Description
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and optional greens or sun-dried tomatoes, it's a comforting dinner packed with protein and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
For the Orzo Skillet:
- 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)
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)
Instructions
- 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.
- 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 to bring out its nutty flavor.
- Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid but remains tender.
- Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (or feta for a Mediterranean twist) until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir to combine evenly. If using, fold in spinach or kale and sun-dried tomatoes at this stage to warm through.
- Finish & Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, extra grated cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Serve the dish warm and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream or cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Don’t overcook the orzo – it should be tender but not mushy.
- Toasting the orzo enhances its nutty flavor and adds depth to the dish.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt but stir it in off the heat to avoid curdling.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite sausage varieties and add-ins like kale or sun-dried tomatoes for different flavor profiles.
