Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together tender orzo pasta, juicy chicken sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce. This hearty yet comforting dish is packed with flavors that will leave everyone at the dinner table craving more. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and can even impress your guests at a weekend gathering. The combination of savory sausage, smooth cream, and perfectly cooked orzo creates a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

This skillet recipe is a breeze to put together, thanks to the simplicity of using just one pan, making cleanup a snap. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this dish is simple enough for beginners yet flavorful enough for seasoned home cooks. Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The creamy sauce perfectly coats the orzo pasta, creating a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken sausage. Each bite is packed with deliciously balanced flavors.
• One-Pan Meal: This dish requires minimal cleanup because everything is cooked in a single skillet. It’s a time-saving and convenient option for busy nights when you need a quick, delicious meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: Packed with protein from the chicken sausage and creamy goodness from the sauce, this dish is both filling and satisfying, making it perfect for dinner.
• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe comes together fast, making it a great option for a weeknight meal when you want something flavorful without a lot of effort.
• Versatile and Customizable: While this recipe uses chicken sausage, you can easily substitute with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for different flavors. The dish also works well with various vegetables or seasonings, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-550 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-550 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet:

• 1 lb chicken sausage (or your preferred sausage variety)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While this recipe doesn’t require specialized equipment, having the following tools will make the process even easier:

1. Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A 12-inch skillet works best for this recipe. The larger surface allows the orzo to cook evenly and provides enough room to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A spoon or spatula will help you stir the sausage and vegetables, ensuring even cooking and preventing anything from sticking to the pan.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for the chicken broth, cream, and seasonings ensure the perfect balance of flavors.
4. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make it easier to dice the onion and garlic, as well as slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
5. Grater or Cheese Shredder: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds more flavor and creaminess compared to pre-shredded cheese, making this step worth the extra effort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken sausage. If you’re using sausage links, remove the casing before cooking, then slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces. Brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. This step enhances the flavor base of the dish.

3. Cook the Orzo

Next, add the uncooked orzo to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir the orzo for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it, which will bring out a nutty flavor and help it absorb the creamy sauce later.

4. Add the Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook the orzo for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The liquid will absorb into the orzo, and the pasta will cook to al dente. Keep an eye on it, and if the broth reduces too quickly, add a little more chicken broth or water.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, rich texture that coats the orzo beautifully.

6. Combine the Sausage and Serve

Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.

Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and added freshness.

7. Serve

Serve the creamy chicken sausage orzo hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the rich, creamy comfort of this easy-to-make skillet dish.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Use High-Quality Sausage: For the best flavor, use good-quality chicken sausage. Look for a brand with a good balance of seasoning. If you can, go for sausages with a lower fat content to keep the dish lighter.
• Toast the Orzo: Toasting the orzo in the pan before adding the broth helps enhance its flavor. This step is quick but adds depth to the final dish.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a richer sauce, you can use more cream or add a little bit of cream cheese for extra smoothness. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk.
• Season to Taste: The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to be customized. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or toss in some Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition: You can easily incorporate vegetables into this dish for added nutrients and flavor. Consider adding spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers to the skillet once the orzo is cooked.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan: While pre-shredded Parmesan cheese is convenient, freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly and have a more intense flavor. It’s worth the extra step for a creamier texture.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Turkey Sausage Orzo Skillet: Swap the chicken sausage for turkey sausage to create a lighter version of this dish. Turkey sausage still offers great flavor and works wonderfully in this creamy skillet recipe.
• Vegetarian Orzo Skillet: Omit the sausage altogether for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can substitute with roasted mushrooms, zucchini, or other hearty vegetables. Adding a can of white beans or chickpeas will also boost the protein content.
• Spicy Sausage Orzo Skillet: If you like a little heat, opt for spicy chicken sausage or add some red pepper flakes to the dish. The spicy sausage will add an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.
• Lemon Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet: For a bright and refreshing twist, add a splash of lemon juice and zest right before serving. This addition will give the dish a light, citrusy flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess.

Storage and Shelf Life

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm the casserole in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Pair this hearty skillet meal with a variety of sides to complement the creamy, savory flavors:

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the skillet. Try a simple arugula salad or a mixed greens salad with lemon dressing.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce and add a little crunch to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli add a nice contrast to the creamy orzo and are perfect for adding more nutrients to the meal.
• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs wonderfully with the rich creaminess of the skillet.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender orzo, and savory chicken sausage, this skillet meal is perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for your family or serving guests, this dish will be a hit. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness with minimal cleanup, and savor the satisfaction of a great meal.