Name: Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups orzo pasta; 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

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I can’t wait to share this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe with you because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s cozy, packed with flavor, and makes dinner come together in under 30 minutes — which, let’s be honest, is a game changer on busy weeknights. The combination of hearty chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo soaked in savory broth just makes it irresistibly satisfying.

What I really love about this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe is how versatile and forgiving it is. You can easily swap ingredients or tweak the seasoning to fit your mood, and it still turns out fantastic every time. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without any fuss. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this one in your weeknight rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together perfectly to create a balanced and flavorful meal. Picking fresh broccoli and quality chicken sausage really shines through, and a good chicken broth ties everything together beautifully.

Orzo pasta: This tiny rice-shaped pasta cooks super fast and soaks up flavors wonderfully.
Chicken sausage: Choose your favorite flavor—mild, spicy, or herbed—for a personal touch.
Broccoli florets: Fresh is best to keep that vibrant color and crunchy texture.
Garlic: Adds that irresistible aroma and depth to the dish.
Chicken broth: Use low sodium if you want more control over saltiness.
Olive oil: For sautéing and that light, fruity base flavor.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warm, familiar flavors.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for adjusting the taste to your liking.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness that finishes the meal perfectly.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with its fresh, herbaceous notes.

Variations

I’m all about making recipes my own, and this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe is no exception. Feel free to mix it up depending on what’s in your fridge or pantry!

Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage. I tried this once with spicy Italian mushroom sausage, and it still delivered great flavor.
Extra veggies: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
Cheese swap: Try crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella if Parmesan isn’t your favorite.
Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. My husband loves it with an extra kick.

How to Make Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the chicken sausage and garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic during the last minute—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn but releases that beautiful aroma. This step sets the flavor base, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add broccoli and orzo

Stir in the broccoli florets and orzo pasta, mixing everything well. You want the broccoli to start softening a bit before adding any liquid. This way, it won’t end up mushy later on.

Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and season

Pour 4 cups of chicken broth over the mixture, then sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent sticking; add a splash more broth if needed.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and parsley

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh pop. Give it a final taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe

Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love sprinkling extra Parmesan on top with a handful of chopped parsley for freshness. Sometimes, I add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up even more. A few red pepper flakes make a nice touch if you’re craving some heat.

Side Dishes

This dish is pretty hearty on its own but pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread always makes it feel like a complete meal. Roasted veggies or a simple cucumber salad also bring a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls with finely chopped herbs on top and a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze. It adds a bit of elegance without extra effort!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool the pasta before sealing it to prevent sogginess. I’ve found that the flavors actually develop and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this dish because the broccoli can get mushy after thawing. But if you want to, freeze before adding the Parmesan and parsley, then add those fresh after reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too—cover the dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Italian sausage, spicy chorizo, or even turkey sausage would work well. Just keep in mind that different sausages may vary in saltiness and spice level, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.
Is orzo pasta gluten-free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. If you need a gluten-free option, look for orzo made from rice or other gluten-free grains in specialty stores or use small gluten-free pasta shapes as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, with some swaps. Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. Sauté with olive oil and add your favorite veggies for a delicious vegan take.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking while cooking?

Stir frequently while simmering and make sure to add enough broth so the orzo can cook evenly without sticking. If it starts to stick, add a bit more liquid and lower the heat.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grated Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can bring a similar savory and cheesy flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe has become one of my go-to dinners because it’s so quick, flavorful, and just downright comforting. I love how easy it is to throw together after a busy day and how it always impresses without much fuss. If you want a dish that’s both tasty and nourishing, give this a try — I think you’ll be making it again and again, just like me!