Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan Meal
This flavorful one-pan dish combines savory chicken sausage, tender orzo, and fresh greens in a creamy sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main 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)
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped
- as needed Extra grated cheese
- zest of 1 lemon Lemon zest (for brightness)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook sausage until browned, then set aside.
- Sauté onion, add garlic, then toast orzo in the pan.
- Pour in broth, add seasonings, and simmer until orzo absorbs liquid.
- Stir in cream, cheese, cooked sausage, greens, and sun-dried tomatoes; cook until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, and lemon zest; serve warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream.