Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet – 5 Easy Steps to a One-Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that comes together in a flash, then you’ve found it! This Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet – 5 Easy Steps to a One-Pan Dinner is one of my go-to recipes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish special is how the savory chicken sausage mingles with tender broccoli and fluffy orzo pasta, all cooked in one pan. It’s not just quick; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a hit at family gatherings or whenever you need a cozy meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
• Quick cooking: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep some ingredients ahead of time to save even more time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is a breeze. You’ll find that they are simple, wholesome, and likely already in your pantry or fridge!

For the Skillet

• 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using feta cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.

How to Make Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet – 5 Easy Steps to a One-Pan Dinner

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it creates the perfect base for browning the chicken sausage. The oil helps prevent sticking and enhances flavor as it warms up.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Next, add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. This step adds depth to your dish, as browning releases those delicious flavors that make every bite so savory.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Once your sausage is golden brown, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about one minute until it’s fragrant. Garlic brings an incredible aroma and flavor that will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Now it’s time to add the uncooked orzo pasta. Toast it lightly in the skillet for about 1–2 minutes while stirring frequently. This not only gives your pasta a nice nutty flavor but also helps it hold up better during cooking.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 8 minutes. After this time, add those vibrant broccoli florets on top, cover again, and cook for another 4–5 minutes until everything is perfectly tender.

After removing from heat, stir in some Parmesan cheese along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like an extra kick. Serve warm with additional cheese on top if desired—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet – 5 Easy Steps to a One-Pan Dinner

Creating a delicious one-pan meal is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to make your Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet even better.

• Choose quality chicken sausage: Opt for chicken sausage that is minimally processed and contains no fillers. This ensures you’re getting the best flavor and nutrition for your meal.
• Toast the orzo: Lightly toasting the uncooked orzo before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to the dish. It’s a simple step that makes a noticeable difference!
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the amount of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes based on your preference. This personal touch will make the dish uniquely yours!
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost nutrition and add variety. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also increases the health benefits.
• Make it ahead: This skillet meal can be prepared in advance! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

How to Serve Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet – 5 Easy Steps to a One-Pan Dinner

Presenting your Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet with flair takes it from home-cooked comfort food to a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and flavor-wise, adding a touch of freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for those who love a zesty kick. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over each serving elevates all the flavors beautifully.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: Offering additional grated Parmesan allows guests to customize their servings with a cheesy topping that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread not only adds texture but also makes for an irresistible companion, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing brings freshness and balances out the richness of the skillet.
• Roasted vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances your meal’s nutritional value while adding vibrant colors and flavors that pair wonderfully with your skillet.
• Steamed rice or quinoa: For those looking for extra carbs, serving a side of steamed rice or fluffy quinoa provides additional substance without overpowering the main dish.

With these tips, garnishing ideas, and side recommendations, you’re set to impress your family or guests with this easy yet elegant one-pan dinner! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftover dish into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through, stirring halfway.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

Can I use other types of sausage in this Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet?

Absolutely! Although this recipe highlights chicken sausage, feel free to swap it with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative if you prefer. Just ensure that any substitutes are fully cooked before adding them to the skillet.

How do I make Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet healthier?

To boost the nutritional value of your Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet, consider adding more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. You could also use whole grain orzo instead of regular orzo for added fiber.

Can I prepare Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage guidelines provided above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and satisfaction after a busy day. Enjoy each bite as you share it with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or spices to make this dish truly your own. Happy cooking!