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Easy Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo - 30 Minute Dinner Recipe

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

A comforting one-pot meal combining savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and tender orzo pasta in a flavorful Parmesan broth. Perfect for busy weeknights and ready in about 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz chicken sausage fully cooked, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups chicken broth low-sodium recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 4-quart pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a 4-quart or larger pot over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden-brown caramelized edges form on both sides.
  2. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn bright green and barely start to soften.
  4. Stir in the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender and the mixture creamy with just a little liquid remaining.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For a creamier texture, add 1/4 cup heavy cream before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add 2-3 tablespoons of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess.