Whip Up This Delicious Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo in 30 Minutes!

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner option, look no further than Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo. This flavorful one-pot wonder combines tender chunks of chicken sausage, fresh broccoli florets, and chewy orzo pasta, all simmered in a savory broth and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect blend of protein, veggies, and carbs to satisfy your cravings and fuel your busy lifestyle.

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The Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage and Broccoli

Not only is this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken sausage is a leaner, healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, providing a boost of protein without all the extra fat and calories. Broccoli, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritional superstar. Together, these two ingredients create a well-balanced meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Ingredients for Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

• 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)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the Garlic and Broccoli

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the broccoli is slightly softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Simmer the Orzo

Next, add the orzo to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Finish with Cheese

Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the dish is creamy and cheesy.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo with the fresh parsley and serve warm, either on its own or alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo dish provides approximately 400 calories, 30 grams of protein, 45 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. The combination of lean chicken sausage and nutrient-dense broccoli makes this a well-balanced and satisfying meal that will keep you feeling full and energized.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe is its versatility. Here are some suggestions for variations and substitutions:

• Sausage Substitutions: You can use turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausage in place of the chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Substitutions: Instead of broccoli, you can use other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free alternative, such as quinoa or brown rice.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides to round out the meal. Some great options include a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea would be the perfect accompaniment.

FAQs About Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

What to serve with chicken and orzo?

Some great sides to serve with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo include a fresh green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp white wine.

How to cook and serve orzo?

Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and easily. To cook orzo, simply boil it in salted water for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s tender but still firm. Orzo can be served in a variety of ways, such as in soups, salads, or as a side dish, like in this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe.

Do you cook orzo before adding to soup on Reddit?

When adding orzo to soup, it’s generally recommended to cook the orzo separately before adding it to the soup. This ensures that the orzo cooks evenly and doesn’t absorb too much liquid from the soup, resulting in a mushy texture. In the case of this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo recipe, the orzo is cooked directly in the broth, which allows it to absorb the flavors while maintaining a nice, chewy texture.

What is the difference between chicken sausage and regular sausage?

The main difference between chicken sausage and regular (pork) sausage is the type of meat used. Chicken sausage is made with ground chicken or turkey, while regular sausage is made with pork. Chicken sausage is generally leaner and lower in fat and calories compared to traditional pork sausage, making it a healthier option.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
• One-Pot Ranch Chicken, Bacon, and Broccoli Pasta
• One-Pot Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice
• Broccoli Salad

Conclusion

With its delicious blend of chicken sausage, broccoli, and orzo, this Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, nutrition, and is incredibly easy to prepare. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying and wholesome meal that the whole family will love!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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