Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Weeknight Winner
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a quick and tasty dinner? Ever had those nights where cooking feels like climbing Everest? Well, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo is your culinary Sherpa! It's proper simple and bursting with flavour.
Think Italian comfort food meets speedy weeknight dinner.
Chicken Sausage With Broccoli And Orzo : A Flavorful Journey
This isn't just any pasta dish. It’s a hug in a bowl! Think of those hearty Italian recipes your Nonna would make.
This Chicken Sausage And Broccoli dish takes that same soul, but speeds it up for modern life. It's super easy.
It's ready in about 40 minutes. This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping.
Why You'll Love This Easy Orzo Recipe
Honestly, the best part is how healthy it feels. Broccoli is packed with goodness. Chicken sausage offers lean protein. Plus, it's a One-pan orzo recipe , so the washing up is a breeze! Serve it on a chilly evening to warm the cockles of your heart! What makes this special is that you can adjust it.
Don't like broccoli? Chuck in some spinach. Want it spicy? Add more chilli flakes!
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Arsenal
Ready to whip up some seriously tasty Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo ? Honestly, it's easier than you think. Grab your apron.
Let's check what you'll need. This One-pan orzo recipe is gonna be a new weeknight favourite. I promise!
Main Ingredients for Chicken Sausage With Broccoli And Orzo
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml). Use a good quality one for best flavor, extra virgin is fab.
- Chicken Sausage: 1 pound (450g), casings removed. Italian or sweet Italian sausage is my go-to. Look for sausage that feels firm and smells nicely spiced. The better the sausage, the better the dish.
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 1 cup / 150g).
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (approx. 2 teaspoons). Fresh is always best. You know?
- Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp .
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional, for a bit of a kick).
- Orzo Pasta: 1 cup (200g).
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups (950ml), low sodium.
- Broccoli: 1 head , cut into florets (approx. 4 cups / 300g). The broccoli should be firm and green.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (60g), grated, plus extra for serving. Proper Parmesan, not the stuff in the green tin!
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Lemon wedges: For serving (optional). I always add lemon; it brightens everything up.
Seasoning Symphony for the Italian sausage orzo
Italian seasoning is key. A blend of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme, it adds that authentic touch. Red pepper flakes? Only if you like a little heat.
A pinch of nutmeg can also add a surprising warmth. Try a tiny bit! Remember to taste and adjust as you go.
Salt and pepper are your friends! This Easy orzo recipe is so adaptable.
Essential Equipment for Chicken Sausage Broccoli
- Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid. Seriously essential.
- Cutting board.
- Chef's knife. Sharp ones only!
- Garlic press (optional, but makes life easier).
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Honestly, you probably have most of this already. A deep frying pan could work too in a pinch. Don't let the lack of fancy gear stop you from making this Broccoli orzo pasta !
Cooking Method: One-Pan Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo Magic!
Honestly, weeknights can be a total drag, right? You're tired, hungry, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen.
That's where this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe comes in clutch! It's a one-pan wonder that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Think of it as your new go-to for a quick, comforting, and surprisingly healthy meal. It's so easy, even I can't mess it up.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place: Chop 1 pound (450g) of chicken sausage (remove the casing!). Dice one medium yellow onion. Mince 2 cloves garlic. Cut one head of broccoli into florets. Grate 1/2 cup (60g) of Parmesan cheese. Having everything prepped before you start is the key to speedy cooking.
- Time saving organization tips: I like to chop the onion and garlic while the skillet is heating up. Efficiency, mate! Also, pre-grated Parmesan is a lifesaver if you're really short on time. No shame in that game.
- Safety reminders: When working with a hot skillet, always use oven mitts or pot holders. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the sausage to ensure even browning.
step-by-step Process: From Hob to Table
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Crumble and cook the Chicken Sausage Broccoli mixture (sausage, casings removed!), breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This should take about 5- 7 minutes . Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes . Then, add the minced garlic, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy!). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water.
- Add 1 cup (200g) orzo pasta to the skillet and toast for 1- 2 minutes , stirring constantly. This step is crucial for a nutty flavor .
- Pour in 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the broccoli florets and cooked Italian Sausage Orzo . Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15- 20 minutes , or until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Make sure that liquid's all absorbed!
