Chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo come together in a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Picture this: the sizzle of chicken sausage filling your kitchen with a savory aroma, while the vibrant green broccoli adds a pop of color and crunch. savory chicken linguine This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and satisfies your soul.
I remember the first time I made this Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo for my family. They were skeptical at first, but one bite and suddenly they were all fighting for seconds. It’s become a staple in our household, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends during casual gatherings. sweet and savory chicken tenders Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close to your heart!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze
- The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a satisfying dish everyone will enjoy
- Vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- It’s versatile enough to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!
My kids’ faces lighting up after tasting this dish is something I cherish; it’s like winning the dinner lottery every time.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Chicken Sausage: Choose your favorite flavor—spicy or sweet—for an added kick. spicy Thai red curry chicken.
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Orzo Pasta: Small rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this marry me chicken pasta recipe.
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Fresh Broccoli: Opt for vibrant green florets; they’ll add color and nutrition to your meal.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings aromatic goodness to every bite; you can never have too much!
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for richer flavor without overpowering saltiness.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds creaminess and depth; sprinkle generously before serving.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil enhances flavors and prevents sticking while cooking.
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Black Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings to elevate all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
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Lemon Zest (optional): A hint of lemon zest brightens the dish; add just before serving for freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets so they cook evenly.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. crispy chicken ranch wrap Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Toss in diced onion and minced garlic with the sausage. Sauté everything together until the onion turns translucent and fills your kitchen with delicious aromas.
Add Broccoli and Orzo: Stir in chopped broccoli and uncooked orzo pasta, coating everything well with those flavorful juices from the pot.
Pour in Broth: Carefully add chicken broth to cover all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer gently for about 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
Add Cheese & Serve: Once cooked, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon zest before serving hot!
With each step, you’ll find yourself getting more excited about serving this delightful dish!
Now you know how to create a comforting meal that’s as easy as pie (or should I say orzo?). Enjoy every spoonful of your Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- Chicken sausage adds a delightful twist to the traditional orzo; its savory flavor and juicy texture elevate every bite
- Pairing this dish with broccoli not only enhances the color but also packs a nutritious punch, making it a winner for any weeknight dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the chicken sausage until golden brown. Meanwhile, cook the orzo in boiling salted water and add broccoli in the last few minutes for perfect timing.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or kale. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to cook the orzo al dente so it maintains a pleasant bite
- Using fresh ingredients will really enhance the flavors, so don’t skimp!
- Finally, always taste before serving; seasonings can vary widely based on personal preference
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last scoop of orzo, proving that comfort food truly brings people together.

FAQ
Can I use regular sausage instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Regular sausage would impart a richer flavor to the dish.
Is orzo gluten-free?
No, traditional orzo is made from wheat; however, gluten-free options exist.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers and zucchini make delicious additions to this meal.
Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a delightful one-pot meal that combines savory chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo pasta. This comforting dish bursts with flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. With its vibrant colors and rich textures, every bite is sure to please the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken sausage
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced chicken sausage. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Combine broccoli and orzo: Add chopped broccoli and uncooked orzo to the pot, stirring to coat with juices.
- Pour in broth: Add chicken broth to cover all ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Finish with cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional lemon zest before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





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