Use chicken sausage and broccoli together for quick, nutritious meals that fit any schedule. Try a stir-fry with a garlic-soy sauce, a sheet pan baked with sweet potatoes, or toss both into whole wheat pasta with garlic and Parmesan. These dishes are easy to make, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken sausage and broccoli recipes are quick, balanced, and easy to adapt for meal prep or family meals.
- You can cook them in a skillet, on a sheet pan, or as part of a pasta or orzo dish, each method offers a different flavor and texture.
- Mix in extra veggies, grains, or spices to keep things fresh and suit your dietary needs.
Chicken Sausage & Broccoli Stir-Fry
There’s something honest about tossing together what’s left in the fridge and calling it dinner. That’s how this chicken sausage and broccoli stir-fry started for me one Tuesday night after class. The sausage was roasted garlic, the broccoli was a little past its prime, and the carrots were probably meant for lunchboxes. Still, it worked. It always works.Ingredients & Sauce:
- Chicken sausage (roasted garlic works well), sliced into coins
- Broccoli florets, trimmed to bite-size
- Carrots, julienned or sliced thin (optional)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- Juice of 1 lemon
Steps:
- Sauce: Whisk soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and garlic in a bowl.
- Sear: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add sausage in a single layer. Let it brown for 2 minutes before stirring.
- Broccoli: Add broccoli and a splash of water (2 tbsp). Cover, let steam for 2–4 minutes.
- Veggies: Toss in carrots. Sauté uncovered for 1 minute.
- Combine: Pour in the sauce. Stir and simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes. Finish with lemon juice.
- Serve: Over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if you have them.
Variations:
- Add bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini if you want color and crunch.
- For heat, try sriracha or red pepper flakes.[1]
- Swap in brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a different base.
It’s a meal that tastes like effort but only takes twenty minutes, plus, the leftovers hold up. I’ve eaten it cold, straight from a takeout container, hunched over my laptop. Hot is better, but not by much.
Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage, Broccoli & Sweet Potato
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 4 chicken sausage links, sliced thick
- 1 large head broccoli, chopped into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
- Optional: ½ red onion (sliced), ½ cup shredded cheese, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder
How-To:
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment.[2]
- Roast Potatoes: Toss sweet potatoes with oil, salt, pepper. Spread in a single layer. Roast 15 minutes.
- Add Broccoli & Sausage: Toss broccoli, sausage, and onion with a little more oil and any seasonings. Add to the pan, stir gently.
- Finish: Roast another 15–20 minutes. If you want cheese, sprinkle it on top in the last 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Eat as is, or pile over rice or quinoa.
Tips:
- Switch in russet potatoes or butternut squash.
- Try Aidells or Amylu apple chicken sausage for a sweet twist (the apple pairs well with sweet potato and broccoli).
- Leftovers? Stuff them into a pita with a swipe of Greek yogurt.
Sheet pan meals are forgiving. They don’t mind substitutions or a handful of herbs from the back of the fridge. Rosemary and parsley both fit here.
Chicken Sausage & Broccoli Pasta (Penne, Rigatoni, o Fusilli)
There is a certain comfort in pasta, especially when it’s tossed with garlicky sausage and just-tender broccoli. It’s the sort of meal that gets you through finals, breakups, or a string of rainy days. I’ve made variations of this dish in every apartment I’ve lived in.Ingredients:
- 12 oz whole wheat penne or rigatoni
- 4 chicken sausage links, sliced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Salt, pepper, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Boil pasta in salted water. In the last 3 minutes, add broccoli. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Sausage & Aromatics: While pasta cooks, heat oil and butter in a skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add sausage, cook until browned.
- Combine: Add drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Mix in Parmesan and a splash of pasta water. Toss till creamy.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, red pepper flakes. Serve with more cheese.
Customization:
- Swap in gluten-free pasta or chickpea pasta (Jovial and Banza are both solid).
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or chopped spinach.
- For extra richness, try a little cream or a handful of mozzarella.
Pasta with chicken sausage and broccoli is reliable. It fills you up, leaves you with leftovers, and tastes just as good the next day, microwaved in a dorm kitchen or office break room.
Chicken Sausage, Broccoli & Orzo Skillet
This orzo skillet is the kind of “one pan” meal that college kids and busy parents swear by. Orzo cooks fast, holds onto sauce, and feels a little fancier than rice. When you add chicken sausage and broccoli, you have a meal that’s both filling and light.Ingredients:
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 chicken sausage links, sliced
- 1 head broccoli, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup Parmesan
- Salt & pepper
How-To:
- Brown Sausage: Heat oil in a deep skillet. Brown sausage slices 2–3 minutes.
- Broccoli: Add broccoli, cook until bright green.
- Orzo & Garlic: Stir in orzo and garlic, toast for 1 minute.
- Simmer: Add broth, cover, simmer 8–10 minutes until orzo is tender.
- Finish: Stir in Parmesan, season to taste.
Tips:
- Add bell peppers or snap peas for more color and crunch.
- Finish with lemon zest or a squeeze of juice to brighten it up.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days.
Orzo’s small shape makes it perfect for meal prep. It doesn’t clump as much as rice, and the broccoli keeps its color. I like this one as a “desk lunch”, satisfying but not heavy.
