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Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
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A quick, wholesome, and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting dish balances protein, vegetables, and carbs with minimal cleanup and kid-friendly flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • Chicken sausage, pre-cooked or fresh, sliced into bite-sized pieces (about 12 oz)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • Fresh broccoli florets, about 2 cups
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Pasta & Broth

  • 1 cup dry orzo pasta
  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth

Oils & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste

Finishing Touches

  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sausage and aromatics: Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sausage and cook until browned. Toss in diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant to build a flavorful base.
  2. Cook the orzo: Add the dry orzo to the skillet, stirring it around to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta, creating extra depth in the dish.
  3. Add broccoli and broth: Pour in fresh broccoli florets and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green and just tender-crisp.
  4. Finish with cheese and seasoning: Once cooked, remove the lid and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. This is the moment when everything melds into a creamy, dreamy consistency.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Spoon the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo onto plates while steaming hot, ready to impress your family or guests with a simple yet satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use high-quality sausage with good seasoning or fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli; keep it slightly crisp for texture and nutrients.
  • Toasting the orzo enhances flavor beyond just boiling.
  • Save some Parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top before serving.
  • Cook in a wide skillet to allow orzo to cook evenly and reduce sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken sausage, broccoli, orzo, one-pan meal, easy dinner, healthy recipe, quick recipe, family dinner

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/chicken-sausage-and-broccoli-orzo/