How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo in One Pan

Are you ready to whip up a delicious, creamy dish that will have your family asking for seconds? I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo, a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for quick family dinners. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it one of my favorite easy pasta recipes for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• One-pan cleanup means less time washing dishes!
• Versatile ingredients allow for customization based on what you have on hand.
• Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies without being overly heavy.
• Great for meal prep, making it one of the best Healthy Meal Prep Dinners For The Week.

Ingredients

To make this creamy delight, you’ll need the following 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)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy chicken sausage orzo:

1. Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your creamy chicken sausage orzo turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to swap out the chicken sausage for turkey or a plant-based option for a healthier twist.
• If you prefer a bit more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which still gives that creamy texture.
• Experiment with different greens like kale or arugula for added nutrition.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Creamy Cucumber Salad or Cucumber Vinegar Salad for a refreshing contrast.

How to Serve

This creamy chicken sausage orzo is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner experience by serving it with:

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• A glass of white wine for a delightful pairing.
• For a fun twist, serve it in a hollowed-out bell pepper!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re looking for Recipes For Two Healthy or planning for the week, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up if needed.
• This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, you can enjoy a comforting, creamy meal any night of the week. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a cozy Sunday, this Chicken Sausage Orzo Pasta is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!