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Orzo Game
- Don't overcook the broccoli! Nobody likes mushy broccoli. Add it towards the end so it stays tender crisp. Aim for a bright green colour.
- Use good quality sausage. Seriously, it makes all the difference. I love using Italian or Sweet Italian sausage for that authentic flavour. It will really make this Chicken Sausage With Broccoli And Orzo pop.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Forgetting to toast the orzo! It really does enhance the flavour. Also, keep an eye on the liquid levels. You might need to add a splash more broth if it's drying out too quickly. This easy orzo recipe is a lifesaver, honestly. The one-pan orzo recipe makes cleaning up a breeze. Whether you call it Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo or Chicken Sausage With Broccoli And Orzo or simply Sausage With Orzo , it is delicious. Try it for your weeknight orzo dinner !
Recipe Notes for Perfect Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Alright, let's chat about making this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo absolutely amazing. Honestly, this is one of my go-to easy orzo recipes and I’ve learned a few tricks over time.
Serving It Up Right
Plating and presentation ideas: This one-pan orzo recipe looks great served in shallow bowls. You know, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
A lemon wedge adds a pop of color and brightness. Complementary sides or beverages: Honestly, some crusty bread for soaking up all that yummy sauce is key.
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness. I reckon a glass of crisp white wine (Pinot Grigio, anyone?) would be lovely too.
Storing for Later
Refrigeration guidelines: Got leftovers? No worries! Just pop the Italian sausage orzo in an airtight container and it’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days .
Freezing options (if applicable): While you can freeze it, the texture of the orzo might change a bit. I'd recommend eating it fresh if you can.
Reheating instructions: Microwave is fine for a quick lunch, but a pan with a splash of broth is best to bring it back to life.
Heat it over medium until heated through, around 5- 10 minutes .
Switching Things Up
Dietary adaptations: For a veggie version, ditch the chicken sausage with broccoli and orzo and add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Using plant based sausage is a great swap too. Seasonal ingredient swaps: Feel free to swap the broccoli for other greens, like spinach or kale, depending on what’s in season.
Easy peasy!
Nutrition Lowdown
Simplified nutrition information: Each serving has roughly 450 calories, 30g protein, 20g fat, and 40g carbs. Key health benefits: This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and veggies.
The broccoli is packed with vitamins, and the Chicken Sausage Broccoli adds that yummy savoury protein.
So there you have it! My little nuggets of wisdom for making the best Chicken Sausage And Broccoli Orzo . Now go on, give it a go, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to your liking.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can definitely prep components ahead. Sauté the sausage and onions in advance and store them in the fridge. Then, when you're ready to cook, just pick up from toasting the orzo!
Bear in mind that the orzo will absorb more liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a splash more broth when reheating. Think of it like a good cuppa best enjoyed fresh!
What's the best way to store leftover Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water to loosen it up and prevent it from drying out. Give it a good stir to incorporate the liquid.
Microwaving is the quickest way, but a pan on the hob works a treat too, just keep an eye on it!
I don't have orzo. Can I use another type of pasta for this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe?
Absolutely! Orzo is great because it cooks quickly and has a lovely texture, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even broken spaghetti will work well. Just be mindful of the cooking time; different pasta shapes may require slightly more or less liquid and time to cook through.
Keep an eye on it and adjust as needed, similar to when you're making a classic pasta bake.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo I can make?
Certainly! Simply swap out the chicken sausage for a plant based alternative. There are some brilliant vegetarian sausages out there these days that mimic the flavour and texture of meat beautifully. Alternatively, skip the sausage altogether and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Consider a sprinkle of smoked paprika to give it that savory depth that the sausage would normally bring. Bob's your uncle!
Can I freeze this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the orzo and broccoli might change slightly. The orzo can become a little softer and the broccoli a bit more mushy after thawing. If you do freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
When reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results, and add a bit more broth or water as needed. It's a bit like freezing a Sunday roast it'll still be tasty, but not quite the same as fresh.
I'm watching my sodium intake. Any tips for making a lower sodium Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo?
Great question! Use low-sodium chicken broth, and be mindful of the sausage you choose, as some can be quite high in sodium. Taste as you go and only add salt if absolutely necessary. You can boost the flavour with plenty of black pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end.
A bit like being on the Great British Bake Off it's all about balancing those flavours!
Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo Weeknight Winner
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 40g |
