Delicious Comfort in a Bowl
Ever experienced the magic of flavors when chicken sausage meets tender broccoli in a cozy pasta dish? It’s like a warm hug for your tummy! This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe is not only quick but also creamy and satisfying. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder has gone viral for all the right reasons. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Why Make This Recipe
Why will you fall head over heels for this dish? Here’s the scoop:
- Easy cleanup: One pan means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal (because who really wants to do dishes, right?).
- Affordable: With just a few simple ingredients, you won’t break the bank.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the delightful combo of chicken sausage and broccoli, making it a perfect family meal. Who’s in?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 links chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to elevate your dinner game:
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo with the sausage and broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo (Overview)
Making this dish is a breeze! Start by boiling up the orzo until it’s perfectly al dente. While it’s cooking, sauté that chicken sausage until it gets all crisp and golden – yum! Add in the garlic for a lovely aroma (trust me, don’t skip this step!). Toss in your broccoli and let everything mingle together in the pan. Finish it off by combining it with the orzo and seasoning it just right. Voilà, dinner is served!
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Serve this colorful dish in a big bowl, and watch it steal the show! The glossy orzo dances with those vibrant green broccoli florets, creating a feast for the eyes. Sprinkle it with Parmesan for a rich, velvety finish. The mingling aromas of garlic and sausage make your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant. Pair it with a crisp side salad or your favorite garlic bread for an extra treat!
How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Leftovers? Score! You can keep this dish in the fridge for up to 3 days, or toss it in the freezer for about a month. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or sauté on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to revive those flavors. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
- Don’t overcook the orzo! A little bite helps keep it from turning mushy.
- Feel free to swap out the chicken sausage with turkey or veggie sausage for a lighter twist.
- For extra flavor, toss in some red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of herbs!
- Need more greens? Add spinach or peas right along with the broccoli for more color.
Variation
Craving something different? Try using quinoa instead of orzo for a fluffy texture. If you’re aiming for a vegan option, swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based alternative and skip the cheese. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a fun kick. It’s all about mixing it up to suit your taste!
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free orzo?
Absolutely! Gluten-free orzo is available and works just as well!
2. How do I make this dish ahead of time?
Cook everything as directed and store it in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure it cools down before freezing, and store it in portion-sized containers for easy reheating later.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine cooked orzo with the sausage and broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.