Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Pasta is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining tender orzo pasta with savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli florets, and a blend of Italian seasonings. Cooked in chicken broth for a rich texture, it’s finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an easy, comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups orzo pasta
Proteins
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Broccoli and Seasoning: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to slightly soften the broccoli.
- Cook Orzo in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the orzo pasta, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine Sausage and Finish Cooking: Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet and stir. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use chicken broth to add depth of flavor; vegetable broth can be substituted for a lighter option.
- For a spicier kick, consider using spicy chicken sausage or adding red pepper flakes.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking the orzo to prevent sticking.
- To keep the broccoli bright and crisp, avoid overcooking; it should be tender yet firm.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.