Description
Delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo skillet with broccoli – quick, comforting, and crowd-pleasing!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) Italian chicken sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup/150g), diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1½ cups (300g) dry orzo pasta
- 3 cups (710ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups (340g) broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Sausage Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron or nonstick with high sides) over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on both sides. The sausage doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage—it will continue cooking throughout the process. You’re looking for that beautiful caramelization that builds flavor for the entire Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and just beginning to caramelize at the edges. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. This aromatic base is crucial for developing depth in your skillet dinner.
- Step 3: Toast and Cook the Orzo Add the dry orzo to the skillet and stir to coat in the oil and aromatics. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until some pieces begin turning golden. This step adds a nutty dimension to your pasta. Pour in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well, then bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking Return the seared chicken sausage to the skillet and gently stir to incorporate. Place the broccoli florets on top and cover again. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, and the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash more broth; if too wet, uncover and cook for a few additional minutes.
- Step 5: Finish and Serve Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a silky finish to your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let stand for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve directly from the skillet for an impressive presentation.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg