Description
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and tender orzo pasta cooked together in savory chicken broth and finished with Parmesan cheese, it offers a comforting blend of protein and vegetables in every bite.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
Pantry
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté garlic and onion: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the garlic and onion. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is slightly tender but still crisp.
- Combine orzo and broth: Stir in the orzo pasta, followed by pouring in the 4 cups of chicken broth. Mix everything together, ensuring the orzo is submerged in the broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the orzo: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the orzo cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reintroduce chicken sausage: Once the orzo is cooked, add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat the sausage through for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish and season: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the dish and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and incorporated. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option and better control of saltiness.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and onion.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
