Savory Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo: A Quick and Delicious Meal

Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is the ultimate weeknight dinner – it’s quick, easy, and packed with delicious flavors. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and creamy orzo in a lemon-Parmesan sauce that will have your taste buds singing. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or a healthy dish to meal-prep, this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

To make this tasty dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz chicken sausage (pre-cooked), sliced into rounds
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets (small bite-size)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for this delicious Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe:

Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until browned.

Toast the Orzo and Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add the orzo and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Simmer the Dish

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking.

Add the Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes more. The orzo should be tender, and the broccoli should be bright green and crisp-tender. If the mixture looks a bit dry, add a splash of extra broth.

Make it Creamy

Turn off the heat and stir in the butter, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.

Nutritional Information

This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. A serving provides approximately 380 calories, 25g of protein, 14g of fat, and 37g of carbohydrates. The chicken sausage and broccoli offer a solid source of protein and fiber, while the Parmesan cheese and lemon add a touch of creaminess and brightness. To make this dish even healthier, you can reduce the amount of butter or cheese, or use a low-fat or dairy-free alternative.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Here are a few tips to ensure your Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Pre-Cooked Sausage: Opt for pre-cooked chicken sausage to save time and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep a close eye on the broccoli to prevent it from becoming mushy. You want it to be bright green and still have a slight bite.
• Adjust Cooking Times: If your orzo is still not quite tender after the 8-minute simmer, let it cook for an additional minute or two. Conversely, if the broccoli is cooked through before the orzo, remove it from the heat and set it aside until the orzo is ready.
• Reheat Gently: If you have leftovers, reheat the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas for mixing things up:

• Sausage Variations: Try using Italian, spicy, or even turkey sausage instead of the chicken sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute plant-based sausage or simply omit the sausage altogether.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or carrots to the dish.
• Pasta Swap: If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use another small, short pasta like ditalini or tubetti.
• Herb Variations: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Grilled Chicken Orzo Salad
• One-Pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo Orzo
• Boursin Orzo with Chicken
• Creamy Shrimp Orzo

FAQs About Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Can I add other vegetables to the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo?

Absolutely! This dish is versatile, and you can customize it by adding other vegetables. Consider incorporating bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or carrots for added flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times; add vegetables that require longer cooking times (like carrots) earlier, while quicker-cooking options (like spinach) can be added towards the end.

How can I make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. There are also plant-based cream alternatives available that can add creaminess if desired.

What type of chicken sausage works best for this recipe?

For optimal flavor, choose a chicken sausage that is pre-cooked and has seasonings you enjoy. Options like Italian or spinach and feta chicken sausage work particularly well. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider spicy chicken sausage. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning in the recipe accordingly!

Can I freeze Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a delightful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken sausage, and vibrant broccoli, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting and satisfying Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo dinner tonight!

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