Looking for a quick, creamy, and satisfying dinner? I find this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet to be a one-pan wonder that’s packed with protein, comforting flavors, and a rich, velvety sauce. With tender orzo, flavorful chicken sausage, and a cheesy, creamy texture, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. If I love orzo with sausage recipes, this one becomes a new favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe

One-Pan Meal – I enjoy minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Creamy & Comforting – The perfect mix of chicken sausage with orzo and a rich sauce.
Quick & Easy – A 30-minute meal, perfect for my busy nights.
Protein-Packed – Chicken sausage makes it hearty and satisfying.
Customizable – I can use my favorite vegetables and sausage flavors.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (cheddar, feta, or my 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 my sausage flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)

For Garnishing:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra grated cheese
Lemon zest (for brightness)

Directions

Sauté the Chicken Sausage: I heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned. I remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics & Orzo: In the same pan, I add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. I stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, I add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Simmer the Orzo: I pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. I add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. I bring it to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
Make it Creamy: I lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta for a Mediterranean twist). I mix until smooth. I add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. If I'm adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, I mix them in at this step.
Finish & Serve: I remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. I serve it warm!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: I sometimes swap cheddar for feta or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-Ins: I like adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
Spice Level: I adjust the red pepper flakes to make it as spicy as I like.
Herbs: I experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for a new twist.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: I reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, I microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

What type of chicken sausage works best for this recipe?

I prefer using pre-cooked chicken sausages with flavors like cheddar, feta, or Italian herbs. They add a nice depth of flavor to the dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells, but I adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! I use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. I reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

I often pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful, one-pan meal that combines rich flavors with the convenience of a quick preparation. It's a versatile dish that I can customize to my taste, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation.

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

A creamy, comforting, and protein-packed one-pan meal made with chicken sausage, orzo pasta, and a rich cheese sauce—perfect for busy weeknights.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Pour in chicken broth, add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo absorbs most liquid.
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and cheese. Mix until smooth. Return sausage to skillet and combine. Add optional ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using.
Remove from heat and garnish with parsley, extra cheese, and lemon zest. Serve warm.