Easy Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo
This easy Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe is a one-pan wonder that's ready in under 30 minutes. It features perfectly cooked orzo pasta mingling with savory chicken sausage and tender broccoli florets in a light, flavorful sauce, making it a comforting and healthy-ish weeknight meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, removed from casings
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Remove sausage from casings if necessary.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the broth is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the orzo is absorbing the liquid too quickly, add a little more broth.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
- Stir in the cooked sausage, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy! Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if dry. Italian sausage, spinach, kale, bell peppers, or frozen broccoli can be substituted. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.