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Happy Friday! After a long, busy week, the last thing I want to do is spend my evening washing a mountain of pots and pans. This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is my favorite kind of weeknight miracle, it’s a complete, delicious, and comforting one pan orzo dinner! The orzo pasta cooks right in the skillet with the sausage and broccoli, soaking up all the amazing flavors. It’s the ultimate easy weeknight meal with the easiest cleanup ever.
What makes this easy chicken sausage and broccoli orzo so perfect is how everything cooks together in one skillet. The orzo absorbs all the flavors as it simmers until liquid is absorbed, the chicken sausage adds lean protein and tons of flavor, and the broccoli stays perfectly tender-crisp. This 30-minute skillet meal has that amazing garlic parmesan flavor that makes it taste way more impressive than the effort required. Plus, it’s completely customizable with veggie and protein swaps, so you can make it work with whatever you have on hand.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
1. True One-Pan Meal – Everything cooks in a single skillet, including the orzo. No need to boil pasta separately or dirty multiple pots. You literally cook orzo in broth right in the same pan with the sausage and vegetables, making cleanup incredibly easy.
2. Ready in 30 Minutes – From start to finish, this chicken sausage and broccoli orzo recipe takes just half an hour. It’s perfect for sports night dinners, end of summer dinner ideas, or any busy weeknight when you need something quick but satisfying.
3. Nutritionist Approved and Family-Friendly – This is one of those clean eating dinner recipes that actually tastes indulgent. The lean protein from chicken sausage keeps it lighter than traditional sausage, and the broccoli adds vegetables that even picky eaters will enjoy when it’s mixed with creamy, cheesy orzo.
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
This chicken sausage and broccoli orzo pasta uses simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal. You’re making the best orzo dinner recipe with just a handful of pantry staples.
What You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz chicken sausage (Italian or your favorite flavor), sliced into rounds
- 2 cups broccoli florets (or broccolini, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Why These Ingredients Matter
Chicken Sausage – Using chicken sausage instead of pork sausage makes this lighter and healthier while still packing tons of flavor. Chicken sausage is already seasoned, so it adds incredible depth without requiring a million spices. Look for varieties with Italian seasoning, garlic, or even apple flavors for different taste profiles.
Orzo Pasta – Orzo is the perfect pasta for this dish because it cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors from the broth and sausage. When you toast orzo with garlic first, it adds a nutty depth that makes the final dish taste more complex and delicious.
Cook Orzo in Broth – Instead of boiling the orzo in plain water, cooking it directly in chicken broth infuses every grain with flavor. The orzo absorbs the broth as it cooks, creating a creamy, risotto-like texture without any cream. This technique is what makes this dish so flavorful.
Instructions for Making Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the dry orzo and toast orzo with garlic for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This step is crucial for adding depth of flavor.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
Step 4: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, nestling them into the orzo. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Cook uncovered for 2-3 more minutes to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate.
Step 6: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The melt-in cheese creates a creamy sauce that coats everything beautifully.
Step 7: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add lemon juice if you want extra brightness.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately.
Hint: This orzo chicken sausage skillet pairs perfectly with cheesy garlic chicken wraps on the side, or serve it alongside chicken avocado ranch burritos for a complete meal spread.
Top Tip
Toast the Orzo First – Don’t skip the step where you toast the dry orzo with garlic. This creates a nutty, deeper flavor that makes a huge difference in the final dish. It only takes 2-3 minutes but adds so much.
Keep the Lid On – When simmering the orzo, keep the skillet covered so the steam helps cook the broccoli evenly. If you leave it uncovered, the liquid will evaporate too quickly and the orzo won’t cook through properly.
Stir Occasionally – While the orzo cooks, stir it every few minutes to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. The orzo releases starch as it cooks, which creates that creamy texture, but it can also cause sticking if you don’t stir.
Add Cheese Off Heat – Always add the Parmesan after removing the skillet from the heat. If you add it while it’s still on the burner, the cheese can get grainy and clumpy instead of melting smoothly into a creamy sauce.
My Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Journey
I discovered this recipe on one of those nights when I had absolutely nothing planned for dinner and needed something fast. I had chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo in the pantry, and I just threw everything together in one pan hoping it would work. When I served it, everyone devoured it and asked when I was making it again. Grandma happened to call right after dinner and I told her about my experimental success. She said, “Jazzy, that’s how the best recipes are born. You work with what you have and trust your instincts.”
