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Chicken sausage broccoli orzo in a large pot with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley

Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

A comforting one-pot meal with savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and tender orzo pasta cooked in flavorful broth and finished with Parmesan cheese. Ready in 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta uncooked
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 12 oz chicken sausage sliced into rounds, fully cooked
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2.5 cups chicken broth low-sodium recommended
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage in a single layer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway, until both sides are deep golden brown.
  2. Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant and just turning golden. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  3. Add broccoli florets and stir to coat in the pan drippings. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and beginning to soften.
  4. Add the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  5. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir every 3 to 4 minutes to prevent sticking. The orzo is ready when tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan until fully melted and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream before adding the Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat. When reheating leftovers, stir in a splash of chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency. Orzo continues absorbing liquid as it sits, so leftovers will thicken — this is normal.