Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

If you’re searching for a quick and delicious meal, look no further than this Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends. The combination of savory chicken sausage, fresh broccoli, and tender orzo pasta creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Plus, it all cooks in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this meal is perfect for those busy days when time is short.
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans! This recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Packed with Nutrients: The broccoli adds a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals, making this dish not just tasty but good for you too.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will love this hearty meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools on hand will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking everything in one pan, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Help achieve accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet:

• Large drizzle of olive oil
• 8 ounces Chicken Sausage, cut into 1/4 to 1/2 slices
• 2-3 cups broccoli, roughly chopped
• kosher salt
• ground black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup Orzo pasta
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

How to Make Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

In a large skillet on medium-high heat, drizzle a good amount of olive oil in the pan. Once hot:
1. Add the sliced chicken sausage.
2. Cook on one side for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Flip each slice and cook on the other side until browned (about another minute).

Step 2: Add Broccoli

Now that the sausage is browned:
1. Add the chopped broccoli to the pan.
2. Season with a large pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper.
3. Cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly soft.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic and Orzo

Next:
1. Add minced garlic and orzo to the skillet.
2. Stir everything together well.
3. Heat for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add Chicken Broth

Now it’s time to bring it all together:
1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir lightly.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Turn the heat down low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the orzo is soft.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Finally:
1. Once all the liquid is absorbed, add shredded parmesan cheese.
2. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Serve immediately and sprinkle more parmesan cheese over if desired.

Enjoy your delectable Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet!

How to Serve Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Serving your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet can elevate this delightful dish even more. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a burst of freshness.
• Basil Leaves – A few whole basil leaves on top can enhance the flavor profile beautifully.

Accompanying Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious contrast.
• Crusty Baguette – A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavors.

Salad Pairing

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette complements the dish nicely.
• Caesar Salad – The rich flavors of Caesar salad provide a nice balance to the skillet’s taste.

Extra Cheese

• Additional Parmesan – Offering extra grated parmesan cheese allows guests to customize their dish further.
• Feta Crumbles – Adding feta cheese can introduce a creamy tang that contrasts well with the other ingredients.

How to Perfect Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Creating the perfect Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your cooking game.

• Bold seasoning – Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they bring out the flavors in the ingredients.
• Fresh ingredients – Use fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken sausage for better taste and texture.
• Cook pasta properly – Ensure orzo is cooked al dente for a nice bite; it will absorb flavors better.
• Stir frequently – Regular stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking throughout the skillet.
• Add lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish and enhances the overall flavor.
• Experiment with spices – Try adding red pepper flakes or Italian herbs for an extra kick of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables with olive oil and roast them until caramelized for added depth.
2. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and complement the main dish’s textures beautifully.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes provides a nutritious boost alongside your skillet.
4. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and contrasts well with the warm skillet meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies work as both a side and an additional main component.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob brings a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Overcooking the sausage: Cooking the chicken sausage too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice golden-brown finish without drying it out.
• Ignoring the texture of broccoli: If you cook broccoli for too long, it will lose its vibrant color and crunch. Cook just until bright green and tender.
• Under-seasoning: Not seasoning your dish properly can lead to bland flavors. Use salt and pepper generously to enhance the taste of each ingredient.
• Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds depth to your dish. Don’t skip it, as it infuses flavor when added at the right time.
• Not letting orzo absorb liquid: Ensure that the orzo is allowed to simmer until all the liquid is absorbed. This ensures a creamy consistency in your skillet.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings as well!

Can I use whole wheat orzo instead?

Yes, whole wheat orzo is a great alternative that adds fiber and nutrients without compromising flavor.

What can I substitute for chicken sausage?

You can use turkey sausage or any lean sausage option you prefer for a lighter meal without losing flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and makes for easy reheating during busy weekdays.

Conclusion

This Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, Orzo Skillet is an appealing and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights. Its one-pan nature means less cleanup while still packing plenty of flavor. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies and enjoy a delicious meal tailored just for you!

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