Name: Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced into coins; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp lemon zest or 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It brings together juicy chicken sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy orzo in a dish that’s both hearty and light. With just one skillet and simple ingredients, I get a comforting dinner on the table in under 30 minutes—and with hardly any cleanup.

Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, customizable, and full of flavor without a lot of fuss. The orzo cooks right in the pan with the other ingredients, soaking up all the savory juices. Chicken sausage adds protein and spice, broccoli keeps things fresh and green, and the result is creamy, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent. It’s my kind of balanced, low-effort dinner.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken sausage (fully cooked, sliced into coins)
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Yellow onion, diced
Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Orzo pasta
Chicken broth
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon zest or juice (optional for brightness)

directions

I heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced chicken sausage. I cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes, and transfer it to a plate.
In the same skillet, I add more oil if needed and sauté the onion until soft, about 3 minutes. I stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
I add the dry orzo and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
I pour in the chicken broth, add the broccoli florets, and season with salt and pepper. I bring it to a simmer.
I reduce the heat, cover, and let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
I return the sausage to the skillet, stir everything together, and cook for 2–3 more minutes until heated through.
I finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and red pepper flakes, and add a bit of lemon zest or juice for brightness if I’m feeling fancy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and comes together in about 25–30 minutes total. It’s ideal for a quick dinner or easy meal prep for the week.

Variations

Sometimes I switch out the broccoli for spinach, kale, or zucchini. I’ve also made it with turkey sausage or veggie sausage for a different twist. When I want it extra creamy, I stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end. And if I’m craving more flavor, I add sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of chopped basil.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It also microwaves well in short bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked sausage?

Yes, I’ve used raw chicken sausage links before. I just remove the casing, crumble and cook it fully in the skillet before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, though the texture of the orzo may soften a bit. I let it cool completely before freezing, then thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

Can I use a different pasta?

I’ve swapped the orzo for small pasta shapes like ditalini or pearl couscous, but I adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

How do I keep the broccoli from getting mushy?

I add fresh broccoli closer to the end or steam it separately if I want it extra crisp. If I’m using frozen, I add it straight from the freezer and avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but I’ve used gluten-free orzo or rice as a substitute with great results. I just keep an eye on the liquid ratio.

Conclusion

Chicken Sausage, Broccoli, and Orzo Skillet is everything I want in a weeknight meal—simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With one pan and minimal prep, it delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Whether I’m meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this is one of those go-to recipes I rely on again and again.