Save to Pins This One-Pan Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a vibrant and comforting meal that brings together golden-browned chicken sausage, tender orzo, and crisp broccoli. Finished with a burst of fresh lemon and creamy Parmesan, it is a satisfying, weeknight-friendly dinner that simplifes your evening routine without compromising on flavor.
Save to Pins The secret to this recipe is in the layering of textures. By searing the sausage first to achieve a golden-brown crust and then toasting the orzo in the same pan, you build deep, savory layers that are brightened by the final addition of lemon juice. It is a wholesome dish that feels elevated yet remains incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 cup (180 g) orzo pasta (uncooked)
- 3 cups (300 g) broccoli florets
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2½ cups (600 ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Juice of ½–1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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 adds a nutty depth to the dish, so don't skip that step! For the best flavor and melting, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. If you enjoy extra citrus flavor, consider adding fresh lemon zest along with the juice.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free variation, use gluten-free orzo and verify that your sausage brand is gluten-free. If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty skillet dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or warm, crusty bread to soak up the savory, lemon-kissed sauce.
Save to Pins Hearty, healthy, and high in protein, this One-Pan Chicken Sausage Broccoli Orzo is a reliable weeknight staple that guarantees a delicious meal with very little effort. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory sausage and bright citrus in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute chicken sausage with another protein?
Yes, turkey sausage or plant-based sausages work well as alternatives and maintain the dish's flavor profile.
- → How do I achieve the best texture for orzo in this dish?
Toast the orzo lightly in the skillet before adding broth, then simmer until al dente to get a nutty flavor and perfect tenderness.
- → Is it important to add lemon juice at the end?
Adding lemon juice after cooking brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the sausage and Parmesan.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free orzo and checking sausage ingredients, you can enjoy this dish without gluten concerns.
- → What are good side options to serve with this dish?
Pairing with a fresh green salad or crusty bread complements the hearty and savory elements of the skillet meal.