why make this recipe
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful one-pan dish that offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packs a punch with flavor and nutrition. The combination of creamy textures from heavy cream and cheese, along with the hearty chicken sausage and healthy greens, makes it a complete meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a simple cleanup with just one pan to wash?
how to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
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)
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 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: Lower the heat and stir in 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!
how to serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Serve this dish warm straight from the skillet for a cozy meal. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a simple side salad for extra crunch. A glass of white wine also complements this dish nicely.
how to store Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm. If the dish seems dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water during reheating.
tips to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
- Use different types of chicken sausage to vary the flavor.
- For added heat, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a more colorful dish.
- Stir in some nutritional yeast for added creaminess and a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
variation
If you want a lighter dish, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt. You can also switch orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes, like farfalle or ditalini, but cooking times may vary slightly.
2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.
3. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container. However, cream-based dishes may change texture when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Ingredients
Method
- 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.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- 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.
- Lower the heat and stir in 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.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm!
Notes
Name: Yumi HwagByline: Founder & Recipe Developer, YumimealsBio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]