Description
A flavorful and comforting Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe that combines tender orzo pasta with sautéed chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and a savory blend of garlic and Italian seasoning, finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley garnish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly toasted but not burnt.
- Sauté Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften but remain bright green and slightly crisp.
- Add Orzo and Broth: Add the orzo pasta, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve: Spoon the orzo mixture onto serving plates and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream just before serving.
- You can substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
