Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in 20 Minutes Recipe

Introduction

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a quick, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender orzo pasta with savory chicken sausage and fresh broccoli, making a comforting meal ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When shimmering, add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for about one minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and turn a vibrant green.
4. Step 4: Pour in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
5. Step 5: Cover the pot and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Step 6: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Step 7: Serve the orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Use turkey or pork sausage as an alternative to chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
• Stir in a handful of spinach or kale along with the broccoli for extra greens.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well as a substitute and keeps the dish flavorful while making it suitable for vegetarians if you also substitute the sausage.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free orzo pasta or substitute with another small gluten-free pasta to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in 20 Minutes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 91 reviews

This quick and delicious Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is the perfect weeknight dinner. Combining tender orzo pasta with flavorful chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and a savory blend of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

• Author: reem
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Orzo

• 2 cups orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Finishing Touch

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot with the sausage and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the flavor base of the dish.
3. Cook Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté them with the sausage and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and turn a vibrant green, retaining some crunch.
4. Add Orzo and Broth: Pour in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
5. Simmer the Orzo: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the orzo cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy, enriching the dish with a cheesy texture.
7. Garnish and Serve: Serve the orzo hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Notes

• You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a different protein option.
• If you prefer softer broccoli, cook it a bit longer before adding the orzo.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or milk when stirring in the Parmesan cheese.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content, especially if you are watching sodium intake.

Keywords: chicken sausage orzo, broccoli orzo, quick chicken dinner, one pot meal, fast weeknight recipe