Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

Imagine tender orzo pasta, mingling with juicy chicken sausage and vibrant broccoli florets, all kissed by a delicate blend of herbs and spices. This Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is a symphony of flavors dancing in your mouth, a culinary hug on a plate!

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory of cozy weeknight dinners, laughter echoing in the kitchen, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Get ready to create your own cherished moments with this one-pan wonder!

• Effortlessly prepared in one skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• A delightful mix of savory chicken sausage, tender orzo, and nutritious broccoli.
• Visually appealing with vibrant colors that make every bite a treat.
• Easily adaptable to your favorite vegetables and seasonings for a personalized touch.

Ingredients for Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Orzo Pasta This small, rice-shaped pasta provides a delicate and comforting base for the skillet. Look for high-quality orzo that cooks evenly and doesn’t become mushy.

Chicken Sausage Choose your favorite flavor profile – Italian, sweet, or spicy – to add a burst of savory goodness to the dish. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.

Broccoli Florets These vibrant green florets add a healthy dose of vitamins and a pleasant, slightly bitter counterpoint to the richness of the sausage. Fresh broccoli is best, but frozen can be used in a pinch.

Chicken Broth This forms the liquid base for cooking the orzo and infusing the dish with a savory depth of flavor. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the final dish.

Olive Oil A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables and sausage, adding richness and flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice for its fruity aroma and health benefits.

Onion Diced onion forms the aromatic foundation of the dish, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onions work well in this recipe.

Garlic Minced garlic adds a pungent and savory note that complements the chicken sausage and vegetables. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Italian Seasoning A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds a classic Mediterranean flavor to the dish. You can also use a combination of individual dried herbs.

Red Pepper Flakes A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat and complexity to the flavor profile. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Parmesan Cheese Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and umami-rich finish to the dish. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Orzo and Broccoli

Add orzo pasta and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the orzo is almost cooked through. Stir in broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the orzo is cooked through.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet. Stir in Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for the perfect finishing touch. This dish is fantastic on its own or served with a side salad.

This Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is a testament to the fact that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, sparks conversations, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied and content. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will become a family favorite for years to come!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail this chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet, sear the chicken sausage first to lock in those savory juices. Then, while it rests, cook the orzo in the same pan, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Lastly, stir in the broccoli and sauce for a harmonious, one-pan masterpiece.

Add Your Touch

Feeling adventurous? Swap out the broccoli for spinach or kale for a nutritional boost. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick, or sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for a richer flavor. Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

Storing & Reheating

Leftovers are your friend! Store the chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Here are some helpful tips for your culinary journey:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken sausage; cook in batches to ensure a golden-brown crust.

• Toast the orzo in the pan before adding broth; it enhances its nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Blanch the broccoli briefly before adding it to the skillet; this helps it retain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture.

(Personal anecdote)

My family raved about this dish, especially when I added a squeeze of lemon juice at the end. It brightened the flavors and made it an instant hit at our weeknight dinner.

Conclusion for Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet :

In short, this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet isn’t just a meal; it’s a speedy, tasty adventure for your taste buds. It’s perfect for weeknights when you crave something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking with different vegetables or sausage flavors. This skillet dish is a one-pan wonder that brings joy to your table and makes mealtime a breeze. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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FAQs :

Can I use different vegetables in this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies you love. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach would be fantastic additions. Just keep in mind that different vegetables have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly. You want everything to be tender-crisp, not mushy. This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover veggies you have in the fridge, turning them into a delicious and healthy meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own signature version of this dish.

What kind of chicken sausage works best in the chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet?

I prefer using Italian-seasoned chicken sausage for this skillet, as the flavors really complement the broccoli and orzo. However, you can definitely use other varieties, such as spicy or apple-flavored chicken sausage, depending on your taste. Just make sure to remove the sausage from its casings before browning, unless you’re using pre-cooked sausage slices. The most important thing is to choose a high-quality sausage with good flavor, as it will add a lot of depth to the final dish. Experiment with different types to find your personal favorite!

How do I store and reheat leftover Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet?

Storing leftovers is easy! Just let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to four days. To reheat, you can microwave it for a couple of minutes, or warm it up in a skillet on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist. The stovetop method is my preferred way to reheat, as it helps to revive the flavors and keeps the orzo from getting too mushy. Leftovers also make a great lunch the next day!

Can I make this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prep some of the ingredients ahead of time. For example, you can chop the broccoli and onion, and even cook the orzo in advance. Store each ingredient separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook the skillet, simply proceed with the recipe as directed, starting with browning the chicken sausage. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. Just remember that the orzo might absorb more liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.