There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal. Especially when the weather turns chilly! I remember as a kid, my grandma would often whip up something like this – a hearty blend of pasta, veggies, and sausage, all cooked together in a single pan. The aroma wo
uld fill the house, promising a warm and satisfying dinner. This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner.Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo
Let’s be honest, we all want meals that are delicious and don’t take hours to prepare. This recipe delivers on both fronts. Here’s why you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation:
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks in a single large skillet.
- Flavor Explosion: The savory chicken sausage pairs beautifully with the slightly bitter broccoli and the nutty orzo.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes! Seriously, you can have dinner on the table tonight.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand (more on that below!).
- Healthy-ish: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish is a balanced and satisfying meal.
What You’ll Need: The Ingredient List
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, it’s a pretty standard pantry situation!
- Chicken Sausage: 1 pound (any flavor you like – Italian, sweet apple, hot – they all work!)
- Orzo Pasta: 1 1/2 cups (about 6 ounces)
- Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (roughly 4-5 cups)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups (low sodium preferred)
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (oil-packed): 1/2 cup, drained and chopped (adds a lovely tang!)
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish – optional)
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt & Black Pepper: To taste
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now for the fun part! This recipe is incredibly straightforward.
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Onion
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave the flavorful renderings in the pan – that’s where all the magic happens!
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Garlic & Broccoli
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for just 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don’t let it burn!
Now, toss in the broccoli florets. Stir to coat them with the oil and flavor. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly soften the broccoli. We want them tender-crisp, not mushy.
Step 3: Introduce the Orzo and Broth
Stir in the orzo pasta until it’s coated in the oil and vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the orzo is submerged. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Sausage
Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken sausage and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and everything is nicely combined.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. Offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a great base recipe. Feel free to customize it to your liking!
- Veggie Power: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions.
- Spice It Up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Dreamy: For a creamier dish, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end. (About 1/4 – 1/2 cup)
- Different Protein: Swap out the chicken sausage for Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even cooked shrimp.
- Cheese Please: Try using a different cheese besides Parmesan – Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a little bit of mozzarella would be delicious.
- Lemon Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping. It also makes excellent leftovers – the flavors meld even more overnight!
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving – based on 6 servings)
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 420-480
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Fiber: 4-6g
Ready to Dig In?
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a weeknight champion! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly long ingredient list; you likely have most of these items already. Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations and any additions you make! Happy cooking!
