Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
The aroma of sizzling chicken sausage mingling with the vibrant green of broccoli fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent. As the orzo cooks to al dente perfection, the pot becomes a colorful tableau of textures and flavors. This Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo transforms a routine weeknight into a comforting culinary moment, reminiscent of family dinners where laughter echoed against the clatter of forks on plates. I remember the Sundays spent with loved ones, gathering around the table, sharing stories while savoring every bite. This dish captures that comforting essence, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends.
Table of Contents
Whether it’s the crunch of the broccoli or the rich, flavorful sausages, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. This dish is not just about filling your belly but nourishing your spirit with every delightful flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal, it promises satisfaction wrapped in simplicity. So, are you ready to bring this easy and delicious meal into your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chicken sausage and garlic creates a savory masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it warm for dinner, or save leftovers for lunch the next day!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by choosing specific products.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups orzo pasta: This small pasta shape absorbs flavors wonderfully. You can substitute with quinoa or gluten-free pasta for different textures or dietary needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A staple for sautéing, it adds a nice richness. You can use any neutral oil if needed but avoid oils with strong flavors.
- 1 pound chicken sausage sliced: Choose your favorite flavor (Italian, spicy, etc.) for an extra layer of taste. Vegan sausage can also be used for a plant-based option.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli provides a nice crunch and color. Frozen can work in a pinch but may become softer.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic brings a beautiful aroma that enhances the dish’s flavor. You can use garlic powder in a pinch but fresh is best.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought broth infuses the orzo with delicious flavor. Vegetable broth is a great alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a lovely depth of flavor. Feel free to mix your own with basil, oregano, and thyme!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; adjust based on your preference.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds creaminess and umami. Nutritional yeast can replace this for a vegan option.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten the dish, making it feel special.
How to Make Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later, just in case the dish needs a little moisture later on.
Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage, letting it cook until it’s browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sausage will create a fragrant base for your dish.
Add the Broccoli and Garlic: Toss in the broccoli florets and minced garlic, stirring to combine with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, just until the broccoli brightens in color and the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; that can turn lovely garlic bitter!
Pour in the Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth and Italian seasoning to the skillet, stirring everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer and watch for bubbles, which means deliciousness is right around the corner.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to mix everything thoroughly. If the mixture seems a little dry, pour in some reserved pasta water, a couple of tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This is where your dish comes together in a creamy embrace!
Season and Serve: Remove from heat, then stir in the grated parmesan cheese, which will melt beautifully into the dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, and it’s ready to serve hot!
Storing & Reheating
For best results, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze this dish for up to three months; just ensure to use a freezer-safe container. When reheating, warming in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth works wonders to refresh the flavors and prevent it from drying out. Simply heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the orzo; you want it just al dente since it will continue cooking slightly when added to the hot skillet.
- For better flavor, let the chicken sausage brown well before adding other ingredients; this adds depth to your dish.
- If you’re short on time, you could use pre-cooked or leftover sausage.
- Want a kick? Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist!
- This dish is great for meal prep; consider doubling the recipe for easy lunches throughout the week.
Everyone loves a comforting meal, especially when it’s as simple as this Delicious Recipe! Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. It’s easy to whip up on a weeknight, and you’ll find joy in each delicious bite. The combination of flavors and textures is wonderful—creamy, cheesy, and ever so satisfying. Feel free to play around with ingredients or add your spin, making it truly your own. Your family will thank you, and you’ll have a new favorite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While orzo is delightful in this recipe, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions, as it may vary.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, for a gluten-free option, simply swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free pasta varieties, keeping all the delicious flavors intact!
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dish, then cool it completely before storing it in the fridge for up to three days. It’s perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the week!
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas along with the broccoli. Just remember to adjust cooking times so everything is cooked to your preferred tenderness!
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📖 Recipe Card
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and al dente orzo pasta. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the orzo pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the chicken sausage until browned.
- Add broccoli and garlic, stirring for a few minutes until broccoli brightens and garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and Italian seasoning, bringing to a simmer.
- Combine cooked orzo with the skillet mixture, adding pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Remove from heat, stir in parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For gluten-free option, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
