Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks. The one-pan method means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal. The creamy sauce is rich without being heavy, complementing the savory chicken sausage and perfectly cooked orzo. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Chicken sausage (sliced)
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Orzo pasta
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Onion (diced)
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Garlic (minced)
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Chicken broth
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Heavy cream or half-and-half
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Olive oil or butter
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Parmesan cheese (grated)
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Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
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Salt and pepper
Directions
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Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.
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Add orzo pasta to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook orzo until tender and liquid is mostly absorbed, about 8-10 minutes.
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Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
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Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and combine everything thoroughly. Heat through.
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Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Preparation time: 10 minutes
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Cooking time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Swap chicken sausage for spicy Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a different flavor.
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Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
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Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
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Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
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Substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or small shells.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your preference.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. Look for gluten-free orzo alternatives if needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or omit the cheese.
How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?
Stir the orzo frequently while cooking and make sure to add enough broth to allow it to cook evenly without sticking.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can cook the sausage and orzo ahead of time, but it’s best to combine and add cream just before serving for optimal texture.
What can I serve with creamy chicken sausage orzo?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely to balance the richness of the dish.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous or small shells work well as substitutes.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to increase the heat.
What herbs work best with this dish?
Parsley, thyme, basil, or oregano all complement the flavors nicely.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a simple yet satisfying one-pan meal that combines ease and flavor effortlessly. With its rich sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for quick dinners. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor. Tender chicken sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo come together for a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying dinner option that the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken sausage (sliced)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting it toast slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until creamy and heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Add spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrition.
- Use gluten-free orzo if needed to make the recipe gluten-free.
