One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Name: One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 cooked chicken sausage links; 2 heads of broccoli; 3 garlic cloves; 1 cup dried orzo; 2 cups low sodium chicken broth; 1 Tbsp olive oil; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 lemon (juiced); ¼ cup Parmesan cheese; 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes

Posted on October 3, 2025

Main Dishes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This dish combines succulent chicken sausage with tender orzo and vibrant broccoli, creating a healthy and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious flavors, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Prepare this meal in just 20 minutes using one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken sausage and fiber from broccoli, it’s a well-balanced dish.
Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
Freezer Friendly: Keep frozen broccoli on hand for a quick meal anytime.

Tools and Preparation

To make your One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli seamlessly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large nonstick skillet with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

Large nonstick skillet with lid: Allows even cooking while minimizing sticking, essential for one-pot meals.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables like broccoli and garlic.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For this delicious One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

4-5 cooked chicken sausage links
2 heads of broccoli
3 garlic cloves
1 cup dried orzo
2 cups low sodium chicken broth
1 Tbsp. olive oil
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
1 lemon
¼ cup Parmesan
1 Tbsp. red pepper flakes

How to Make One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, allowing it to warm up before proceeding.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Once hot, add the chicken sausage, sliced into rounds, along with chopped broccoli stems. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the sausage is browned, flipping frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 30 seconds—taking care not to let it burn.

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add the dried orzo, stirring continuously for 1 minute to lightly toast it.

Step 5: Introduce Broth and Seasoning

Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, followed by salt and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Add Broccoli Florets

Once boiling, add in the remaining broccoli florets. Stir briefly to incorporate everything.

Step 7: Simmer It Down

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to simmer gently for 8-12 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom. If necessary, add more broth or water if liquid absorbs too quickly.

Step 8: Finish Up

Remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle with red pepper flakes, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

This easy and delicious one-pot chicken sausage orzo with broccoli is perfect for a family dinner. Serving it right can elevate the meal experience, making it even more enjoyable for everyone.

Add a Fresh Salad

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers pairs well. Drizzle with vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the dish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

Toasted garlic bread enhances the meal. The buttery, garlicky flavor is a great match for the savory orzo.

Include Steamed Vegetables

Steamed carrots or green beans can add color and additional nutrients. They are easy to prepare and provide a nice crunch.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds freshness. This brightens up the dish and enhances its visual appeal.

Offer Lemon Wedges

Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra citrus kick. The acidity balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.

Pair with a Light Dessert

A light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad can round out the meal nicely. It offers a refreshing end without being too heavy.

How to Perfect One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

To make your one-pot chicken sausage orzo with broccoli even better, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken sausage will enhance the flavor significantly.
Mind Your Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks. Stir regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding smoked paprika or Italian seasoning can give it an extra dimension.
Customize Your Veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on what you have available in your kitchen.
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some cream cheese or a splash of milk at the end of cooking.
Make It Ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge for leftovers. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Pairing sides with this one-pot meal can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the flavors of the main dish nicely.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These provide a delicious crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the orzo.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables adds protein and fiber while being refreshing.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness adds depth to your meal, making them an excellent pairing.
Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in yogurt sauce is refreshing and balances out the richness of the main dish.
Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter serves as a sweet note after your savory meal, keeping things light and healthy.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings texture and a tangy flavor that works well alongside this hearty dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and complements both broccoli and chicken sausage beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

Skipping the Pre-Cooking Step: Not browning the chicken sausage first can result in less flavor. Always cook the sausage until it’s browned for a richer taste.
Overcooking the Broccoli: Adding broccoli too early can lead to mushy florets. Add it later in the cooking process to keep it vibrant and crisp.
Neglecting the Stirring: If you forget to stir occasionally, the orzo may stick to the bottom of the pan. Make sure to stir regularly during cooking.
Ignoring Liquid Levels: Using too little broth can dry out the dish. Keep an eye on the liquid and add more if needed to ensure a creamy texture.
Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can leave your dish bland. Always season to your liking before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing in a container.

Freezing One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli healthier?

You can use whole grain orzo for added fiber and nutrients, and opt for low-sodium broth as well.

Can I customize One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference.

What can I serve with One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli?

The total cook time is around 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

One-Pot Chicken Sausage Orzo With Broccoli is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with various vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. Try it out for an easy and satisfying meal that your entire family will love!