Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

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Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. With tender orzo pasta that absorbs every ounce of savory flavor, juicy chicken sausage slices, and vibrant broccoli florets, this dish checks every box for ease and satisfaction.

What makes this orzo recipe shine is how it comes together in under 30 minutes without sacrificing taste or texture. It balances wholesome greens with a hearty protein while keeping the sauce light and luscious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping lunch for the week, this meal will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

This recipe is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still want a homemade, nourishing meal. The orzo cooks directly in the skillet, soaking up the broth and infusing the entire dish with bold, comforting flavor. Chicken sausage adds a smoky depth while broccoli brings color and crunch. It’s also wonderfully customizable—swap in kale or spinach, use spicy sausage, or toss in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra twist.

It reheats like a dream, making it perfect for leftovers, and the simplicity of ingredients means you might already have everything you need on hand.

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! While orzo is ideal for its quick cooking and risotto-like texture, you can swap it out for other small pastas like ditalini, pastina, or even couscous. Just be mindful of liquid ratios and cooking times, as these alternatives may require slight adjustments. If you opt for rice, consider a par-cooked version or pre-cook it before adding to the pan.

Ingredients for the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor while keeping the cooking process efficient and approachable.

• Chicken sausage: Adds savory, slightly smoky flavor and hearty protein to the dish.
• Orzo pasta: The star of the show, orzo soaks up the broth and delivers a creamy, risotto-like texture.
• Broccoli florets: Brings freshness and vibrant color, adding a nutrient-rich crunch.
• Garlic: A flavor base that infuses the orzo with aromatic depth.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it helps bring out the flavors of the sausage and garlic.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory profile of the orzo.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo, creating a creamy finish with salty richness.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional but recommended for a touch of heat.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How To Make the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the chicken sausage into rounds and add them to the pan. Cook until nicely browned on both sides. This step boosts the flavor foundation of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Once the sausage is browned, add minced garlic to the pan. Stir frequently for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the uncooked orzo directly to the skillet. Let it toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat it in the oil and garlic. This enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and cover the pan. Let the steam cook the broccoli for about 3–5 minutes, until crisp-tender. You can also blanch the broccoli ahead of time if you prefer.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Once the broccoli is tender, stir in the grated Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until everything is creamy and well combined.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

This dish serves about 4 people generously, making it a great option for family dinner or meal prepping. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

To store, let the orzo cool and transfer to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?

A Crisp Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula tossed in lemon vinaigrette makes a bright and refreshing side.

Garlic Bread

For those who love to scoop up every bite, garlic bread is the ideal pairing.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A pan of blistered cherry tomatoes adds juicy sweetness and vibrant contrast.

Lemon Herb Yogurt Sauce

Drizzle a tangy, creamy sauce over your orzo for a Mediterranean twist.

Grilled Zucchini

Lightly charred zucchini rounds out the veggie goodness with smoky flavor.

Chopped Antipasto Platter

Marinated olives, roasted peppers, and fresh mozzarella make a perfect starter.

Poached Egg

Top your orzo with a runny poached egg for an indulgent finish.

Simple Fruit Salad

Balance the savory with something sweet and light.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo, you’ll probably enjoy these other Luna Meals favorites:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni with rich cheesy comfort.
• Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir-Fry for another zesty orzo take.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for earthy, elegant bites.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup when you’re in a cozy mood.
• Easy Chicken with Zucchini Corn Garlic Sauce for creamy meets fresh.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a squeeze of lemon or a different green? Did you make it extra cheesy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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