Customizing Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Meals
Credit: Angela Washington
Chicken sausage and broccoli are a blank canvas, ready for your tweaks.
Vegetable Variations:
- Try cauliflower, carrots, snap peas, or brussels sprouts.
- Red onion or sweet onion add depth.
- Spinach or kale wilt down nicely at the end.
Spices & Seasonings:
- Italian seasoning, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Lemon juice or zest for a fresh finish.
- Garlic powder or a clove or two of roasted garlic.
Cheese Options:
- Parmesan is classic, but mozzarella, feta, or even cheddar (especially in bakes) are welcome.
- Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.
Meal Prep & Storage:
- Store leftovers in airtight containers. They keep 3–4 days in the fridge.
- Pasta and orzo dishes reheat well in the microwave.
- Sheet pan meals can be packed into grain bowls or wraps.
Tips for Success:
- Cut broccoli and other veggies to similar sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t overcook broccoli; it’s best bright green and just tender.
- Brown the sausage for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken sausage and broccoli offer a quick answer to “what’s for dinner.” These meals are balanced, providing protein, fiber, and veggies, and you can whip them up in no time. Try a stir-fry for fast flavor, or go for a sheet pan dish for easy cleanup. Change up the grain, swap the veggies, or experiment with different sausage flavors like apple or Italian. Toss in fresh herbs like parsley for extra punch. Grab a skillet and dinner’s ready in thirty minutes or less.
FAQ
What are some easy ways to make chicken sausage broccoli pasta for a quick weeknight dinner?
Chicken sausage broccoli pasta is a go-to for busy weeknights. Just boil the pasta, sauté sliced chicken sausage and broccoli with olive oil and garlic, then toss everything together. Want more flavor? Add pepper flakes or parmesan. This is one of those easy chicken sausage broccoli meals that comes together fast but still feels homemade. It’s a family-friendly meal that hits the spot without much fuss.
How do I make a healthy chicken sausage and broccoli skillet that’s still filling?
A chicken sausage and broccoli skillet is a great option for healthy chicken sausage recipes. Brown the sausage in a pan, toss in broccoli and some onions or peppers, and cook until tender. Add quinoa or whole wheat pasta if you want a more filling dish. It’s high in protein and fiber, low in fat, and works as a balanced, nutritious meal without feeling like a sacrifice.
What’s the best way to prepare chicken sausage broccoli meal ideas for the week?
If you’re into chicken sausage broccoli meal prep, go with sheet pan chicken sausage broccoli or roasted chicken sausage broccoli. Just chop everything, toss it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then roast it all together. You can use the leftovers in rice bowls, pasta, or wraps. It reheats well and makes lunch or dinner a breeze all week. Batch cook once, enjoy it all week.
Can I make a chicken sausage broccoli casserole that’s still good for you?
Yes, chicken sausage broccoli casserole doesn’t have to be heavy. Skip the creamy sauce or go light with it. Try a chicken sausage broccoli rice bake or a chicken sausage broccoli cheese bake with just enough cheese for flavor. Add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition. It’s a healthy comfort food option, especially when you use simple, fresh ingredients.
What are some good pasta options for chicken sausage and broccoli dinners?
You’ve got plenty of good pasta picks. Chicken sausage broccoli rigatoni and chicken sausage broccoli penne hold sauce well. If you want something lighter, try chicken sausage broccoli whole wheat pasta. For a twist, chicken sausage broccoli alfredo or sun-dried tomato and parmesan versions make it feel special. These all make for a satisfying, kid-friendly, family meal.
How can I make a chicken sausage broccoli mushroom bake that doesn’t dry out?
To keep a chicken sausage broccoli mushroom bake from drying out, use a bit of broth or a light cream sauce, and cover it with foil for most of the bake time. The mushrooms release moisture, which helps, but adding garlic and olive oil keeps things flavorful. This makes for a cozy, balanced main dish that works well for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
What’s a good way to serve chicken sausage broccoli red onion for a quick lunch?
Try roasting chicken sausage broccoli red onion on a sheet pan with a little olive oil and rosemary. It cooks fast and tastes even better the next day. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a filling chicken sausage broccoli lunch recipe that reheats well and doesn’t get soggy. It’s a solid make-ahead option if you’re looking for something fast and satisfying.
Is chicken sausage broccoli green apple a real thing, and does it work?
Yes, chicken sausage broccoli green apple can work if you’re going for contrast, sweet and savory. Roast thin apple slices with sausage and broccoli, then toss everything with a splash of balsamic. It’s a surprisingly tasty chicken sausage broccoli side dish or light lunch, especially if you like bold, fresh flavor pairings that feel a little different from the usual.
Can I freeze chicken sausage broccoli leftovers without losing flavor?
Absolutely. Chicken sausage broccoli leftovers freeze well, especially dishes like chicken sausage broccoli potatoes bake or chicken sausage broccoli casserole bake. Let them cool, portion into airtight containers, and label them. When you reheat, add a splash of broth or a dab of butter to freshen things up. It’s a smart move for easy meal prep and quick dinners later on.
References
- https://thebalancednutritionist.com/chicken-sausage-broccoli-stir-fry/
- https://gatherednutrition.com/chicken-sausage-sweet-potato-broccoli-sheet-pan-meal/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-with-vegetables-2/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-recipe-ideas/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-ground/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.