Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that is as comforting as it is delicious: Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo! This one-pan wonder is bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. With juicy chicken sausage, vibrant broccoli, and tender orzo, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive right in and bring this dish to life!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, letting it warm up for a minute or two.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent, around 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen starts to smell fragrant!
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until it’s beautifully aromatic.
- Next, add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet, cooking until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Once it’s bubbling, stir in the orzo pasta and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you’re looking to add a little kick.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo becomes tender and soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- In the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, fold in the broccoli florets, allowing them to steam and brighten up the dish.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste for that perfect seasoning.
- Serve hot, generously topped with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other veggies such as bell peppers or spinach. If you enjoy a bit of zest, a squeeze of lemon right before serving can elevate the flavors even more!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses the sautéing technique to develop flavors before simmering everything. Sautéing the onion and garlic first helps build a rich base, while simmering ensures that the orzo absorbs the chicken broth, creating a creamy, savory result.
FAQ
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sausage varieties, such as turkey or pork, based on your preferences.
What can I serve this dish with?
This dish can stand alone beautifully, but you can pair it with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Conclusion
This Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. It’s quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and, most importantly, absolutely delicious. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this wonderful meal together!