Description
This hearty and flavorful skillet meal features browned chicken sausage, tender broccoli florets, and tender orzo pasta all cooked together in a savory chicken broth. Finished with grated Parmesan cheese, this one-pan dish is both comforting and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
Pasta and Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids and Seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced chicken sausage until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds a nice texture. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Onion: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This builds the flavor base of the dish.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook until they turn bright green and become slightly tender, around 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Orzo and Chicken Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, ensuring the pasta is evenly distributed.
- Simmer Until Orzo is Cooked: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the broth. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Sausage and Finish: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly. Allow the sausage to warm through.
- Add Parmesan and Season: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and gently stir it in. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or kale if preferred.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content.
- For a creamier texture, add a small splash of cream or milk before adding Parmesan cheese.
- This recipe reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the orzo is fully cooked but not mushy for optimal texture.
