Name: Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups orzo pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a quick, tasty meal that combines protein and vegetables in one dish. It is simple to prepare and great for busy weeknights. The creamy texture of the orzo pasta, combined with the savory chicken sausage and fresh broccoli, makes this dish comforting and satisfying.

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How to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Ingredients:

2 cups orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Now, add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes creamy.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

You can serve this dish warm in bowls. Feel free to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

To store leftovers, place the orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
You can swap broccoli for other vegetables like spinach or peas if desired.
If you want it spicier, try using spicy chicken sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra flavors and nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I use another kind of pasta?
Yes, you can use other small pasta types, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or even water, but chicken broth adds a lot of flavors.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free orzo pasta and ensure the chicken sausage is also gluten-free.