Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner? This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is here to save the day! It’s the ultimate one-pot meal, combining tender orzo, flavorful chicken sausage, and a creamy sauce that will please the entire family.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in under 30 minutes and is packed with protein, veggies, and wholesome flavors. Whether you’re searching for chicken sausage ideas or a creamy, comforting pasta dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for making Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet:
- Chicken Sausage (4 links, sliced – about 350g)
- Orzo Pasta (1 cup – about 200g)
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
- Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Bell Pepper (1 large, diced)
- Chicken Broth (3 cups – 720ml)
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (½ cup – 120ml)
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, freshly grated)
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups – about 60g)
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these steps to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet:
Cook the Chicken Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.Add the Orzo and Broth:
Stir in the orzo pasta, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed.Add the Cream and Cheese:
Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.Add the Chicken Sausage and Spinach:
Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for the Creamiest Orzo
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: This melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo to ensure it’s cooked al dente. Overcooking can make it mushy.
- Add Cream Gradually: Pour the cream in slowly and stir well to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the chicken sausage adds extra flavor, so don’t skip this step.
- Overcooking the Orzo: Keep the heat low and stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking or becoming too soft.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Plating: Serve in a shallow bowl to highlight the creamy texture of the orzo.
- Garnishing: Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Side Dish: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month if needed.
Recipe Variations and Additions
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage or extra vegetables in place of chicken sausage.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute Parmesan with cheddar or feta for a unique twist.
Pairing Ideas
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with this creamy dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread for a more indulgent meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or green beans make a great side dish.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream alternatives and omit the cheese, though the sauce may be less creamy.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week.
Enjoy Your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a comforting and delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more easy and tasty meal ideas!
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet : Comfort Food
Looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying dinner? This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is here to save the day
- To make this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large skillet or sauté pan with a lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for making Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet:
- Chicken Sausage (4 links, sliced – about 350g)
- Orzo Pasta (1 cup – about 200g)
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
- Onion (1 medium, diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Bell Pepper (1 large, diced)
- Chicken Broth (3 cups – 720ml)
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (½ cup – 120ml)
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, freshly grated)
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups – about 60g)
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Follow these steps to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet:
- Cook the Chicken Sausage:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Orzo and Broth:
- Stir in the orzo pasta, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add the Cream and Cheese:
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.
- Add the Chicken Sausage and Spinach:
- Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: This melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on the orzo to ensure it’s cooked al dente. Overcooking can make it mushy.
Add Cream Gradually: Pour the cream in slowly and stir well to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.