Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal

Discover the comforting flavors and wholesome goodness of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo, a delightful dish that brings family and friends together around the table. This one-pan meal is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or even a casual gathering with loved ones. Succulent chicken sausage pairs delightfully with creamy orzo pasta, vibrant greens, and sun-dried tomatoes, creating a satisfying dish that will please even the pickiest eaters.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and the remarkable melding of textures and flavors. With just one pan to clean up, you can savor each bite without the hassle of doing dishes afterward. The warmth of the spices, combined with the freshness of the ingredients, makes it a favorite for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an easy meal prep for the week, readers will find that this recipe not only nourishes but also brings a touch of joy into everyday cooking.

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, and let’s get cooking!

Directions

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 you’re using 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 and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or spinach sausage. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage altogether and add more vegetables.
• Optional Variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. Switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile; goat cheese works wonderfully!
• Storage or Reheating Tips: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to loosen up the orzo.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy

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