Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is the dinner recipe I turn to when life gets hectic and takeout starts looking a little too tempting. There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in one pan, tastes like you spent hours on it, but actually takes less time than waiting for delivery. The orzo soaks up all that savory broth while the chicken sausage adds just the right amount of flavor without any heavy sauces weighing things down.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
I always start with quality chicken sausage because it brings so much built-in flavor to this dish. My go-to is a garlic or Italian variety from the grocery store’s fresh meat section. The beauty of this recipe is how simple the ingredient list is, yet everything works together to create something really satisfying. This recipe serves 4 people generously.
- 12 oz chicken sausage (sliced into rounds) – I recommend using fully cooked sausage for convenience
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth – In my experience, low-sodium works best so you control the salt
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (optional) – My preference is freshly grated for better flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
In my experience, the key to perfect orzo is not rushing the simmering process and stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Use a large 12-inch skillet for best results.
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the edges develop a caramelized brown color with some darker spots. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This builds the flavor base for your entire dish.
Step 3: Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Step 4: Let the orzo simmer for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When you have exactly 3 minutes of cooking time remaining (at the 7-minute mark), stir in the broccoli florets and cover the pan. The steam will soften the broccoli while the orzo finishes absorbing the broth.
Step 5: Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix everything together until well combined and slightly creamy. If the mixture looks too dry, add a splash of extra broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Perfect Pairings for This One-Pan Meal
This dish pairs beautifully with sides that add freshness and texture contrast to the hearty orzo. If you’re looking for more sausage-based dinner ideas, try our Creamy Italian Sausage Rigatoni for another quick weeknight option.
Simple Garden Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the Parmesan and adds refreshing crunch to your plate.
Garlic Bread: Crusty bread with butter and garlic is perfect for soaking up any extra broth left in your bowl and makes the meal feel more complete. Our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage offers another hearty sausage option your family will love.
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots or bell peppers roasted with olive oil bring natural sweetness that complements the savory sausage beautifully.
Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples or grapes on the side add a light, sweet element that balances the savory flavors and keeps the meal feeling fresh.
Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon provide additional fiber and keep the meal light without overwhelming the main dish. For a lighter pasta option, check out our Creamy One-Pot Broccoli Cheddar Orzo.
Keeping It Fresh and Delicious
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
I recommend reheating this dish on the stovetop over medium heat with a tablespoon or two of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture. You can also microwave individual portions, but add a bit of liquid first and stir halfway through heating.
This recipe works wonderfully for meal prep. Portion it into containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. You can also freeze it in individual servings for up to 2 months, though the texture of the broccoli may soften slightly after thawing. For more one-pan dinner inspiration, try our Marsala Chicken Orzo or Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage work well. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before you start.
What if I don’t have orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells make good substitutes. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.
How do I prevent the orzo from getting mushy?
Watch the liquid level carefully and stir occasionally. Remove from heat as soon as the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the edges develop a caramelized brown color with some darker spots. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add the orzo to the skillet and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Let the orzo simmer for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When you have exactly 3 minutes of cooking time remaining (at the 7-minute mark), stir in the broccoli florets and cover the pan. The steam will soften the broccoli while the orzo finishes absorbing the broth.
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix everything together until well combined and slightly creamy. If the mixture looks too dry, add a splash of extra broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Notes
