Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Chicken sausage and broccoli orzo is one of those weeknight saviors that feels both hearty and fresh I started making this dish after searching for fast meals that use up bits of produce and I have never looked back The combination of tender orzo savory sausage and vibrant broccoli all wrapped up in a creamy Parmesan finish has become a dinnertime staple around here

The first time I made this was when I needed to empty my fridge before vacation It was such a hit that now I keep the ingredients stocked year round My son always asks for extra Parmesan on top

Gather Your Ingredients

• Orzo pasta: Tender and satisfying makes the dish creamy choose a brand that holds its shape well
• Olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the sausage opt for extra virgin if you can
• Chicken sausage: Savory and lean choose one with herbs for extra flavor or a hint of spice for zip
• Broccoli florets: Bright veggie addition use fresh for best results and pick crowns with deep green color
• Garlic: Gives amazing aroma and depth fresher cloves last longer and add more punch
• Chicken broth: Adds richness and ties everything together look for a broth with low sodium for control
• Italian seasoning: Blends herbs for warmth and earthiness reach for a mix with oregano and basil
• Salt and pepper: Essentials for highlighting all the flavors taste as you go
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings creaminess and nutty finish always grate fresh for melty texture
• Fresh parsley: Optional garnish but gives fresh color and herb boost flat leaf holds up best

How to Make It

Brown the Sausage:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for about seven minutes Stir often until each piece is deeply browned This step brings savory flavor to every bite

Sauté the Garlic:

Add minced garlic directly into the pot with the sausage Cook for just one minute The goal is to release the aroma but not burn it Stir the garlic constantly as it finishes

Add the Broccoli:

Stir in the broccoli florets and let them cook for around three minutes You want the broccoli bright green and just starting to soften so it will finish cooking with the orzo

Simmer with Orzo and Broth:

Add the orzo pasta chicken broth Italian seasoning salt and pepper Stir well to combine everything together Increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil Once bubbling reduce the heat to a low simmer

Cook the Orzo:

Cover the pot with a lid Let it simmer for ten to twelve minutes Open occasionally to stir and scrape the bottom so the orzo does not stick When the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed you are ready for the final step

Finish with Parmesan:

Turn off the heat Remove the pot from the stove and add grated Parmesan cheese Stir persistently until all the cheese melts The mixture should look creamy and glossy

Garnish and Serve:

Spoon the warm orzo into bowls Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like Serve immediately while it is hot and cheesy

Parmesan cheese is hands down my favorite part of this dish I once let my little one sprinkle on the cheese and now it is a family tradition We call it the finishing touch

Flavor Boosters

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days This dish reheats beautifully with a splash of extra broth to revive the creamy texture

Serving Suggestions

This orzo makes a complete meal but it is wonderful with a crisp green salad or some toasted garlic bread A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving makes the flavors pop

Creative Twists

Turkey sausage works just as well as chicken sausage For more color swap in some red bell pepper with the broccoli If you need a dairy free option try nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan

With only ten ingredients a single big pot and lots of comforting flavor this chicken sausage and broccoli orzo wins over picky eaters and home cooks alike It is no surprise this simple meal has earned a regular spot on my dinner table

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What is the best way to cook chicken sausage for this dish?

Slice the chicken sausage and brown it in olive oil over medium heat until nicely caramelized, about 5-7 minutes, which enhances flavor and texture.

→ How do I know when the orzo is cooked properly?

The orzo should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite after simmering 10-12 minutes; it should have absorbed most of the broth without becoming mushy.

→ Can I substitute broccoli with another vegetable?

Yes, vegetables like spinach or asparagus work well to maintain freshness and complement the savory sausage and orzo flavors.

→ Should I use fresh garlic or garlic powder?

Fresh minced garlic is preferred for its robust aroma and flavor, added early during cooking for best results.

→ How is the dish typically garnished?

Fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese finish the dish, adding color and a savory touch that enhances taste and presentation.