Introduction to Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
When you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between, the last thing you want to stress about is what’s for dinner. That’s where this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo comes in — a hearty, healthy, and flavorful dish made in just one pan in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect marriage of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and comforting pasta — and yes, your family will ask for seconds.
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of chicken sausage, tender-crisp broccoli, and orzo pasta that soaks up every delicious bit of garlic and parmesan. And if you’re wondering what orzo actually is, you’re not alone — it’s often mistaken for rice but is actually a small, rice-shaped pasta. For a full breakdown of this unique ingredient, check out this guide on orzo.
Not only is this dish versatile and nutrient-packed, but it also fits right into your meal prep routine. Plus, it’s a great way to get picky eaters to eat their greens. Want to learn how chicken sausage stacks up nutritionally compared to traditional options? Here’s a breakdown of chicken sausage nutrition to help you make the best choice for your family.
Table of Contents
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or nutrition.
- One skillet: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor
- Quick cook time: Done in 30 minutes
- Wholesome: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients
- Customizable: Switch out veggies or proteins based on what’s in your fridge
- Family-friendly: Savory, cheesy, and satisfying
For another easy chicken dinner, see our One-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Crafting the perfect Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo begins with a simple set of wholesome ingredients. This dish is both flexible and approachable, making it easy to adapt to what you have on hand. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier version, need gluten-free alternatives, or want to use up leftovers in your fridge, the ingredient list and suggested substitutions have you covered.
✅ Core Ingredients
These are the must-haves that make this dish flavorful, filling, and nutrient-rich:
- Olive Oil
A drizzle of olive oil gets things started by helping to brown the sausage and sauté the broccoli. It adds richness and depth to the base.
Substitution: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil for a high-heat alternative. - Chicken Sausage (8 oz)
The hero of the dish! Pre-cooked chicken sausage adds lean protein, smoky flavor, and is incredibly convenient. Look for varieties like Italian-style, smoked, or garlic and herb.
Substitution: Pork sausage, turkey sausage, vegetarian sausage, or even cubed grilled chicken or shrimp. - Broccoli (2–3 cups, chopped)
Adds fiber, vitamins, and beautiful color. Broccoli holds its texture well during sautéing and simmering, and pairs beautifully with garlic and cheese.
Substitution: Frozen broccoli (no need to thaw), cauliflower, peas, green beans, asparagus, or even spinach. - Garlic (1 tbsp, minced)
A must-have for aromatic flavor. Garlic infuses the oil and enhances the taste of every bite.
Substitution: Garlic powder in a pinch (use ½ teaspoon), or shallots for a sweeter flavor. - Orzo Pasta (1 cup, dry)
Orzo is a rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and absorbs flavor well — it’s the perfect match for one-pan dishes.
Substitution: Couscous, quinoa, white or brown rice, or gluten-free orzo. You can even use small pasta shapes like ditalini or pastina. - Chicken Broth (2 cups)
Adds savory depth and cooks the orzo to perfection. Using broth instead of water gives the pasta more flavor without extra ingredients.
Substitution: Vegetable broth, bone broth, or water with added bouillon or seasoning. - Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, shredded)
This adds a creamy, nutty, salty finish to the dish. Melting into the pasta, it elevates everything and brings the components together.
Substitution: Pecorino Romano, Asiago, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese alternative. - Salt & Pepper
The simplest seasonings are often the most important. A generous pinch of each enhances all the other flavors in the skillet.
Substitution: Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or a dash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami twist.
🔄 Optional Flavor Boosters
Want to take it up a notch? Try these tasty add-ins:
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Lemon zest for freshness
- Sun-dried tomatoes or olives for Mediterranean flair
- Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme for a bright finish
- Butter for a richer mouthfeel when finishing the dish
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Making Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is as easy as it is satisfying. This one-pan wonder comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or effortless meal prep. Below is your step-by-step guide to building layers of flavor with minimal fuss and cleanup.
🔥 1. Sear the Chicken Sausage
Start by heating a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a generous drizzle of olive oil to coat the pan.
- Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add sliced chicken sausage in a single layer.
- Let it cook for 2–3 minutes per side, undisturbed, to get that golden-brown sear.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — browning equals flavor. If needed, sear in batches.
🥦 2. Add the Broccoli
Once the sausage is browned:
- Toss in chopped broccoli florets (fresh or frozen).
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper.
- Stir and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, until the broccoli turns a vibrant green and begins to soften.
Tip: You want the broccoli to be tender-crisp, not mushy, as it will cook further with the orzo.
🧄 3. Toast the Garlic and Orzo
Push the sausage and broccoli to the side of the skillet to make room in the center.
- Add minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the dry orzo pasta and toast for 1–2 minutes. This adds a slightly nutty flavor and improves texture.
Tip: Toasting pasta is a pro move that adds unexpected depth to simple dishes.
4. Add Broth and Simmer
Now it’s time to turn it into a one-pot pasta dish:
- Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits.
- Stir everything together, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Tip: Stir once or twice during simmering to prevent sticking.
🧀 5. Finish with Parmesan and Serve
Once the orzo is cooked:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.
🍽️ Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage Orzo
- Use a large, deep skillet to accommodate pasta expansion.
- Preheat oil fully to get a good sear on the sausage.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking.
- Toast the orzo briefly with garlic for a deeper flavor.
- Undercook orzo slightly to avoid mushiness — it continues to cook after heat is off.
Looking for something festive? Check out Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken.
🧩 Flavor Variations & Customizations
This dish is easy to make your own. Here are some fun variations:
🌱 Vegetarian:
- Use veggie sausage or chickpeas.
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
🔥 Spice It Up:
- Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
- Try spicy Italian sausage.
🥬 More Veggies:
- Add spinach, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
🍗 Protein Swaps:
- Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or ground turkey.
🥗 Nutritional Benefits
This isn’t just easy and delicious — it’s good for you too.
- Chicken sausage: Leaner than pork, high in protein
- Broccoli: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
- Orzo: Complex carbs for energy
- Parmesan: Source of calcium and protein
You can even opt for whole wheat orzo for extra fiber.
📦 Storage, Freezing, and Meal Prep Tips
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is a perfect meal prep candidate.
🧊 Storing:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
❄️ Freezing:
- Freeze cooled leftovers in a resealable freezer bag.
- Keeps well for up to 2–3 months.
🔄 Reheating:
- Thaw overnight in fridge.
- Reheat in skillet with a splash of broth or microwave until hot.
🍴 What to Serve With It
Complete the meal with one of these simple sides:
- Roasted carrots or asparagus
- Side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or homemade rolls
- A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Add it directly to the skillet, adjusting cooking time slightly.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free orzo, rice, or quinoa, and ensure all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I use a different sausage?
Absolutely. Turkey, pork, or plant-based sausages all work — just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Cool completely, portion into containers, and store in the fridge. Reheat when ready.
How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?
Simmer just until al dente, then remove from heat. It will finish cooking in residual heat.
Is orzo rice or pasta?
Orzo is pasta, shaped like rice. Learn more here.
📝 Final Thoughts
This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is your new go-to for busy weeknights. It’s easy, nourishing, and downright delicious. Plus, the one-pan cleanup is a lifesaver.
Whether you’re making it for a quick family dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this dish delivers big-time flavor with little effort.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and dig into a warm bowl of comfort food done right — fast.
