One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

A Creamy Delight for Any Night

One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli has become one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s the kind of dish that combines comfort food with an impressive presentation, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or even a casual gathering. The creamy texture of orzo mingled with the savory chicken sausage and tender broccoli creates a symphony of flavors. Plus, the best part? This dish comes together in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the table!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What’s not to love about a meal that’s both quick to prepare and utterly satisfying? This One-Pan Creamy Orzo is not only budget-friendly, but it also appeals to all ages, making it ideal for family dinners. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a deliciously creamy dish that feels indulgent but is wholesome at its core. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal when time is limited, or when you’re craving something heartwarming yet easy.

"I tried this recipe last week, and my kids couldn’t get enough! It’s delicious, filling, and super easy to make. We will be making this again!" – A happy home cook

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Cooking One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is simple and rewarding. The process is straightforward, which means you don’t have to be a pro chef to impress anyone. Begin by browning the chicken sausage, which infuses the dish with rich flavor. Then, add garlic for that aromatic punch, toss in orzo and let it soak up the broth until tender. Finally, mix in the broccoli and parmesan for an irresistible creamy finish. This guide helps you navigate the steps with ease!

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced (feel free to use any preferred variety)
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed (fresh or frozen work well)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated (substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
4. Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the flavorful oils.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente.
7. Mix in the steamed broccoli and parmesan cheese, stirring well until creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

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Tips for Serving

Serving One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is all about enhancement. Try garnishing with extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can pair it with a simple side salad for a fresh crunch, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup.

Best Way to Store One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To extend its life, you can freeze the mixture for up to three months. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore the creaminess. Always ensure that leftovers are cooled to room temperature before placing them in the fridge or freezer to ensure safe food handling.

Expert Advice

Here are some practical tips to elevate your cooking experience:

• Add Flavor: Consider including spices like Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Cook the Broccoli Separately: For a vibrant color and added crunch, steam the broccoli apart from the orzo and fold it in at the end.
• Don’t Skip the Cheese: For maximum creaminess, ensure you’re using freshly grated parmesan cheese, as pre-grated options often contain anti-caking agents.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Customize this dish by adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spinach for diverse textures and flavors. You could substitute chicken sausage with turkey or plant-based sausages for a different protein source. And if you’re looking for a lighter version, try replacing half of the orzo with zucchini noodles!

Your Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to make this dish?
A: From start to finish, you can enjoy this meal in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q: What if I have leftover orzo?
A: You can store leftover orzo in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed fresh, as it may absorb too much moisture when stored.

Cooking should be enjoyable and stress-free, and this One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli exemplifies just that! Enjoy the delightful flavors and ease of preparation, and make it a memorable meal for everyone at the table.

One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free option available

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Description

A comforting and creamy one-pan dish combining orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, and tender broccoli, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the orzo pasta and stir to coat it in the flavorful oils.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is al dente.
7. Mix in the steamed broccoli and parmesan cheese, stirring well until creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: creamy orzo, chicken sausage, one-pan meals, weeknight dinner, pasta