Ready for a bowl of creamy, savory goodness?
If you haven’t yet tried Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, prepare your taste buds for an adventure! This dish is everything you crave: hearty, wholesome, and quick to whip up. Plus, it’s all made in one pan. Can we say easy cleanup? 🙌 Trust me, this meal is destined to become a weeknight hero.
Why make this recipe
Why will you absolutely love this? First off, it’s family-friendly — goodbye dinner dilemmas! Secondly, it’s quick to make, meaning you can spend more time enjoying your evening instead of slaving in the kitchen. And let’s be honest, can anything beat that garlic aroma wafting through the house? No, I think not!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 links chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps:
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo with the sausage and broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo (Overview)
Now, let’s chat about the magic of this dish! Start by cooking that orzo — it sets the base for all the yumminess to come. While it’s bubbling away, heat olive oil in a skillet until it’s shimmering with promise. Toss in the chicken sausage and get it all crispy and golden; that’s where the flavor kicks in! Don’t skip toasting the garlic either — it makes all the difference! Add in the broccoli to give it a vibrant pop, and finally, mix in your orzo. Voila! Dinner is ready, and it smells heavenly.
How to serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serving this dish is a piece of cake! Picture a vibrant, green broccoli contrasting against the golden sausage and creamy orzo. It’s not just a meal; it’s a colorful feast for the eyes! You can sprinkle it with some freshly grated Parmesan for an extra kick, or even toss in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous (who doesn’t love a little heat?). Serve it warm, and let the enticing aroma fill your dinner table.
How to store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’re all set. If you want to make it ahead of time, it freezes well for about 2 months. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stove — a splash of additional olive oil or broth can bring back that creamy texture.
Tips to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Perfect timing: Cook the orzo just until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when you combine it with the sausage and broccoli.
- Ingredient swaps: Feel free to switch out chicken sausage for turkey or even veggie sausage for a lighter option!
- Add more veggies: Sneak in some bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition!
- Creamy goodness: Want a creamier finish? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end.
- Garnish galore: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a lovely garnish that brightens up the dish!
Variation
Feeling experimental? Try adding lemon zest for a refreshing twist, or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair. If you’re in a mood for a vegan version, swap out the chicken sausage for chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yep! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I use if I don’t have orzo?
Pasta shapes like small shells or even rice can work in a pinch. Just keep an eye on the cooking times!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 links chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo with the sausage and broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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