Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that’s bound to become a family favorite! With the perfect combination of tender chicken sausage, creamy orzo, and vibrant greens, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. What’s more, it comes together quickly in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze! Serve it on a busy weeknight or impress guests at your next gathering—no one will be able to resist seconds!
You’ll love how each bite bursts with elements of comfort and nourishment. The creamy texture, rich with the essence of chicken broth and heavy cream (or Greek yogurt, if you prefer), pairs beautifully with the savory notes from the sausage and the brightness of the sun-dried tomatoes. Topped with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon zest, this dish is sure to lift spirits and please palates alike.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, depending on your sausage flavor)
- 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated cheese
- Lemon zest (for brightness)
Gather your ingredients for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Directions
Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics & Orzo: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta for a Mediterranean twist). Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. If adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, mix them in at this step.
Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage or a vegetarian alternative. Use whole wheat or gluten-free orzo if desired.
- Optional Variations: For a more robust flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers during the sautéing phase. To spice it up, increase the red pepper flakes.
- Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
