Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Name: Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Olive oil; Chicken sausage, sliced; Broccoli, chopped; Kosher salt; Ground black pepper; Minced garlic; Orzo pasta; Chicken broth; Shredded parmesan cheese

Posted on November 3, 2025

Main Dishes

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The Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is an easy one-pan meal that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish combines the savory taste of chicken sausage with fresh broccoli and tender orzo. The creamy, melty parmesan cheese adds a delightful finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this skillet meal is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in one skillet.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken sausage and vitamins from broccoli.
Customizable Flavors: Easily swap out vegetables or add spices to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly: A tasty dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-haves for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface that makes chopping vegetables safe and efficient.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts and reduces prep time.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help achieve the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

Large drizzle of olive oil
8 ounces Chicken Sausage, cut into 1/4 to 1/2 slices
2-3 cups broccoli, roughly chopped
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup Orzo pasta
2 cups Chicken Broth
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

How to Make Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

In a large skillet on medium-high heat, drizzle a good amount of olive oil in the pan. Once hot:
1. Add the sliced chicken sausage.
2. Cook on one side for 2-3 minutes until browned.
3. Flip each slice and cook for another minute or so to brown the other side.

Step 2: Add the Broccoli

Now it’s time to incorporate some greens:
1. Add the chopped broccoli to the pan.
2. Season with a generous pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper.
3. Cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.

Step 3: Mix in Garlic and Orzo

This step brings even more flavor into play:
1. Add minced garlic and orzo to the skillet.
2. Stir everything together and heat for another minute.

Step 4: Pour in Chicken Broth

Now we’ll bring everything together:
1. Add chicken broth into the mixture.
2. Stir well and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, turn down the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the orzo is soft.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese

The final step adds creaminess:
1. Once all liquid is absorbed, add shredded parmesan cheese.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Serve immediately, sprinkling more parmesan cheese over if desired.

Enjoy your hearty Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet!

How to Serve Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Serving Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit different occasions. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for both family dinners and gatherings with friends.

Pair with Fresh Salad

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing complements the richness of the parmesan cheese.

Add a Bread Option

Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread can be served alongside to soak up any delicious juices from the skillet.
Focaccia: Soft focaccia with herbs provides a nice texture and flavor alongside the meal.

Garnish with Extra Cheese

Parmesan Shavings: Freshly shaved parmesan on top enhances the savory notes of the dish.
Feta Crumbles: Adding crumbled feta can introduce a tangy element that pairs well with the ingredients.

How to Perfect Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

To ensure your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the taste profile.
Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality chicken sausage for better flavor and texture in your dish.
Proper Cooking Time: Ensure you do not overcook the orzo; it should be tender but not mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for your preference.
Stir Gently: When mixing in cheese at the end, stir gently to avoid breaking up the orzo too much.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Adding side dishes to your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet can create a more fulfilling meal. Here are some ideas for sides that pair beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers roasted until caramelized enhance any meal.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and lemon dressing provides a nutritious balance.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that complements savory dishes excellently.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that contrasts nicely with creamy textures.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting addition that’s always well-received.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

Ignoring ingredient prep: Not chopping the chicken sausage or broccoli uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent results.
Overcooking the broccoli: Cooking the broccoli too long can make it mushy. Aim for bright green and slightly tender by cooking just until it reaches that point.
Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your dish properly might result in bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper during cooking and taste as you go!
Using the wrong pasta: Substituting orzo with a different type of pasta may alter cooking times and texture. Stick to orzo for best results.
Not monitoring liquid absorption: If you don’t keep an eye on how much liquid is left, the orzo may not cook properly. Stir occasionally and adjust heat as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help rehydrate if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet?

Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is an easy one-pan meal combining savory chicken sausage with tender broccoli and creamy orzo pasta.

Can I customize this Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach and swap out chicken sausage with turkey or lamb sausage based on your preference.

How can I make Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet healthier?

To make it healthier, use whole grain orzo and add extra veggies. You could also reduce the amount of cheese used.

What should I serve with Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet?

This dish is quite filling on its own but pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and proteins while savoring this delightful one-pan meal!