Name: Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 12 ounces chicken sausage (cut into rounds); 1/2 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or more, to taste); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 14 fluid ounce can tomato sauce; 2 cups broccoli (cut into small florets); 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped); to taste Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

This Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, and vibrant broccoli. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a cozy dinner party. With a delicious tomato sauce base and a sprinkle of cheese on top, it promises to be a hit for both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into why you’ll want to add this recipe to your cooking repertoire!

Why Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is Worth Your Time

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. In about 30 minutes, you can have a hearty meal on the table. The combination of protein from the chicken sausage and the nutrients from the broccoli makes it a well-rounded choice. Plus, the orzo pasta absorbs all the flavors beautifully, creating a satisfying and comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick family meal or something to impress guests, this dish fits the bill.

What We’re Using

To make this delightful Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces chicken sausage, cut into rounds
1/2 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning or more, to taste
2 cups chicken broth
1 (14 fluid ounce) can tomato sauce
2 cups broccoli, cut into small florets
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
Freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional, to taste
Salt & pepper to taste

Setup & Equipment

Before we get cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen essentials ready:

Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife for prep work

Build Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Step by Step

Let’s walk through the process of creating this delicious dish, step by step.

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Orzo and Seasoning

Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and Italian seasoning. Mix well to coat the orzo with the flavors from the sausage and aromatics.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomato Sauce

Carefully add the chicken broth and tomato sauce to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the broccoli florets and chopped red bell pepper. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for a creamy finish.

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, here are some great alternatives:

Replace the chicken sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier option.
Substitute the broccoli with spinach or kale if you prefer leafy greens.
Try adding other vegetables like zucchini or yellow squash.

Steer Clear of These

When making this dish, it’s best to avoid:

Overcooking the orzo, as it can become mushy and lose its pleasant texture.
Using low-quality canned tomato sauce, as it can affect the overall flavor of the dish.
Skipping the seasoning; this is key to elevating the flavor profile of your Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To ensure your Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli stays fresh:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the orzo’s texture.

You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Explore More

If you love this recipe, you may also enjoy:

Honey Garlic Chicken – A sweet and savory dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Chicken Taco Salad – A fresh and vibrant salad packed with flavors.

In Closing

Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a versatile and delicious dish that truly shines with its comforting flavors and simple preparation. Whether you whip it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serve it at your next gathering, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. The blend of textures and tastes creates a satisfying meal that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Enjoy this delightful dish, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients!