Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your weekly rotation. This easy one-pan meal brings together savory chicken sausage, tender-crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked orzo that absorbs all the rich, garlicky goodness from the pan. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed family dinners, or meal prep when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup make this dish a true everyday winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal means less cleanup and more flavor.
• Balanced and filling with protein, veggies, and hearty orzo.
• Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
• Great for meal prep and next-day lunches.
• Easy to customize with different veggies, cheeses, or spices.

Ingredients

• Chicken sausage (1 lb / 450 g): Adds savory flavor and lean protein; sliced for quick browning.
• Orzo pasta (1½ cups): A small pasta that cooks quickly and turns creamy when combined with sauce.
• Broccoli florets (3 cups): Brings color, texture, fiber, and nutrients.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp, divided): Used to brown the sausage and build flavor in the pan.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds aroma and depth.
• Chicken broth or reserved pasta water (½ cup): Helps deglaze the pan and loosen the sauce.
• Butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and silkiness.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Melts into the orzo for a savory, creamy finish.
• Lemon zest (1 tsp): Brightens the entire dish.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp): Balances the richness with acidity.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): Adds gentle heat if desired.

How to Make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo

Cook the Orzo and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 8–9 minutes. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water if not using broth, then drain and set aside.

Brown the Chicken Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until well browned. Browning is key here—it builds deep, savory flavor. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth or reserved pasta water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet. Stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Return the sausage to the pan and toss everything together until well combined and creamy.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.

Tips for Success

• Cook the orzo just to al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
• Always brown the sausage well for maximum flavor.
• Add a splash of broth if the pasta looks dry while mixing.
• Zest the lemon before juicing for easier prep.
• Use a wide skillet to prevent overcrowding.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Wide, deep skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fine grater for Parmesan and lemon zest

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
• Extra veggie boost: Add spinach, zucchini, peas, or bell peppers.
• Cheese swap: Try feta, goat cheese, or pecorino Romano.
• Spicy version: Use spicy chicken sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken sausage broccoli orzo is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or a light arugula and lemon salad. For drinks, sparkling water with lemon or a chilled Pinot Grigio complements the dish nicely.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?
Yes, it stores very well and tastes even better the next day.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Add it directly and cook an extra 2–3 minutes.

Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is not, but gluten-free versions are available.

What can I use instead of chicken sausage?
Turkey sausage, vegetarian sausage, tofu, or chickpeas all work well.

How should orzo be cooked?
Orzo should be al dente—tender but slightly firm in the center.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is the kind of reliable, comforting recipe every home cook needs. It’s quick, flavorful, and flexible enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping lunches for the week, or just craving a satisfying one-pan dinner, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy a meal that proves simple cooking can still be incredibly delicious.

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