Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in 20 Minutes Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
