Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli
Looking for a quick and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor? Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is the perfect solution! This dish combines tender orzo pasta, hearty chicken sausage, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. It’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to your dinner table. Plus, it’s easy enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough for when you’re entertaining. Let’s dive into why this dish has become a go-to for many home cooks.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a one-pan wonder that offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The creamy orzo melds beautifully with the savory chicken sausage, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch. What’s more, it’s a wholesome dish that packs in protein, veggies, and carbs, making it a balanced meal for everyone at the table. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, whether you prefer more spice, additional vegetables, or a hint of cheese on top.
Gather These Ingredients
To make this delicious Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli, gather 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 you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment ready:
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking everything in one place.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure each ingredient.
- Knife and chopping board: For prepping your vegetables and sausage.
Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage rounds and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Orzo and Seasonings
Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomato Sauce
Pour the chicken broth and tomato sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Incorporate the Vegetables
Add the broccoli florets and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once cooked, return the sautéed chicken sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
You can easily adapt Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli for different seasons and holidays. Consider these ideas:
- For a fall twist, add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the sauce.
- In summer, toss in fresh tomatoes and basil for a lighter, fresher flavor.
- During winter holidays, add a pinch of nutmeg and serve it as a comforting dish for family gatherings.
- For a festive touch, use spinach instead of broccoli and add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Author’s Commentary
As a food lover, I constantly seek recipes that are not only delicious but also practical for everyday cooking. Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli ticks all the boxes! I love how the flavors meld together, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes too. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in my home, and I hope it finds its way into yours as well!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To store any leftovers, let the Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to do so in a freezer-safe container, where it will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy texture.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my orzo is overcooked?
If you find your orzo has turned mushy, it’s best to serve it immediately. In the future, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time and taste for doneness to avoid overcooking.
Can I use another type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, beef sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a kick of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions or using a spicy sausage variety. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce on top!
What can I serve on the side?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but a simple green salad or some crusty bread would complement it beautifully. A light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty orzo.
Desserts to Finish
To round off your meal with a sweet note, consider these delightful dessert options:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic favorite!
- Creamy Lemon Bars – Bright and zesty for a refreshing finish.
- Vegan Chocolate Cake – Rich and indulgent without any guilt.
- Banana Bread – Perfect for using up overripe bananas.
Final Bite
Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. With its savory flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy the cooking journey—your taste buds will thank you!
Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage rounds and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour the chicken broth and tomato sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the broccoli florets and chopped red bell pepper to the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is al dente and the broccoli is tender.
- Once cooked, return the sautéed chicken sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of chicken broth.
