Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
The aroma of sizzling chicken sausage wafts through the kitchen, filling the air with a tantalizing promise of comfort. Pair that with bright green broccoli and fluffy orzo pasta enveloped in a savory broth, and you’ve got a masterpiece ready to delight your taste buds. This Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
Table of Contents
I remember evenings spent gathering around the table with family, laughter echoing as we dug into comforting dishes like this one. It brings back memories of my grandmother showcasing her cooking skills, instilling in me the love for hearty, wholesome meals. Perfect for cooler nights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish brings a sense of nostalgia while celebrating easy cooking. So, grab those ingredients, and let’s dive into making this scrumptious orzo dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Irresistible Flavor: Savory chicken sausage and bright broccoli create a delightful combo.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make the dish pop on your dinner table.
- Flexible Serving: Great as a main dish or a hearty side at any gathering.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free orzo.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups orzo pasta: This tiny pasta shape has a delightful texture that complements the other ingredients. If you’d like a change, consider substituting with quinoa or rice for a different twist.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. Feel free to switch to avocado or coconut oil if preferred.
1 pound chicken sausage, sliced: Choose your favorite flavor (Italian, spicy, or even apple) for added zest. If you need a leaner option, turkey sausage works beautifully too.
2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a lovely crunch and bright color. If fresh isn’t available, frozen broccoli can be a great alternative, just thaw it beforehand.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a savory punch. For a milder flavor, consider using roasted garlic instead.
4 cups chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. Vegetable broth can easily replace chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend enhances the dish with a burst of herby flavor. You can customize this blend with your favorites, like thyme or oregano.
Salt and pepper to taste: These essentials elevate the flavors in your dish. Always taste as you go to get it just right!
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: This cheesy addition adds creaminess and depth. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free alternative.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Parsley isn’t just a garnish—its freshness elevates the whole dish. Swap it for basil if you want something unique!
How to Make Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Heat the Oil: Start by heating that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough for cooking but not smoking. Once shimmering, it’s time to add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are browned and sizzling—this step builds layers of flavor!
Add Garlic and Broccoli: Next, toss in the minced garlic and the broccoli florets. Stir them around for about 2 minutes, letting the garlic turn fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic softens and the broccoli brightens in color—it’s a delicious sight to behold!
Stir in the Orzo: Now, sprinkle in that 2 cups of orzo pasta and give the mixture a good stir. It might seem a bit dry, but don’t worry—that’s just the orzo soaking up all those delicious flavors. This should only take about a minute to combine everything well.
Pour in the Broth: Grab your 4 cups of chicken broth and pour it in, alongside the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to ensure the orzo is submerged and evenly mixed. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking—you’ll want the orzo to be tender!
Finishing Touches: Once the orzo has absorbed most of the broth, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the mix. A taste here will be crucial—add more salt and pepper if necessary. It should have a rich, creamy consistency. For a pop of freshness, sprinkle in the chopped parsley.
Serve and Enjoy!: Now, grab your favorite serving dishes. This **Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo** doesn’t just taste good; it looks great too! Feel free to sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top and serve it warm—this is comfort food at its finest!
Storing & Reheating
To store your delicious orzo, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture and prevent it from drying out. The flavors only deepen after a night of rest!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli—keep it vibrant and slightly crisp for the best texture!
- To enhance flavors, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest before serving!
- Measure out your ingredients to speed up the cooking process—prep makes everything easier!
- If you’re short on time, pre-cooked sausage can cut down on cooking time significantly.
- If the orzo ends up too thick, a bit of extra broth can remedy the texture.
The beauty of this Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo lies not only in its simplicity but also in the joy of cooking and sharing it with loved ones. So don your apron and get those pots clanging! You’re destined to create a wonderfully satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing it up. It can last for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, a little heat and broth will refresh the flavors and texture perfectly!
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage flavors or even swap it for turkey, pork, or plant-based sausage. Each will bring its unique charm to this already flavorful dish!
Is orzo pasta healthy?
Orzo is a good source of carbohydrates and can fit well into a healthy diet. You can make it healthier by adding more veggies and using whole-wheat or gluten-free orzo varieties, depending on your dietary needs!
What can I serve with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
This dish is hearty and can stand alone! However, a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread can complement it beautifully. Serve with a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top, and you have a complete meal!
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📖 Recipe Card
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delightful comfort meal, bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, combining savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and fluffy orzo all in one pot, making it a satisfying option for dinner or meal prepping.
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.
- Stir in minced garlic and broccoli florets for 2 minutes.
- Add orzo pasta and stir to combine for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- When orzo is tender, remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese and parsley.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra parmesan.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the broccoli to maintain its color and crunch.
For added flavor, include a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
For quicker prep, consider using pre-cooked sausage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
