Description
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal is a delightful dish that combines savory chicken sausage and tender orzo pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this meal comes together in just 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort food without the hassle. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheese varieties for a unique twist every time. With its mouthwatering flavors and easy preparation, Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is sure to become a family favorite.
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
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion until softened; add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in orzo and toast for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and seasonings; bring to a simmer. Cook until orzo absorbs most of the liquid (8–10 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in cream and cheese until smooth. Return sausage to skillet; mix in greens and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon zest before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg