Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that has transformed my busy weeknights. This quick, flavorful dish showcases savory chicken sausage, tender orzo, and vibrant broccoli, making it a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious dinner in no time. Let’s dive into how to create this easy chicken sausage orzo meal!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Orzo
This chicken sausage pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Here are some reasons to love it:
- It’s a one-pot chicken sausage orzo recipe, ensuring minimal cleanup.
- Nutritious ingredients make it a healthy choice, especially with the fresh broccoli.
- The creamy texture from Parmesan adds richness without the need for heavy sauces.
- Perfect for meal prep; you can make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices – try adding bell peppers or spinach!
- Suitable for gluten-free diets if you choose the right orzo.
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Orzo
Gather these items:
- 12 oz package chicken sausage
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 ⅓ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Slice the chicken sausage into half-moon shapes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the broccoli starts to soften.
- Step 3: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Step 4: Turn the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally.
- Step 5: Once the orzo is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Sausage Orzo
Keep these in mind:
- Perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- For added creaminess, consider mixing in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Sausage Orzo
Here are some serving suggestions:
- Top with extra grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish.
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Sausage Orzo
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This chicken sausage orzo skillet can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating to bring back moisture. It’s ideal for chicken sausage orzo for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sausage Orzo
What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Sausage Orzo?
The key to perfect orzo with chicken sausage is ensuring you don’t overcook the orzo. Stirring occasionally while it simmers helps prevent sticking and allows for even cooking.
Can I make Chicken Sausage Orzo ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chicken sausage and orzo recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prepping.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Sausage Orzo?
To avoid common pitfalls, be sure to use enough broth for the orzo to cook properly, and keep an eye on the texture. If it’s too dry, add a little more liquid during the cooking process.
Variations of Chicken Sausage Orzo You Can Try
Here are some delicious variations:
- For a creamy chicken sausage orzo, stir in a bit of cream or cream cheese after the orzo is cooked.
- Add spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a delightful twist!
For additional cooking tips, you can visit Healthline’s healthy cooking tips to enhance your culinary skills.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Chicken Sausage Orzo recipe!
Print
Chicken Sausage Orzo: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal packed with savory chicken sausage, tender orzo, and fresh broccoli.
Ingredients
- 12 oz package chicken sausage
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 ⅓ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Slice the chicken sausage into half-moon shapes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and fresh broccoli florets. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the broccoli starts to soften.
- Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
- Turn the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 457 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Chicken Sausage Orzo, one-pan meal, quick dinner
