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Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo

Hearty one-pot orzo dish with chicken sausage and broccoli in a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian chicken sausage sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups orzo pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove sausage and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add orzo pasta to the pan and stir to coat with the aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until orzo is lightly toasted.
  4. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Return the browned chicken sausage to the pan and add broccoli florets. Cook for 4-5 minutes until broccoli is tender-crisp and orzo has absorbed most of the liquid.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Can add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days.