Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
A delightful one-pan meal featuring savory chicken sausage and creamy orzo pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken sausage: Heat 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 the heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta). 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!
Notes
To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add chicken broth or water when reheating to maintain consistency.