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Chicken sausage and broccoli orzo makes weeknight cooking feel a little special but never overwhelming. You get melty Parmesan and broccoli in every bite with comforting orzo and savory sausage for something both cozy and bright. My family always requests this dish when the weather turns cool because it fills the kitchen with warmth and brings everyone together at the table.
I first made this on a busy weeknight after sports practice. The smell alone had everyone peeking into the kitchen. Since then it is our go-to whenever we want something hearty but not fussy.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: Provides a creamy risotto-like texture without constant stirring. Buy orzo from a brand with a uniform golden color for best results.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and acts as the flavor base. Choose extra virgin for richer taste.
- Chicken sausage: Adds lean protein and bold flavor. Opt for fresh links with visible herbs and spices.
- Broccoli florets: Bring a fresh bite and loads of vitamin C. Go for vibrant green florets with tight heads.
- Garlic: Boosts fragrance and depth. Use fresh cloves and mince just before cooking for maximum aroma.
- Chicken broth: Provides body and savory backbone. Use low sodium to control saltiness.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses herbaceous notes. Look for blends with oregano basil and thyme.
- Salt and pepper: Heightens overall seasoning. Freshly cracked pepper and kosher salt help balance flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds creaminess and nutty finish. Buy real Parmigiano Reggiano and grate by hand if possible.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish and color. Pick flat leaf parsley that looks crisp and bright.
How to Make It
- Brown the Sausage:
- Slice the chicken sausage into bite sized pieces and add to a large heavy pot warmed with olive oil over medium heat. Let the sausage brown on both sides for about seven minutes to amp up the savory flavor and get those delicious caramelized bits forming on the bottom.
- Bloom the Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the browned sausage. Cook for one minute, stirring often. The idea is for the garlic to release its aroma but not burn, so keep a careful eye and reduce the heat if needed.
- Sauté Broccoli:
- Toss in your broccoli florets. Cook for two to three minutes, stirring gently. This primes them to stay green and snappy later without turning mushy.
- Add Orzo and Broth:
- Pour in the dry orzo pasta, the chicken broth, and sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything up to a gentle boil over medium high heat. Then lower to a simmer.
- Simmer and Stir:
- Cover with a lid and let the orzo cook for between ten and twelve minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking and make sure the orzo cooks evenly. The pasta should absorb most of the broth by the end and the mixture will thicken.
- Finish with Parmesan:
- Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as it melts into the pasta making the whole pot creamy and fragrant.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Spoon the orzo into bowls while hot and scatter chopped fresh parsley over each serving. Enjoy the cozy scent and colors.
Parmesan cheese remains my favorite addition because when it melts in you get a creamy tangle throughout the orzo. Sausage night was always my favorite as a kid and now my little ones run into the kitchen yelling for a scoop before it even hits the table.
Flavor Boosters
Let the orzo cool completely before storing and keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to three days. Leftovers can thicken so add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen up the sauce without losing creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This orzo tastes great simply on its own. Try topping with extra herbs or a drizzle of quality olive oil. Just add a leafy salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It is also a fantastic potluck dish because you can scale up the recipe and keep it warm in a slow cooker.
Creative Twists
You can swap in turkey or plantbased sausage for the chicken sausage if needed. Cauliflower works well in place of broccoli or you can try baby spinach stirred in at the very end. For a dairyfree version use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. It mimics that nutty flavor while keeping it vegan.
When you want something cozy and satisfying, this orzo dish delivers every time. It has become a beloved staple in our family and I hope it will be in yours too.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Dish
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage with turkey, pork, or plant-based sausage to match your preference.
- → How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers and ensure enough broth is added to keep it moist and tender.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work well and can add color and extra nutrients to the dish.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- → Can I make it dairy free?
For a dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a non-dairy alternative.