Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

My kitchen adventures usually end in culinary chaos, but today, I’m sharing a recipe that even *I* can’t mess up: Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet. It’s a one-pan wonder, a symphony of flavors, and a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you’d rather nap than cook.

This recipe is my go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. Think tender chicken, bursting broccoli florets, perfectly cooked orzo pasta, all swimming in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s simple, delicious, and surprisingly elegant.

Here are some reasons why you’ll love this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet:

It’s ridiculously easy to make, even for beginner cooks.

The flavor is amazing – a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet.

It looks incredibly impressive, perfect for dinner parties or a special weeknight treat.

It’s incredibly versatile – easily adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand.

Ingredients for Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

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

Chicken Sausage Choose Italian-style chicken sausage for a classic flavor. Remove the casings before cooking for easier blending.

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking and even texture.

Broccoli Florets Fresh broccoli is best but frozen works well too – just ensure it’s completely thawed before adding it to the skillet.

Orzo Pasta This small, rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Chicken Broth Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness of the dish.

Olive Oil Use extra virgin olive oil for its superior flavor and healthy fats.

Garlic Fresh garlic adds a pungent kick; minced garlic is best for ease of use.

Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice is a must for brightness and acidity. A squeeze of lemon zest adds extra zing.

Onion A small yellow onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Salt and Pepper To taste, of course!

Dried Oregano A pinch enhances the savory notes.

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: Prep the Ingredients

Chop the onion and garlic. Cut the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Wash and cut the broccoli into florets.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken sausage and chicken breast to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and the sausage is heated through, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli and Orzo

Stir in the broccoli florets and orzo pasta. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 5: Simmer in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the orzo is tender and the broccoli is bright green, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese (optional) adds a lovely finishing touch.

Tips and Variations for Your Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

This recipe is remarkably versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day. Simply reheat in the microwave or skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?

A: Yes, absolutely. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before adding it to the skillet to ensure even cooking.

Q: What kind of chicken sausage is best?

A: Italian-style chicken sausage is a great choice for its classic flavor, but you can use any variety you like.

Q: Can I substitute the orzo?

A: You can substitute the orzo with other small pasta shapes like couscous or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Q: How can I make it spicier?

A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead and assemble the skillet just before cooking. The leftovers reheat beautifully. This Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is a total weeknight winner, guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the chicken sausage until nicely browned. Then, cook the orzo according to package directions. While the orzo cooks, sauté the broccoli and create the sauce. Finally, combine everything in the skillet for a delicious, one-pan meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, avoiding overcooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken sausage; work in batches for even browning.

• Make sure your orzo is cooked al dente to maintain its texture when combined with other ingredients.

• Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process; salt and pepper are your friends.

My first attempt at this chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet was a bit of a disaster—way too much broccoli! But lesson learned: less is more, and the second time was perfect.

Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet

: A Recipe for Delicious Chaos (and Easy Cleanup!)

This Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, a culinary masterpiece (or at least, that’s what I tell myself). It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without the hours of painstaking prep work. Imagine this: juicy chicken sausage, perfectly cooked orzo, vibrant broccoli florets, all mingling together in a delightful, savory dance in your skillet. The best part? Minimal cleanup!

The Star Players

: Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is less about precise measurements and more about creating a delicious balance of flavors. Feel free to adjust the quantities to your liking.

One pound of chicken sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces. Remember, we’re aiming for deliciousness, not strict adherence to rules.

One cup of orzo pasta. This little pasta is so versatile, absorbing flavors like a sponge at a cocktail party.

Two cups of broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Because who wants to bite into a giant broccoli floret?

One tablespoon of olive oil. A little goes a long way, my friend.

Half a medium onion, finely chopped. This is where the magic begins.

Two cloves of garlic, minced. Ah, the sweet scent of garlic—a culinary hug.

Half a cup of chicken broth. Because sometimes, you just need a little extra liquid love.

One tablespoon of dried oregano. A sprinkle of oregano elevates this dish to new heights.

Salt and pepper to taste. Let’s be honest, you can never have enough salt and pepper.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Culinary Nirvana (or at Least, a Delicious Dinner)

This recipe is designed for the culinary challenged and the time-strapped. Even if your cooking skills are reminiscent of a burnt offering, you can’t mess this up.

First, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until nicely browned, about five to seven minutes, flipping halfway through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.

Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened, about three to five minutes. Add the garlic and oregano and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Inhale deeply; you deserve this.

Add the broccoli florets and cook for three to five minutes, until slightly tender-crisp. Remember, we don’t want mushy broccoli. We want broccoli with a little bite.

Stir in the orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about ten minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is absorbed. This is the moment where the magic happens.

Finally, add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately. And pat yourself on the back. You deserve it.

Beyond the Basics

: Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet Variations

This Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment!

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Because life’s too short for bland food.

Swap out the chicken sausage for beef or turkey sausage. Variety is the spice of life.

Use different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Let your tastebuds be your guide.

Add a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami flavor. Because who doesn’t love sun-dried tomatoes?

The Final Curtain Call

: Serving Suggestions

Serve this Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet as a complete meal. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. You can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

This Chicken Chicken Sausage Broccoli and Orzo Skillet recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, combined with a little love and care, can create a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!

Conclusion for Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet

This Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is a simple, delicious, and incredibly versatile one-pan meal. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to your liking! Experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and seasonings to make it your own. So ditch the takeout menu, embrace your inner chef, and enjoy this amazing dish. You won’t regret it.

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FAQs

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

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to swap the broccoli for other veggies you love. Think vibrant bell peppers, tender asparagus, or even some sautéed mushrooms. Get creative and use what’s fresh and in season. Remember to adjust cooking times as needed, depending on the vegetable you choose. Some veggies, like asparagus, cook much faster than broccoli. This Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is your canvas; paint it with your favorite colors!

How can I make this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet ahead of time?

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can prep most of it the day before. Cook the chicken sausage and orzo separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Chop your broccoli and store it separately as well. When you’re ready to eat, simply sauté the broccoli, then combine everything in a skillet and heat through. You can even add a splash of chicken broth to keep things moist. This way, you’ll have a delicious, healthy dinner ready in minutes, even on a busy weeknight.

Is this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet recipe gluten-free?

To ensure your Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet is gluten-free, you’ll need to carefully check the labels of all your ingredients. Most chicken sausages are gluten-free, but always double-check. Similarly, some orzo brands might contain gluten. Look for certified gluten-free options to be completely safe. If you’re unsure, always opt for a gluten-free alternative. It’s easy to find gluten free orzo in most supermarkets.

What can I substitute for chicken sausage in this Chicken chicken sausage broccoli and orzo skillet recipe?

If you don’t have chicken sausage, or if you prefer a different protein, you have plenty of choices! Grilled chicken breast, cubed beef, or even crumbled turkey sausage would all work wonderfully. Just remember to cook the protein thoroughly before adding it to the skillet with the orzo and broccoli. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat used. Remember to season your chosen protein appropriately to match the flavors of the dish.