Description
This Savory Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a quick, comforting weeknight meal combining tender orzo pasta, flavorful chicken sausage, and nutritious broccoli. Enhanced with garlic and Parmesan cheese, it offers a perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and savory flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasonings & Fats
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of orzo pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced 12 ounces of chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves with the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Incorporate Broccoli and Orzo: Add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Then, toss in the cooked orzo pasta. Stir everything well and allow it to cook together for 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld and the broccoli softens slightly.
- Season the Dish: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the skillet contents to your taste. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients with the seasoning.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the chicken sausage broccoli orzo immediately and generously sprinkle each serving with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory finish.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli florets based on availability; if frozen, no need to thaw before cooking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan Parmesan alternative.
- Ensure to not overcook the orzo to maintain a creamy texture that pairs well with the sausage and broccoli.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and reheats well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
