Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo
Chicken sausage and broccoli orzo with lemon and Parmesan is a quick 30-minute skillet meal using simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry orzo quick-cooking and gives a creamy texture
- 1 lb chicken sausage smoked or fully cooked, cut into rounds
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets finely chopped for fast cooking; frozen is fine
- 3 cloves garlic use fresh for best flavor; extra can be added
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for browning and taste
- 4 cups chicken broth boosts savoriness
- 1 handful Parmesan cheese grated, for richness
- 1 lemon zest and juice adds brightness
- salt and black pepper to taste, adjust as desired
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano optional, extra flavor
- pinch red pepper flakes for mild heat
Instructions
Warm olive oil:
In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat.Brown sliced sausage:
Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.Remove sausage:
Remove sausage, leaving drippings in the pan.Toast orzo:
Add orzo to the same skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes.Sauté garlic:
Stir in minced garlic and cook until aromatic.Simmer broth:
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.Return sausage:
Return the browned sausage to the skillet.Add broccoli:
Once simmering, scatter chopped broccoli on top.Cook broccoli:
Cook for about 5 minutes until broccoli is tender.Mix in lemon and cheese:
When orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, mix in lemon zest, juice, and Parmesan.Season to taste:
Season with salt, pepper, or extra broth to reach desired consistency.