Save to Pinterest When weeknights get hectic, there is nothing quite as satisfying as a complete meal that comes together in a single pan. This One-Pan Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is the ultimate comfort food solution, combining savory proteins with tender grains and vibrant greens. The golden-browned chicken sausage provides a hearty base, while a splash of lemon juice and freshly grated Parmesan transform simple ingredients into a bright, creamy masterpiece.
Save to Pinterest The magic of this dish lies in the layering of flavors. By browning the sausage first and then toasting the orzo in those savory drippings, you build a foundation of taste that carries through every bite. The broccoli steams right on top of the pasta, ensuring it stays perfectly tender-crisp without the need for extra pots or pans.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage, sliced
- Pasta & Grains: 1 cup (180 g) orzo pasta (uncooked)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 3 cups (300 g) broccoli florets, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 3–4 garlic cloves (minced), fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Liquids: 2½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth, juice of ½–1 lemon
- Dairy: ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Oils & Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2
- In the same skillet, add diced onion. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add uncooked orzo to the skillet and toast, stirring, for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Step 4
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5
- Stir in broccoli florets and return sausage to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 4–5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo is al dente.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan until creamy, then add lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to thicken, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Toasting the orzo is a crucial step as it adds a wonderful nutty depth to the final dish. Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and a smooth, creamy melt. Be sure to let the skillet rest for five minutes after cooking; this allows the orzo to absorb any remaining liquid and thicken into a luscious consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile. You can substitute the chicken sausage for turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly variation. For those with dietary restrictions, use a gluten-free orzo and double-check your sausage labels for potential allergens. If you love a bright citrus punch, try adding a bit of fresh lemon zest along with the juice.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this one-pan wonder on its own for a complete meal, or pair it with a simple green salad for extra crunch. A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any of the creamy lemon-parmesan sauce left on your plate.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this effortless and delicious dinner that proves you don't need a lot of time or tools to create a wholesome, flavorful meal. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this chicken sausage and orzo skillet is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, substitute spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for broccoli. Adjust cooking times accordingly—tender greens like spinach should be added in the last 2 minutes.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
While best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. The orzo may absorb more liquid upon reheating, so add a splash of broth when warming.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free orzo (or rice-shaped gluten-free pasta) and ensure your chicken sausage is certified gluten-free. The cooking method remains the same.
- → What type of chicken sausage works best?
Italian, sun-dried tomato, or spinach feta varieties all work beautifully. Pre-cooked sausage reduces prep time, while raw sausage adds more rendered fat and flavor.
- → Why toast the orzo before cooking?
Toasting the dry orzo in hot oil for 1-2 minutes develops a nutty, depth-enhancing flavor and helps the pasta hold its texture during simmering.
- → Can I use vegetable broth instead?
Yes, vegetable broth makes this dish vegetarian-friendly. The flavor profile shifts slightly but remains delicious—consider adding extra herbs to compensate.