Chicken Sausage Orzo

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Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delicious and easy dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken sausage, orzo pasta, and fresh broccoli. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It’s quick to prepare, full of wholesome ingredients, and is packed with flavor. The combination of savory chicken sausage, al dente orzo, and vibrant broccoli makes it both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the addition of Parmesan cheese gives it a rich, creamy finish that elevates the dish to the next level.

Making Chicken Sausage Orzo is also a great way to use pantry staples and fresh produce. If you’re looking for a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, this recipe is for you. It’s adaptable and can be tailored to suit your tastes by adding different vegetables or spices. Not only is it simple to make, but it is also a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family dinners or when hosting friends.

How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo

Making Chicken Sausage Orzo is straightforward and requires minimal preparation. This one-pot wonder is convenient because everything cooks in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld as it cooks. Let’s walk through the steps to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

2 cups orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
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)

Directions:

Heat the Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This initial step is crucial as it will help to cook the sausage evenly.
Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned. Browning the sausage adds great flavor to the dish, so don’t rush this step.
Add Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step releases the garlic’s natural oils, adding depth to your dish.
Incorporate Broccoli: Next, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is slightly tender but still vibrant and crisp.
Mix in Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta along with the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil, which will help the orzo absorb the flavors from the broth and other ingredients.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the orzo to be tender and for most of the liquid to be absorbed.
Add Cheese: After the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese should melt and create a creamy texture that will coat the orzo and sausage perfectly.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh note to the dish. Serve hot and enjoy your Chicken Sausage Orzo!

How to Serve Chicken Sausage Orzo

Chicken Sausage Orzo can be served in various ways to enhance your mealtime experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Directly from the Pot: Since this dish is made in one pot, you can serve it straight from the cooking pot on the table for a casual dining experience. This allows everyone to help themselves.
In Bowls: For a more elegant presentation, serve the Chicken Sausage Orzo in individual bowls. This way, you can garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Pair with Sides: Although this dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, you might consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
As a Meal Prep Option: If you’re preparing meals for the week, divide the orzo into meal prep containers. This dish keeps well and can be reheated easily, making it a convenient option for busy days.

How to Store Chicken Sausage Orzo

Storing Chicken Sausage Orzo is easy and can help you enjoy leftovers for several days. Here’s how to properly store this dish:

Refrigeration: Allow the orzo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the leftovers, place the cooled orzo in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Remember to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating: When you are ready to eat your stored Chicken Sausage Orzo, reheat it either in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the orzo seems dry after reheating, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo

To make the most out of your Chicken Sausage Orzo, here are some helpful tips:

Choose Quality Sausage: Select a good quality chicken sausage that you enjoy, whether it’s spicy, sweet, or smoked. The flavor of the sausage will greatly influence the overall taste of your dish.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Aim to cook the broccoli until it’s bright green and still slightly crisp. Overcooking can make it mushy and less appealing.
Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for even richer flavor. Store-bought broth works just fine, but homemade adds a personal touch.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. If you love heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, stick with the Italian seasoning.
Add More Veggies: You can easily add more vegetables to this dish. Peas, spinach, or bell peppers are all excellent choices that can provide additional flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with Garnishes: While parsley adds a nice touch, you could also consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for added brightness.

Variations

While the classic Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful dish on its own, you can mix things up in so many ways. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken sausage with vegetarian sausage or use sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Different Grains: For a healthier twist, substitute orzo with quinoa or farro. This will change the texture but add a nutritious element.
Add Cream: For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream after adding the Parmesan. This creates an even richer and more decadent dish.
Spicy Twist: If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy Italian sausage for a kick.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat orzo?
- Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great alternative and will add more fiber to your dish. Just be aware that whole wheat orzo may take slightly longer to cook.
Can I make this dish in advance?
- Absolutely! Chicken Sausage Orzo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Just be sure to reheat it gently to maintain its texture.
What can I do with leftovers?
- Leftover Chicken Sausage Orzo can be enjoyed as is, added to salads, or even mixed with eggs to create a delicious breakfast scramble.
Can I replace the chicken sausage with something else?
- Yes, you can use turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even ground meat if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
- To make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and replace it with a dairy-free alternative, or just skip the cheese altogether for a lighter meal.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli?
- Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but remember to add it at a slightly different time so it doesn’t become mushy. Add it when you stir in the orzo and broth.

Chicken Sausage Orzo is not only straightforward to prepare, but it is also a wholesome and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. With its delightful combination of ingredients and the ease of making it in one pot, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!