She was absolutely right. Now this has become one of my most-made recipes because it’s so versatile and forgiving. I’ve made it with different sausage flavors, swapped broccoli for asparagus, added tomatoes, and it always turns out great. It’s become my go-to for dinner for the week meal prep because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Every time I make it, I remember that first experimental batch and how sometimes the best recipes come from just using what you have and keeping it simple.
Substitutions for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Vegetarian Version – Replace the chicken sausage with vegetarian sausage or skip it entirely and add white beans or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Check out this saucy ramen noodles vegan recipe for another plant-based dinner idea.
Chicken Sausage with Broccoli Tomatoes and Pasta – Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes along with the broccoli. The tomatoes add acidity and brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.
5 Ingredient Chicken Sausage and Orzo Skillet – Simplify this to just chicken sausage, orzo, broth, garlic, and Parmesan. Skip the broccoli and other add-ins for an ultra-simple version that’s perfect when you’re short on time or ingredients.
Chicken Sausage Asparagus Orzo – Replace the broccoli with asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces. Asparagus has a more delicate flavor and adds a spring-like freshness to the dish. Add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking so it stays tender-crisp.
Variations on Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Lemon Orzo with Broccoli and Chicken Sausage – Add the zest and juice of one lemon at the end for a bright, fresh version. The lemon makes it taste lighter and perfect for spring or summer dinners. This lemon version is amazing served cold as a pasta salad.
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Stir Fry – Turn this into a chicken sausage and broccoli stir fry by using rice instead of orzo and adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. It’s a completely different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
Creamy Version – Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese along with the Parmesan for an extra creamy, indulgent version. This makes it taste more like a creamy orzo sausage pasta that’s perfect for special occasions.
Spicy Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Skillet – Use spicy Italian chicken sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a kick. You can also add a splash of hot sauce at the end for those who like heat.
Fall-Inspired – Make this perfect for September meal ideas or fall night dinner ideas by swapping broccoli for diced butternut squash and adding sage. The sweet squash and earthy sage create amazing autumn flavors, similar to cowboy butter chicken linguine but with orzo.
Equipment for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Large Skillet with Lid – A 12-inch skillet with a tight-fitting lid is essential for this one-pan dinner. The lid traps steam that cooks the broccoli and helps the orzo absorb the liquid evenly. Cast iron or stainless steel works best.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – You’ll be stirring frequently as the orzo cooks, so a good wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula is important. Wood is gentle on your skillet and won’t scratch non-stick surfaces.
Sharp Knife – For slicing the chicken sausage and chopping broccoli into even pieces. Uniform sizes ensure everything cooks at the same rate.
Measuring Cups – Accurate measurements are important for the liquid-to-orzo ratio. Too much liquid makes it soupy, too little and the orzo won’t cook through properly.
Storage Tips for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Refrigerator Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This is perfect for easy healthy dinner with leftovers. The orzo absorbs more liquid as it sits, so you may want to add a splash of broth when reheating.
Reheating Tips – Reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top for 2-3 minutes, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth or water. The stovetop method gives you better texture and helps redistribute the moisture.
Freezer Storage – This freezes reasonably well for up to 2 months, though the texture of the orzo changes slightly. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently with added liquid.
Meal Prep for the Week – This is perfect for dinner for the week. Make a big batch on Sunday and portion it into containers. It stays fresh and the flavors actually improve as everything marinates together.
Grandma’s Secret for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Grandma taught me the secret to making the creamiest chicken sausage and broccoli orzo without using any cream. “Jazzy,” she said when I told her about this recipe, “the trick is to stir the orzo really well right at the end. All that starch that’s released creates a natural creaminess, just like risotto. But you have to stir vigorously to release those starches from the orzo.” I tried her method and the difference was incredible. The orzo became silky and creamy instead of just wet.
Her other secret is to always save some of the pasta cooking liquid before adding the cheese. If the orzo looks too dry, you can add a few tablespoons of the starchy liquid to loosen it up and make it creamier. She says that starchy water is liquid gold because it helps everything come together into a cohesive, creamy dish without adding heavy cream or butter. These simple tricks turn a good one-pan meal into something that tastes restaurant-quality.
