Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a bright, comforting main course that comes together quicker than you might expect, yet feels special enough for a family gathering or an indulgent weeknight dinner. Imagine juicy slices of hearty chicken sausage tossed with vibrant broccoli and tender orzo pasta, all cozied up in a savory chicken broth and finished with a dreamy blanket of Parmesan cheese. This one-pot wonder packs layers of flavor, pops of color, and satisfying texture—all with minimal fuss. Whether you’re chasing a quick meal or searching for a feel-good crowd-pleaser, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is about to become your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those genius recipes where simple, everyday ingredients team up to create something truly crave-worthy. Each element adds its own spark, from the slight snap of chicken sausage to the creamy finish of parmesan—there’s zero filler here, just flavor-packed essentials.

• Chicken Sausage: Sliced into coins, it brings savory depth and a hearty kick without a lot of extra fat.
• Broccoli Florets: Their gentle crunch and earthy flavor add vibrant color and balance to the dish.
• Orzo Pasta: This tiny, rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the delicious broth, creating a luxurious, creamy texture.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses real warmth and irresistible aroma as it cooks.
• Onion: Chopped onion sweetens as it sautés, building the base of savory flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Rich and comforting, it acts as both the cooking liquid for the orzo and a carrier for all the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts into the orzo for pure comfort.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for brightening and balancing the overall taste—season to your liking.

How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sliced chicken sausage until each side is golden brown and slightly crispy. This not only gives the sausage great flavor, but also leaves delicious browned bits, known as fond, on the bottom of the skillet—trust me, you don’t want to waste that! Remove the sausage to a plate, but don’t wipe the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion

In the same skillet (so all that flavor stays in play!), add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re aromatic and softened, about 3–4 minutes. This step is where the kitchen starts to smell incredible and sets the foundation for your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets right into the skillet. Stir and let them cook with the onions and garlic until they’re just starting to get bright green and tender, which usually takes 2–3 minutes. You want them to hold their shape and a little crunch—they’ll continue to cook as the dish comes together.

Step 4: Simmer with Orzo and Broth

Pour in the orzo and chicken broth, making sure the orzo is submerged. Stir, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10–12 minutes. The orzo will soften and absorb all the savory, flavorful liquid, while the broccoli turns perfectly tender. Just give it a gentle stir halfway through to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with Sausage and Parmesan

Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet and toss everything together until warmed through and well combined. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese all over the top, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the hot orzo, coating every bite with cozy, creamy flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Garnishes

A final flourish goes a long way! Freshly cracked black pepper, a shower of extra Parmesan, or even chopped parsley adds lift and makes Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo look as good as it tastes. For a little zip, a squeeze of lemon or red pepper flakes also works wonders.

Side Dishes

While Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is hearty enough on its own, you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad, a side of crusty bread, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra brightness. These simple sides keep the focus on your main attraction while elevating the overall spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo into shallow bowls and serve family-style at the table, or pile it into roasted bell pepper halves for a casual, colorful dinner party vibe. Individual ramekins or oven-safe dishes topped with an extra layer of bubbly Parmesan are also a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its flavors or texture—perfect for meal prep or easy lunches!

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions for later, let the orzo cool completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and store for up to 2 months. The texture may soften a bit after thawing, but the taste will remain deeply comforting.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the orzo and restore its creamy goodness. Finish with a little extra Parmesan for best results.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage works perfectly and will keep the dish just as flavorful. You can even try a spicy or herbed variety to put your own twist on Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo.

What’s the best way to cut broccoli for this recipe?

Cut broccoli into bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and mingle nicely with the orzo and sausage. If your florets are bigger, just slice them in half for maximum surface area and tender bites.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a meal prep champion! It holds up well in the fridge, reheats like a dream, and makes hearty lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Can I add other vegetables?

Go for it! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach would be fantastic additions to Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. Just add them along with the broccoli to keep everything cooked just right.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular orzo for a trusted gluten-free version, and double-check that your sausage and broth are gluten-free. The texture and flavor will still be wonderful.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a meal that’s easy, vibrant, and endlessly comforting, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo should be at the top of your list. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you—once you try it, it’s bound to earn a regular spot on your table!

Print