One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Name: One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 cooked chicken sausage links; 2 heads of broccoli; 3 garlic cloves; 1 cup dried orzo; 2 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 Tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Juice of 1 lemon; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese; 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Posted on September 24, 2025

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One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. This dish combines vibrant broccoli with savory chicken sausage and creamy orzo in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s not only packed with protein and fiber but also provides a burst of flavor that will please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this meal is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This one-pot wonder comes together in just 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken sausage and nutrients from broccoli, this dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash—perfect for those hectic weeknights!
Kid-Friendly Flavor: The mild flavors of orzo and chicken sausage make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences, making it adaptable for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your preparation and cooking time.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large nonstick skillet with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Large nonstick skillet with lid: Ideal for cooking everything in one pot while preventing sticking and ensuring even heat distribution.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you valuable time.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Try out this easy, one-pot dinner! This meal is balanced with protein from the chicken sausage and fiber from the broccoli. You can even keep frozen broccoli in the freezer and the rest of the ingredients on hand to throw together a fast weeknight family meal.

For the Main Dish

4-5 cooked chicken sausage links
2 heads of broccoli
3 garlic cloves
1 cup dried orzo
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 Tbsp. olive oil
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper

For Garnish

1 lemon
¼ cup Parmesan
1 Tbsp. red pepper flakes

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large nonstick skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Add olive oil.

Step 2: Cook Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Stems

Once hot, add chicken sausage and chopped broccoli stems. Cook for 4-5 minutes until sausage is browned, flipping and stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add orzo to the skillet and stir for 1 minute, letting it lightly toast.

Step 5: Add Broth Seasoning

Add broth, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 6: Incorporate Broccoli Florets

Once skillet has reached a boil, add broccoli florets and give the dish a quick stir.

Step 7: Simmer Until Cooked

Reduce heat to low, cover, and maintain a gentle simmer for 8-12 minutes. Lift the lid occasionally to stir and prevent sticking; ensure orzo is cooked through as broth absorbs. If necessary, add more broth or water.

Step 8: Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes; adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Serving One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only filling but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the dish for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with a Side Salad

Mixed Greens: Serve alongside a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to add freshness.

Add Bread for Dipping

Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.

Serve in Individual Bowls

Personal Touch: Present the orzo in individual bowls for a more intimate dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy their portion.

Top with Extra Cheese

Cheesy Delight: For cheese lovers, offer extra grated Parmesan on the side so everyone can add their desired amount.

Include Lemon Wedges

Zesty Flavor: Provide lemon wedges on the side, letting guests squeeze fresh juice over their servings for added zest.

How to Perfect One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Achieving the perfect One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli is easy with a few tips. These pointers will enhance flavor and ensure optimal cooking results.

Bold Flavoring: Use low-sodium chicken broth for rich flavor without excessive salt.
Proper Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent the orzo from becoming mushy; check after 8 minutes.
Consistent Stirring: Stir regularly while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even absorption of broth.
Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and broccoli for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Adjust Spiciness: Customize heat levels by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes according to your preference.
Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Complementing your One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great side dishes that pair perfectly.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic enhances flavors and adds nutrients.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and richness.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a vibrant color and crisp texture.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes offers a healthy grain option.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs makes an excellent pairing alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the orzo can lead to a bland flavor. Make sure to toast it lightly in the skillet for about a minute before adding other ingredients.
Overcooking the Broccoli: Cooking the broccoli too long can make it mushy. Add the florets at the right time to keep them crisp and vibrant.
Not Adjusting Liquid Amount: Each brand of orzo may absorb different amounts of liquid. Be prepared to add more broth or water as needed during cooking.
Ignoring Stirring: Failing to stir frequently can cause sticking. Remember to lift the lid and stir often while simmering to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Using Regular Chicken Broth: Regular chicken broth can be too salty. Opt for low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your dish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

item Store in an airtight container.
item Can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

item Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
item Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
item It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

item Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
item Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
item Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Feel free to mix in different spices according to your taste preferences!

Can I use another type of sausage?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even lamb sausage for varied flavors.

Is One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The flavors are mild, and kids often enjoy the combination of chicken sausage and pasta, making it a great family meal option.

What should I serve with this dish?

This one-pot meal is complete by itself, but you could pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for added texture.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Its balance of protein and veggies makes it a healthy choice that even kids will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a personal touch!

Main Dishes

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