Name: Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Comforting Weeknight Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American / Italian Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2–3 links chicken sausage, sliced; 1 to 1½ cups broccoli florets; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth (or stock); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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When I think of a quick and hearty dinner, Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo always comes to mind. It’s a meal that feels cozy and satisfying while still being simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. The savory sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy Parmesan-coated orzo come together in one pot, making it a dish that I enjoy cooking again and again.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Comforting Weeknight Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo because it’s a one-pot meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The sausage browns beautifully and brings a rich, savory depth, while the garlic and Italian seasoning add aromatic warmth. The orzo absorbs all the broth and seasoning, creating a creamy texture without needing heavy sauces. I also appreciate how flexible this recipe is—I can swap out the sausage, add more vegetables, or even make it creamier with a splash of cream. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, so I can enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Orzo pasta
Olive oil
Chicken sausage, sliced
Broccoli florets
Garlic, minced
Chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot, then brown the sliced chicken sausage for about 5–7 minutes.
Next, I add the minced garlic and cook it until fragrant, about a minute.
I stir in the broccoli florets and let them soften for 2–3 minutes.
Then I add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I bring everything to a boil.
Once boiling, I reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender.
I stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts into the orzo, making it creamy and rich.
Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in around 30 minutes. Each serving comes in at about 450 calories, with a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Variations

I sometimes use spicy chicken sausage for extra heat.
For a vegetarian option, I replace the sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage.
To make it even cheesier, I mix in mozzarella or feta.
A splash of cream makes the dish extra creamy and indulgent.
I also like adding seasonal veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo

can thicken as it sits, so when I reheat it, I like

to add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back its creamy texture. I usually reheat it on the stovetop, but the microwave works well too.

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Comforting Weeknight Dish

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, I often swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage or a plant-based version, depending on what I have on

hand.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! I just use gluten-free orzo to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

How can I make the orzo creamier?

I stir in a splash of heavy cream right before serving for a velvety, indulgent texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. I like adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and variety.

How long does this dish keep?

I keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Adding a little broth when reheating keeps it from drying out.

Conclusion

Cooking Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo always feels like a small victory on a busy night. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple, making it one of my go-to recipes. I love how the sausage and garlic fill the kitchen with a comforting aroma, and the final dish never disappoints. Whether I’m cooking for family or just for myself, this orzo dish always delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction.