Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
A cozy one-pan meal featuring tender orzo simmered in flavorful chicken broth, with browned chicken sausage and bright broccoli, finished with a stir of Parmesan for a creamy touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced Use pre-cooked varieties for convenience.
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups chicken broth Low-sodium preferred.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Grate fresh from a wedge for best texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a large pan or skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage in a single layer and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they begin to brighten and soften.
- Pour in the orzo and 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir to distribute the orzo evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, checking once or twice until the orzo is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan until melted, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to revive creaminess. Can be frozen for up to 2 months, but consider adding fresh broccoli when reheating for the best texture.