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Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delightful dish that brings together robust flavors and hearty ingredients, making it a standout choice for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With juicy sliced chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo enveloped in a delightful broth, this meal is not just about filling the stomach but also about warming the heart. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; it quickly became a family favorite, combining ease of preparation with wholesome nutrition—perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still crave something truly satisfying.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The beauty of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo lies in its unique combination of flavors and textures. This dish is a mosaic of vibrant broccoli florets, savory sausage, and creamy orzo, all cooked together in one skillet. Not only is it budget-friendly and family-approved, but it also comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner. Its one-pan nature means less cleanup, which is always an added bonus.
"This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a hit with the kids. They love the combination of sausage and broccoli, and I love how nutritious it is!" – A satisfied home cook
Your Easy Cooking Guide
Making Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is an uncomplicated process that anyone can master, whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:
- Cook the chicken sausage until it’s perfectly browned.
- Sauté the aromatic garlic and onion for a flavor base.
- Add the broccoli and orzo, stir in the broth, and let it simmer until everything is cooked to perfection.
- Mix in the sausage again, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and enjoy!
This streamlined process allows for quick preparation without sacrificing flavor.
Gather Your Ingredients
To whip up this delectable dish, here’s what you’ll need:
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- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together harmoniously, creating a comforting meal. If you’re looking to switch things up, turkey sausage or different vegetables like spinach could work beautifully in this recipe.
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken sausage slices until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant—about 2 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until they start to become tender.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is cooked, add the browned chicken sausage back to the skillet, mixing everything together well.
- Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Perfect Pairings for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
While Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance your dining experience with a few simple additions. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables also pairs wonderfully, complementing the dish’s savory profile.
Best Way to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
To keep your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy texture. For longer storage, feel free to freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months—just remember to label them!
Expert Advice
Here are some handy tips to make your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo even more delightful:
- Cook the Sausage First: Browning the sausage first helps deepen the flavor, so don’t rush this step.
- Mind the Orzo: Stir the orzo occasionally as it cooks to prevent it from sticking together.
- Add Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic and onion for added zest.
Creative Twists
Looking to personalize this dish? Here are a few creative variations:
- Flavored Broth: Experiment with homemade broth or add herbs like basil or thyme for additional flavor.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan works beautifully, try feta or goat cheese for a different twist.
- Vegetarian Style: Swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives or even chickpeas for a protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Typically, this dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth if needed.
What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
Feel free to mix in vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or spinach! Just adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be shared with family and friends! As you enjoy your culinary creation, let the rich flavors and aromas envelop you in comfort.
Print
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful dish featuring juicy chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo, all cooked together in one skillet.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken sausage slices until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 3–4 minutes until they start to become tender.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Add the browned chicken sausage back to the skillet, mixing everything together well.
- Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Feel free to substitute turkey sausage or different vegetables like spinach for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo, quick dinner, one-pan meal, family-friendly
