richness, cutting through creaminess with a refreshing citrus tang.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley lends a burst of herbal freshness and a vibrant green garnish that makes each plate look cheery and appetizing.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN SAUSAGE BROCCOLI ORZO
Bringing this dish together is a breeze when you follow these clear, step-by-step instructions. From browning the sausage to stirring in the final handful of cheese, each step ensures maximum flavor and perfect texture.
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until the edges are deeply browned and the sausage is heated through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to rest.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and all of the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic releases its fragrance and turns just golden—be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it by cooking, stirring continuously, for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the orzo turning slightly opaque and picking up a nutty aroma.
4. Carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the orzo is al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed.
5. While the orzo simmers, steam the broccoli florets until they’re just tender-crisp. You can use a steamer basket on the stovetop or microwave them with a lid and splash of water for 2–3 minutes.
6. Once the orzo is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet and add the steamed broccoli. If you’re in the mood for a little spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes now and stir to combine.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring gently so the cheese melts into a creamy coating.
8. Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately, while it’s still warm and the flavors are at their peak.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN SAUSAGE BROCCOLI ORZO
Once your Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is sizzling hot and beautifully garnished, it’s time to think about how to present it for the ultimate dining experience. Whether you’re plating a solo dinner, feeding a family, or hosting friends, a few thoughtful touches can turn this simple one-pan wonder into a memorable meal. From choosing the right sides to selecting the perfect beverage pairing, these ideas will help you elevate every forkful and make your table look Instagram-ready.
- Family-style platter
Transfer the orzo into a large, shallow serving dish and sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley over the top. Let everyone dig in straight from the center, fostering that cozy communal vibe.
- Boxed lunch upgrade
Portion the cooled orzo into airtight containers, then top with a lemon wedge and an extra drizzle of olive oil. Pack it alongside a crisp side salad for an easy, make-ahead lunch that reheats beautifully.
- Fresh garden side
Serve alongside a mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity and crisp vegetables create a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Casual dinner party
Spoon individual servings onto warmed plates, garnish each with a twist of lemon zest and a few red pepper flakes. Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied rosé to complement the dish’s citrusy notes.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN SAUSAGE BROCCOLI ORZO
If you end up with leftovers (and let’s be honest, you probably will!), proper storage will keep your orzo tasting fresh and delicious for days to come. Cooling and storing this one-pan meal the right way preserves its creamy texture and stops the broccoli from turning mushy. Here are key strategies to ensure your reheated portions taste just as good as the first feast.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Allow the orzo to cool slightly at room temperature (no more than 30 minutes), then transfer to a well-sealed container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay flavorful for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
- Freeze individual portions
For longer storage, divide into single-serving freezer bags or containers, pressing out excess air. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a little extra broth to revive the creamy consistency.
- Separate components
If you anticipate freezing, consider storing the orzo, sausage, and broccoli in separate containers. This prevents the broccoli from becoming too soft during thawing and gives you the option to fresh-steam veggies when serving.
- Refresh with fresh herbs
Store leftover parsley in a small sealed bag in the fridge to maintain its color and aroma. Add the chopped parsley only after reheating to keep its vibrant flavor and bright green appearance.
CONCLUSION
Bringing this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo to your table is like giving yourself permission to enjoy a rich, satisfying pasta dish without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. In just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time, you have a beginner-friendly, one-pan meal that tastes like it took hours to create. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family dinner, a midweek lunch, or even prepping ahead for tomorrow’s lunchbox, it’s the kind of versatile recipe that earns its place in your weekly repertoire. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—from the garlicky toasty orzo and bright broccoli to the savory bites of chicken sausage—this dish truly has something for everyone’s taste buds.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later use, tucking it into your recipe binder or pinning it on the fridge. You’ll also find a handy FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about ingredient swaps, reheating tips, or dietary adjustments. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Drop your comments, questions, or feedback below—whether it’s a flavor twist you discovered, a time-saving hack you tried, or simply how your family reacted. Your stories bring recipes like this to life, and I can’t wait to see how you make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo your own!
Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo
Description
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo brings together savory chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo for a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
-
Add the orzo to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until it starts to toast.
-
Add the chicken broth to the orzo, bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the broth is absorbed.
-
While the orzo is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp. This can be done in a microwave or on the stovetop.
-
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken sausage and steamed broccoli florets. If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes at this point.
-
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
-
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Note
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic.
- Substitute the chicken sausage with turkey or plant-based sausage for variety.
- Ensure the orzo is stirred frequently to prevent sticking to the skillet.
- This dish can be enjoyed hot, or serve it cold as a pasta salad alternative.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
