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

4.9 from 117 reviews

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan skillet meal featuring juicy chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. Ideal for busy families and meal prep, it combines Mediterranean-inspired herbs and a touch of Parmesan for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

Seasonings and Liquids

  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional

  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Orzo: In the same skillet, add the orzo pasta and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to lightly toast the pasta and enhance its flavor.
  3. Add the Broccoli and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, then sprinkle the dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything gently and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
  4. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir to combine all ingredients evenly. Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For a lighter dish, opt for low-fat or turkey sausage.
  • Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost nutrition.
  • Toast the orzo before adding the broth to bring out deeper flavors.
  • Use homemade or low-sodium broth to control salt content.
  • Cover the skillet while simmering to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Keywords: Chicken sausage, orzo pasta, broccoli, skillet meal, healthy dinner, quick meal, Mediterranean recipe, one-pan meal