The aroma of sizzling chicken mingling with the earthy scent of broccoli and the comforting embrace of orzo is something truly magical. Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with laughter, as you prepare this Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet that not only delights the taste buds but also warms the soul. delicious smoked sausage recipe This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something hearty yet simple.
Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and all you want is comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter this Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet, ready to be your culinary superhero, swooping in to save dinner time with ease and flavor. crispy chicken tenders for dinner. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This delightful Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet combines incredible flavors while being super easy to prepare. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any dinner table. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples. The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a winner for busy weeknights. [/info_box]
When I first made this dish for my friends during a casual get-together, they were blown away by its simplicity and flavor. It became an instant favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Chicken Sausage: Opt for your favorite variety—spicy or mild—to add a kick or keep it mellow.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works; just ensure they are bright green to maintain that crunch.
Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious flavors beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic depth; minced or crushed works wonders here.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still delivering rich flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own for freshness—nothing beats that creamy texture on top! high-protein mac and cheese.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté and adds a lovely richness to the skillet.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces and slice the chicken sausage into rounds to ensure even cooking.
Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet until shimmering. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Garlic and Broccoli: Stir in minced garlic, followed by broccoli florets. Cook until the broccoli turns bright green and tender, around 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Orzo Pasta: Pour in chicken broth along with uncooked orzo pasta. Bring to a boil then lower heat, simmering until orzo is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
Mix in Parmesan Cheese: Once cooked, remove from heat. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted through, creating a creamy texture.
Season and Serve!: Taste your creation; add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy!
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding! As you serve it up steaming hot, watch everyone dig in with delight—this dish truly knows how to make an entrance! savory chicken and avocado burritos.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of savory sausage, fresh broccoli, and hearty orzo makes for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize, meaning you can adapt it to your pantry staples! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken sausage first; then cook the orzo and add broccoli later. This method ensures that each ingredient retains its flavor and texture while allowing everything to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the broccoli for your favorite greens like spinach or kale. You could also experiment with different spices or even add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For perfectly cooked orzo, avoid adding it directly into boiling water; instead, let it simmer gently. Add salt to the cooking water for maximum flavor absorption. Always taste as you go for seasoning adjustments that suit your palate. [/info_box]
Sharing this dish with my family was such a joy; their compliments were overwhelming. It became an instant favorite, proving that simple meals can create lasting memories together.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage or tofu are great substitutes that maintain flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and reheats beautifully for quick lunches during the week.
What can I serve alongside this skillet dish?
A light salad or crusty bread makes excellent companions to balance the meal’s richness.
Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal that blends savory chicken sausage with tender broccoli and creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken sausage (sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and broccoli florets. Cook until broccoli is bright green and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and add uncooked orzo pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until orzo is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Substitute broccoli with spinach or kale for variety. Add a splash of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat on the stovetop.