Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a wholesome meal. The orzo cooks right in the broth, which makes it creamy without adding extra steps. The chicken sausage gives the dish a rich, savory flavor, while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. It’s also versatile—I can switch up the protein or toss in other veggies, depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups orzo pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
I add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
I stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
I add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
I stir in the orzo, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
I cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
I remove the pot from the heat and stir in the Parmesan until melted and creamy.
I serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Creamy version: I stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream before serving.
Different sausage: Turkey sausage, pork sausage, or plant-based sausage all work well.
Extra veggies: I add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
Cheesy twist: I mix in a handful of mozzarella or fontina cheese for extra creaminess.
Spicy kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or spicy chicken sausage makes it bolder.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo, as it tends to absorb liquid while sitting. I reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make this with a different pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells also work, but orzo gives the best creamy texture.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I just add it straight to the pot without thawing. It cooks quickly.

How do I keep the orzo from sticking?

Stirring occasionally while it cooks in the broth keeps the orzo from clumping together.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mild flavors, cheesy finish, and small pasta shape make it a family favorite.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the orzo will continue absorbing liquid. When reheating, I simply add more broth to bring it back to the right consistency.

Conclusion

This chicken sausage and broccoli orzo is a quick, comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s creamy, filling, and customizable, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Whether I make it as written or play with the variations, it’s always a hit at the table.