Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo – Quick, Easy, and Packed with Flavor

If you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that feels comforting but doesn’t weigh you down, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is about to become your new go-to recipe.

This one-pan wonder comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. The orzo cooks directly in a flavorful broth, soaking up every bit of goodness from the sautéed chicken sausage and tender broccoli.

The result? Creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced — it tastes indulgent but is surprisingly light. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what’s in your fridge. Swap the broccoli for asparagus, add a splash of cream for richness, or toss in some grated Parmesan for extra depth.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just cooking for yourself, this chicken sausage and broccoli orzo recipe is a lifesaver. Minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor. That’s what makes it a keeper.

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What Makes This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Special?

• One-pan convenience – Less mess, fewer dishes, and faster cleanup.

• Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for hectic weeknights.

• Healthy yet comforting – Lean protein, fiber-rich broccoli, and hearty orzo.

• Flavor-packed without heavy sauces – Chicken sausage brings built-in seasoning, so no need for tons of extra spices.

• Easily customizable – Swap veggies, add cheese, or make it creamy.

This dish strikes the perfect balance between ease, taste, and nutrition. You’ll want to make it again and again.

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Ingredient Notes

• Chicken Sausage: Choose fully cooked smoked chicken sausage for convenience. Spicy or garlic varieties add extra depth. Substitute with turkey sausage, kielbasa, or even Italian sausage if you prefer.

• Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. You can swap with small pasta shapes like ditalini or pastina if needed.

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli works best, but frozen florets are a great time-saving alternative.

• Chicken Broth: Adds richness and depth to the orzo. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.

• Garlic & Onion: These aromatics build a flavorful base.

• Olive Oil: Enhances the richness while keeping it light.

• Parmesan Cheese (optional): For a creamy, cheesy finish.

• Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish and balances the richness.

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How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté 1 small chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo

Add 1 cup orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor. Pour in 2 ½ cups chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Broccoli

Stir in 2 cups broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Cover and let the steam soften the broccoli while the orzo absorbs the broth.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the sausage to the skillet, add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and ¼ cup Parmesan if desired. Stir well until everything is coated and creamy. Serve hot.

Tip: If the orzo looks too dry, add an extra splash of broth before serving.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Not recommended beyond 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it creamy: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.

• Add more veggies: Zucchini, asparagus, spinach, or mushrooms work beautifully.

• Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.

• Make it dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

• Swap the pasta: Use whole wheat orzo or small gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Add it straight to the pan — no need to thaw.

2. Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely. Prep the sausage and broccoli in advance, then cook the orzo fresh for best results.

3. What if I don’t have orzo?
You can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice — just adjust cook times.

4. Can I add cheese?
Definitely. Parmesan is classic, but feta or goat cheese adds a tangy twist.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Use mild sausage and cut broccoli small for picky eaters.

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