Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s easy, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is about to become your new favorite. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, which means you can go from pantry to table without breaking a sweat. Perfect for busy evenings, this dish delivers all the cozy vibes without the mountain of dishes afterward.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

  • One-Pan Magic: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
  • Rich and Comforting: The creamy sauce clings to every bite of orzo, making each forkful irresistible.
  • Balanced Meal: Protein from chicken sausage, carbs from orzo, and a healthy dose of veggies all in one skillet.
  • Versatile: Easily swap ingredients to match what you have on hand.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for the week.

Recipe Overview

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced into coins
  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup spinach (or kale), chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Kitchen Equipment Required

  • Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
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How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

  1. Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Toast the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast it, deepening the flavor.
  4. Add Liquids: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Simmer and Stir: Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Add Greens and Cheese: Once the orzo is tender and creamy, stir in chopped spinach, Parmesan, and the cooked sausage. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  7. Serve Hot: Spoon into bowls and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Creamy Orzo

  • Toast the Orzo: This extra step adds a nutty depth to the dish.
  • Don’t Overcook: Orzo cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent mushiness.
  • Stir Often: Creamy pasta dishes need occasional stirring to avoid sticking.
  • Use Good Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a richer taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the Lid: Without a lid, your liquid will evaporate too quickly.
  • Too Much Heat: High heat can scorch the cream and cause separation.
  • Adding Spinach Too Early: Add greens at the end to keep their color and freshness.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein Swap: Try turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or even shrimp.
  • Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream, but add a tablespoon of cream cheese for richness.
  • Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
  • Cheese Twist: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite.

How to Store and Meal Prep

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream before reheating to loosen the sauce.
  • Meal Prep Tip: Divide into single-serve containers for grab-and-go lunches.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Garnish with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color.
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty bread.

Related Post: Zucchini Grilled Cheese 

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken sausage?
Yes, just slice and brown it for extra flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have orzo?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous can work, but adjust cooking times.

Q: Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese, or try a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is the kind of dish that turns a busy weekday evening into a cozy, satisfying dinner. With minimal prep, just one pan, and endless variations, it’s a recipe worth bookmarking for those nights when you need something both easy and delicious. Make it once, and you’ll see why it’s a regular in my kitchen rotation.