Looking for a quick, healthy, and family-friendly dinner that doesn’t leave a pile of dishes? This Chicken Sausage, Broccoli & Orzo Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein-rich chicken sausage, nutrient-dense broccoli, and tender orzo pasta, this dish delivers comfort food vibes without the guilt.
Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a wholesome family dinner, this skillet recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ One-pan cleanup – less mess, less stress.
- ✅ Balanced & nutritious – protein + veggies + carbs in one meal.
- ✅ Quick & easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
- ✅ Family-friendly – mild flavors that both adults & kids enjoy.
- ✅ Customizable – add more veggies, swap grains, or spice it up.
🥦 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required for this skillet meal (serves 4):
- 12 oz (340g) chicken sausage – sliced into rounds (spicy, smoked, or mild).
- 1 cup orzo pasta – uncooked.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen.
- 1 medium onion – finely chopped.
- 3 cloves garlic – minced.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for creaminess).
- Salt & black pepper – to taste.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat).
- Juice of ½ lemon – for brightness.
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for a perfect skillet meal:
- Cook the sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics
- In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the orzo
- Stir in the orzo, toasting lightly for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add broccoli & sausage
- Stir in broccoli florets and return the sausage to the skillet.
- Cook another 5 minutes until broccoli is tender and orzo is creamy.
- Finish & serve
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.
📊 Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 23g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
(Values vary depending on sausage brand & cheese used.)
💡 Expert Tips & Variations
- Make it creamy → Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Add more veggies → Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work well.
- Swap the grain → Try quinoa, couscous, or whole-wheat pasta instead of orzo.
- Gluten-free option → Use gluten-free orzo or rice.
- Meal prep friendly → Stores in the fridge for 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth.
❓ FAQ
1. Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini, penne, or rotini work. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. Is chicken sausage healthy?
Compared to pork sausage, chicken sausage is lower in fat and calories but still high in protein. Look for low-sodium, nitrate-free varieties.
3. Can I freeze chicken sausage orzo?
Yes! Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
🍷 Serving Suggestions
Pair this skillet with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
- A glass of white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
🥘 Final Thoughts
This Chicken Sausage, Broccoli & Orzo Skillet proves that healthy dinners don’t have to be complicated. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal that satisfies the whole family.
💡 Try it this week and let me know how it turns out — leave a comment and rating below!
📌 Don’t forget to Pin this recipe so you can come back to it anytime.
