The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow in my kitchen, and I was craving something hearty yet quick to prepare. Enter the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo – my latest culinary discovery that has become an instant weeknight favorite. As I tossed the savory chicken sausage into the pan and listened to it sizzle, the rich aroma of garlic mingled with the comforting scent of simmering broth, instantly lifting my spirits.
What I adore about this one-pan meal is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of fresh spinach, this dish easily adapts to whatever you have on hand. In less than 30 minutes, the orzo transforms into a creamy, satisfying plate that delights the senses – perfect for those busy evenings when you want something nourishing without the fuss. Ready to dive in? Let’s whip up this delicious Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo together!
Why will you love Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Quick and Easy: With just one pan and under 30 minutes, this dish makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
Creamy Goodness: The rich sauce enveloping the orzo delivers that comforting texture you crave.
Customizable Delight: Adapt to your taste with different proteins and veggies, like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes!
Protein-Packed: The chicken sausage adds a hearty dose of flavor and nutrition, keeping you satisfied.
Crowd-Pleaser: A family favorite, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring happy faces at the dinner table!
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Ingredients
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For the Base
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Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
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Chicken Sausage (12 oz, sliced) – Serves as the main protein, providing hearty flavor; feel free to experiment with different chicken sausage flavors!
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Onion (½ cup, finely chopped) – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots work well for a milder taste if preferred.
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Elevates the flavor profile significantly; garlic powder can be a handy substitute in a pinch.
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Orzo Pasta (1 cup) – Core carb of the dish; gluten-free pasta or rice is a great alternative for gluten-free diets.
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For the Sauce
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Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Adds moisture and enhances flavor; vegetable broth makes this dish vegetarian-friendly.
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Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Brings the creaminess; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
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Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Provides an earthy aroma; Italian seasoning can also be used if thyme isn’t handy.
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Paprika (½ tsp) – Introduces a mild warmth; smoked paprika can add a delightful smokiness to the dish.
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Salt (½ tsp) – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust based on your dietary needs.
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Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a hint of spice; modify according to your heat preference.
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For the Finish
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese (½ cup) – Adds a creamy texture; feta cheese substitutes wonderfully for a Mediterranean twist.
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Optional Add-Ins:
- Spinach or Kale (1 cup) – Incorporate these for added nutrients and color.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes (½ cup) – Perfect for a burst of flavor; feel free to toss them in for extra richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp) – A sprinkle of these can spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous!
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a fulfilling meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This step enhances the flavors by creating a perfect base for sautéing.
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Sauté the Sausage: Add the 12 oz of sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until browned and sizzling, then remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
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Cook the Onions: In the same skillet, toss in ½ cup of finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant, then add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the aroma.
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Toast the Orzo: Add 1 cup of orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until lightly toasted. This step intensifies the orzo’s flavor, giving a delightful depth to the dish.
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Simmer: Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender.
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Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, if preferred). Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix gently until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Incorporate Add-Ins: If using, mix in your optional add-ins like 1 cup of spinach or kale and ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes at this stage, allowing them to soften and blend with the dish.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onion and garlic) and slice the chicken sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to save precious time. Additionally, you can combine the orzo and broth in a separate container to have everything ready to go when you’re ready to cook. To maintain the dish’s quality, refrain from adding the cream and cheese until right before serving; this ensures that everything remains creamy and fresh. When ready to finish, simply sauté your prepped ingredients, add the orzo mixture, and stir in cream and cheese for a quick, comforting dinner that feels just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
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Perfect Creaminess: Use full-fat heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
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Toasting Orzo: Don’t skip toasting the orzo before adding broth; this deepens its flavor and enhances the overall taste of the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo.
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Gradual Broth Addition: Avoid adding too much broth at once. Let the orzo absorb liquid gradually to prevent it from becoming mushy.
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Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the orzo! It should be tender yet still have a slight bite; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
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Customization: Feel free to be creative with your add-ins! Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can brighten the dish and boost its nutritional content.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
- Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume it within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: To freeze, cool the orzo completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Heat leftovers over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or cream to prevent drying out; stir occasionally until heated through.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own perfect dish!
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Sausage Swap: Try turkey or plant-based sausage for a leaner option that caters to different dietary preferences. It’ll keep the flavors rich and satisfying!
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Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and color. A handful of fresh kale or spinach can give this dish a vibrant twist!
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap orzo for quinoa or gluten-free pasta. Both alternatives create a delightful texture while keeping the heartiness intact.
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Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried thyme for a pop of fresh flavor. It’ll elevate your dish and add a lovely aroma.
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Cheese Variation: Replace cheddar with goat cheese or mascarpone for a creamier and tangy finish. This change can transform the flavor profile beautifully.
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Extra Creaminess: For an indulgent touch, stir in cream cheese along with the heavy cream. It adds a velvety texture that’s hard to resist!
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Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery flavor that wakes up your palate!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a topping for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
With these variations at your fingertips, your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo will never get boring!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Creating a delightful meal is all about balance, and pairing the right sides with your creamy dish can elevate its flavors and textures.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture makes this a classic companion to soak up the luscious sauce from the orzo.
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Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad offers a refreshing contrast that balances the creaminess, brightening every bite.
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Roasted Veggies: Roasting brings out deep flavors; seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can complement the dish beautifully and add color to your plate.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy orzo.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the meal with its crisp acidity, harmonizing perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light and refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate after the hearty main dish, leaving a lasting and pleasant finish.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken sausage is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can choose any flavor that you love, whether it’s cheddar, feta, or a spicy variant. Each will add its own wonderful twist to the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo. I often mix things up depending on what I have on hand, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to rejuvenate the creamy sauce. It’s excellent for meal prep!
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Yes, you can! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight, and when you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth to restore creaminess.
What dietary modifications can I make to this recipe?
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is its customizability! For gluten-free options, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice. You can also replace the chicken sausage with turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter version. Make sure to adjust seasonings and add flavors suited to your dietary needs.
How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushy texture, toast the orzo for about 1 minute before adding the broth. Also, add the broth gradually, allowing the orzo to absorb it before adding more. It’s crucial to keep an eye on the cooking time—ideal orzo should be tender yet slightly firm to the bite.
What can I add for extra nutrition and flavor?
Experiment with seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes. Adding these not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the color and flavor of the dish. A hint of red pepper flakes could add a spicy kick as well!
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, warm up olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until browned, then remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring for about 1 minute until lightly toasted.
- Pour in chicken broth along with thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Return sausage to the skillet and mix gently.
- If using, mix in spinach or kale and sun-dried tomatoes, allowing them to soften.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness.