Description
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a quick, flavorful one-pan meal made with savory chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo. It’s protein-packed, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook orzo until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Deglaze with chicken broth or pasta water.
- Add cooked orzo and broccoli to the skillet. Stir in butter, Parmesan, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Return sausage to the pan and toss to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
- Do not overcook the orzo to avoid a mushy texture.
- Swap broccoli for spinach, zucchini, or peas if desired.
- Use vegetable broth and vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American