Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
When you are looking for a quick and delicious meal, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo hits the mark. This one-pot dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. You can prepare it in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or simple family dinners. The combination of chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are numerous reasons to make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. First, it is an all-in-one dish that offers a variety of flavors and textures. The savory chicken sausage adds depth, while fresh broccoli provides crunch and color. Orzo pasta gives the dish a creamy texture.
Making this recipe is also easy. You don’t need fancy cooking skills to get it right. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can serve a tasty meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak vegetables into your diet. If you’re trying to eat healthier, this dish includes lean protein from the chicken sausage and plenty of vitamins from the broccoli.
Another reason to make this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it in many ways. Whether you are a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or someone who simply loves good food, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo can fit into your lifestyle.
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Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A quick and delicious one-pot dish featuring chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Pour in orzo pasta and chicken broth; add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Now, let’s talk about the step-by-step process of making Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. Follow these instructions to create a delicious dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
To make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage (sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Directions
Heat Olive Oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This oil will help cook the chicken sausage and add flavor to the dish.
Cook Chicken Sausage: Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the sausage is browned. This step adds a nice crispy texture to the sausage, enhancing its flavor.
Add Garlic: Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 1 minute until you can smell the fragrant garlic. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Stir in Broccoli: Now it is time to add 2 cups of broccoli florets. Stir the broccoli in with the sausage and garlic. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until the broccoli begins to soften. This adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your dish.
Add Orzo and Broth: Pour in 2 cups of orzo pasta and 4 cups of chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10–12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so that the orzo and vegetables do not stick to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Add Parmesan Cheese: After cooking, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines well with the dish. This adds a creamy and rich flavor.
Garnish: To finalize the dish, garnish it with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. This brings a pop of color and freshness to your meal.
Serve: Enjoy your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo hot. You can add a splash of heavy cream if you prefer a creamier version.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serving Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is straightforward. You can serve it hot in bowls or on plates. This dish makes for a great main course, but you can also accompany it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
For a touch of elegance, consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving. If you like a little heat, serve it with a side of crushed red pepper flakes. This adds a spicy kick that pairs well with the savory flavors.
How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, storing Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is easy. Place the leftover dish in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When you are ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen it up, as orzo can absorb a lot of liquid as it cools.
If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Place the dish in a freezer-safe container and it can last for about 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Here are some handy tips to help you make the best Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo:
Choose Your Sausage: You can pick from different types of chicken sausage, such as spicy, sweet, or herb-flavored. Each will give the dish a unique taste.
Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh broccoli and garlic. They enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Cooking the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks. If it absorbs all the broth but is still not tender, you can always add a little more liquid and continue cooking.
Make it Creamy: If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk just before serving. This gives a rich finish to the dish.
Garnish: Fresh parsley is a must for garnish, as it adds flavor and makes the dish look appealing.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Add Other Vegetables: You can include other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These additions can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
Use Different Pasta: While orzo is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous.
Add Beans: For extra protein and fiber, you can mix in some white beans or chickpeas.
Make it Vegan: Replace chicken sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish vegan-friendly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen broccoli. Just be sure to add it to the pot a little later than you would fresh broccoli since it is already partially cooked.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free orzo pasta. There are many great options available in stores that mimic the texture and taste of traditional orzo.
Can I make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for a few days and also freezes nicely. Just be sure to reheat it properly.
With these tips and variations, you can personalize Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking experience and the delicious meal that awaits you!