Broccolini, Chicken Sausage & Orzo Skillet
This one-skillet dish combines tender broccolini, savory chicken sausage, and creamy orzo for a delicious and comforting weeknight meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces fully cooked hot Italian chicken sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds Saves time — no need to brown raw meat.
- 2 bunches broccolini (about 1 pound), coarsely chopped Can substitute with broccoli florets, spinach, asparagus, or peas.
- to taste Kosher salt
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry orzo pasta Toasting the orzo enhances flavor.
- 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth Helps control saltiness, especially with Parmesan.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts creamier than pre-shredded.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook 3–4 minutes, until browned on both sides.
- Stir in chopped broccolini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté about 5 minutes, until bright green and nearly tender.
- Add minced garlic and dry orzo; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook 10 minutes or until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- If excess liquid remains, uncover and simmer briefly until absorbed.
- Stir in Parmesan, taste, and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm with extra cheese.
Notes
For serving suggestions, add lemon zest, serve with a simple arugula salad, or sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat.