Dinner

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Healthy, Easy Skillet Meal for the Family Recipe

Byreem everly November 20, 2025November 20, 2025

Introduction

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a simple, flavorful one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken sausage, crisp broccoli, and tender orzo pasta. It’s a quick and healthy dinner perfect for busy families or meal prep enthusiasts.

A white bowl is filled with three main layers: the first layer is small, pale yellow orzo pasta with a smooth texture covering the bottom; the second layer includes bright green broccoli florets and small pieces of reddish-brown cooked bacon scattered throughout; the third layer on top is made up of sliced, browned sausage pieces with a slightly crispy texture, sprinkled with white grated cheese and finished with a small green sprig of rosemary in the center. The bowl is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken sausage (Italian or mild, sliced)
2 cups orzo pasta (uncooked)
2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Add the orzo to the same skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to lightly toast the pasta.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir in dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Serve warm with grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter dish, substitute chicken sausage with low-fat or turkey sausage.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.
Toast the orzo before adding broth to bring out richer flavors.
Use homemade or low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt level.
Cover the skillet while simmering to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the orzo moist.

How to Serve

A dark brown bowl filled with a dish of orzo pasta mixed with bright green broccoli florets, small round slices of browned sausage, and crispy reddish-brown bacon bits, all topped with a sprinkle of white grated cheese and a few green sprigs of rosemary for garnish. The orzo has a light yellow color and a slightly oily texture, sitting beneath the other ingredients which are evenly spread on the top layer. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with pork, turkey, or plant-based sausages depending on your preference. Adjust cooking time if needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.