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Best Orzo Dinner Recipe | One-Pot Chicken Sausage & Broccoli Orzo

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this One-Pot Chicken Sausage & Broccoli Orzo might just be the best orzo dinner recipe you’ll ever try. Orzo pasta cooks directly in chicken broth, absorbing every ounce of savory flavor. Chicken sausage adds protein and a little spice, broccoli brings freshness and crunch, and Parmesan ties it all together with creamy, cheesy goodness. Everything comes together in one pot for minimal cleanup—making this the perfect weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting guests, this orzo dish checks all the boxes: hearty, wholesome, and undeniably delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken sausage sliced into rounds
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups orzo pasta
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
  1. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
  1. Add orzo pasta and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  2. Pour in chicken broth, stir well, and bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
Step 4: Add Broccoli & Sausage
  1. Stir in broccoli florets and cooked sausage.
  2. Cover and cook another 3–4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender.
Step 5: Make It Cheesy
  1. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy.
  2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, but texture may be softer after thawing.
Reheating: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen. Microwave in short intervals if needed.
🥄 Variations
Spicy Twist: Use spicy chicken sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Creamy Version: Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end for richness.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or small pasta shapes.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey sausage works just as well.
2. Do I need to pre-cook the broccoli?
No, it cooks quickly in the same pot.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap sausage for chickpeas or plant-based sausage.
4. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just add it straight in without thawing.
5. Do I have to use Parmesan?
No, you can use any cheese that melts well.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pot and double all ingredients.
7. What if my orzo absorbs all the broth too quickly?
Add a little extra broth or water until tender.
8. Can I make this creamy without cream?
Yes, add extra cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
9. Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
Absolutely—it reheats well for lunches.
10. What’s the best side dish?
A green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly.
🏁 Conclusion
This One-Pot Chicken Sausage & Broccoli Orzo truly earns its spot as the best orzo dinner recipe. It’s flavorful, hearty, and comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. The orzo cooks perfectly in broth, the sausage adds depth, and the broccoli keeps it fresh and balanced—all tied together with cheesy Parmesan.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping ahead for a busy week, this dish will quickly become a regular in your rotation. Simple ingredients, big flavor, one pan—that’s dinner done right.