Name: Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo: A Delicious Recipe!
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 (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m a fan of any recipe that delivers great flavor without a ton of effort, and this one checks all the boxes. It’s wholesome, rich in protein, and packed with vegetables. The orzo soaks up all the delicious chicken broth and seasoning, creating a risotto-like texture that feels indulgent but takes half the time. Plus, it’s super flexible—I can swap the sausage or add more veggies depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

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

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 (for garnish)

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
I add the sliced chicken sausage and cook it for 5–7 minutes until it’s browned.
Then I stir in the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I add the broccoli florets and let them cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Next, I stir in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper. I bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
I cover the pot and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Once it’s ready, I remove it from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and everything is well combined.
I serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes a total of 30 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cook time.

Variations

When I want to mix things up, I sometimes swap the chicken sausage for turkey or even a plant-based version for a vegetarian twist. I’ve added spinach, zucchini, or peas for extra greens. For a richer finish, I like to stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream before serving. If I want a little kick, I add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. The microwave works well too, especially for individual portions. I always give it a quick stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often cook it earlier in the day and reheat it at dinnertime. It holds up well and the flavors continue to develop as it sits.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Sure. While I prefer orzo for its creamy texture, I’ve also used small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous with great results.

What kind of chicken sausage works best?

I usually go for a pre-cooked variety like Italian-style chicken sausage, but smoked or spicy versions work great too depending on the flavor I’m going for.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, I skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. I also use olive oil instead of cream if I want to keep it lighter.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, I let it cool completely and freeze it in individual portions. When I reheat, I add a bit of broth to help revive the texture.

Conclusion

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is everything I look for in a weeknight meal—quick, hearty, flavorful, and family-approved. It’s become a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy to adapt, and the one-pot method keeps things simple. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe always brings comfort to the table.