Orecchiette with chicken sausage and broccoli

Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli is a wholesome dish featuring whole-wheat pasta, savoury sausage, and vibrant broccoli, all brought together with garlic and Parmesan. It's a quick and flavourful option for busy weeknights or family meals.

20 Nov 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

12 oz whole-wheat pasta
14 oz vienna sausage
6.50 cups broccoli
2 tbsp olive oil
5 garlic cloves
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper

Orecchiette with chicken sausage and broccoli

If you're looking for a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, try making Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli. This recipe combines whole-wheat pasta, savory Vienna sausages, and fresh broccoli, all brought together with a touch of garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. It's a balanced dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the broccoli florets into small pieces.
- Mince the garlic cloves.

2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water. Set aside.

3. Cook the Broccoli:
- While the pasta is cooking, bring another pot of water to a boil.
- Add the chopped broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender but still vibrant green.
- Drain the broccoli and set aside.

4. Sauté the Sausage and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

5. Combine and Season:
- Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the sausage and garlic, stirring to combine.
- Add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the skillet, mixing everything together.
- If the mixture seems dry, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

6. Finish and Serve:
- Season the pasta mixture with a dash of salt and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and gently toss to combine.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates or a large serving bowl.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve the Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Enjoy your satisfying and nutritious Orecchiette with Chicken Sausage and Broccoli. This dish offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, and the best part is that it’s both wholesome and easy to prepare. Share this meal with your loved ones and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade cooking.

Orecchiette with chicken sausage and broccoli FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the whole-wheat pasta?

Cook the whole-wheat orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 10-12 minutes until al dente.

How do I know when the broccoli is done cooking?

The broccoli should be cooked for 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Be sure not to overcook to retain its color and texture.

What can I substitute for the Vienna sausage?

You can substitute the Vienna sausage with other cooked sausages, such as Italian chicken sausage or turkey sausage, for a similar flavor profile.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to help moistening.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini if you prefer. Adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta used.

Cooking Tips:

- For al dente pasta, be sure to follow the cooking time on the package and taste-test a minute before the end time.

- Slice the Vienna sausages thinly to ensure they heat evenly and develop a nice color.

- Steam the broccoli just until it’s tender-crisp to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.

- Don't skimp on the garlic— it adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

- For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes along with the salt and black pepper.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor, and consider adding an extra handful if you love cheese.

Nutrition Facts

5 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 4.95g
Sugar 1.84g
Fat 24g

Orecchiette with chicken sausage and broccoli