FAQ about Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
What tastes good with chicken sausage?
Chicken sausage pairs beautifully with vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini. It also works well with grains like orzo, rice, quinoa, or pasta. For sauces, try garlic parmesan, lemon butter, marinara, or honey mustard. Chicken sausage is versatile and complements both Italian and Asian flavors depending on the seasoning in the sausage.
What sauce goes with chicken and broccoli pasta?
Garlic parmesan sauce is the classic choice for chicken and broccoli pasta. Other great options include alfredo, lemon butter sauce, pesto, or a light olive oil and garlic sauce. For Asian-inspired versions, try teriyaki, soy ginger, or sesame sauce. The key is balancing the mild flavors of chicken and broccoli with something rich and flavorful.
What kind of sauce goes well with orzo?
Orzo works beautifully with creamy sauces like garlic parmesan, alfredo, or lemon cream. It also pairs well with lighter options like olive oil and garlic, pesto, or tomato-based marinara. For one-pan meals, cooking orzo directly in seasoned broth creates its own sauce as the liquid reduces and the starch from the orzo creates natural creaminess.
Is chicken sausage really healthier?
Yes, chicken sausage is generally healthier than traditional pork sausage. It typically has less saturated fat, fewer calories, and less cholesterol while still providing good protein. However, it can still be high in sodium, so check labels if you’re watching salt intake. Chicken sausage is a great way to enjoy sausage flavor while keeping meals lighter and more nutritionist approved.
Conclusion
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is the perfect Friday night dinner that gives you back your evening. And just like that, a delicious, hearty dinner is on the table, and you have only one pan to clean. Here’s to a delicious recipe that gives you back your Friday night!
If you love easy chicken and vegetable dinners, check out this Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry from Allrecipes for another delicious way to enjoy this classic combination.
Give this chicken sausage and broccoli orzo recipe a try and let me know what you think. Grandma and I love hearing about your one-pan dinner wins!
Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet with Lid Grandma always said a heavy-bottomed pan (at least 12 inches) is a cook's best friend.
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage Sliced into rounds. I love using a pre-cooked Italian-flavored one!
- 3 cloves garlic Minced. My notebook says "never trust a recipe that doesn't use garlic!"
- 1.5 cups orzo pasta Dry, uncooked.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets Cut into small, bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus more for serving, always.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes This is optional, but we love the little bit of warmth it adds.
Instructions
- Heat the [olive oil] in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced [chicken sausage] and let it cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping once, until it's nicely browned on both sides. Grandma's note in her book says, "Don't rush this part, Jazzy. Those brown bits are pure flavor!" Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside on a plate.
- In that same skillet (don't wipe it out!), add the [minced garlic] and stir for about 30 seconds until you can smell it. Oh, that's the best smell! Now, add the dry [orzo pasta]. Stir it constantly for 2-3 minutes to toast it in the leftover drippings. It'll turn a little nutty and golden. This is the secret!
- Pour in the [chicken broth], scraping up any of those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Add the [broccoli florets], [salt], [black pepper], and [red pepper flakes].
- Pop the lid on the skillet and let everything simmer for 10-12 minutes. Give it a stir once or twice (this is important!) so the orzo doesn't stick. You'll know it's ready when the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of that delicious broth.
- Turn off the heat completely. Add the cooked [chicken sausage] (and any juices from the plate) back into the pan along with that glorious [grated Parmesan cheese].
- Now, do what Grandma always told me: "Stir it like you mean it!" Stir everything together vigorously for a good 30-60 seconds. This helps the starch from the orzo release and makes the most beautiful, creamy sauce, all without a single drop of heavy cream. It's her magic trick.
- Taste it and add any more salt or pepper if you think it needs it. Serve it up hot, right from the skillet, with a little extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
- From Grandma’s Notebook: “The best recipes are just a starting point. Don’t have broccoli? Use asparagus (add it in the last 5 minutes) or a big handful of spinach (stir it in right at the end). No chicken sausage? Any pre-cooked sausage will do. Trust your instincts, Jazzy.”
- Storage: Leftovers are fantastic! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This dish reheats beautifully. I like to add it back to a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water. This brings back that wonderful creamy texture perfectly.
