Name: Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken sausages, casing removed and sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Looking for a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that’s packed with flavor? Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a one-pan meal that combines savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and creaminess, making it a delightful option for both busy weeknights and weekend gatherings. With its rich texture and satisfying flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser. The chicken sausage adds a savory depth to the dish, while the creamy sauce binds the orzo and sausage together in a rich, comforting way. It’s quick to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup!

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Ingredients

2 chicken sausages, casing removed and sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Cook the orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil, garlic, and onion. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook the orzo for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the orzo is tender.
Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the orzo is creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme to taste.
Combine and serve: Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet and stir everything together. Let it cook for another minute to heat the sausage through. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can add spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to the skillet. Sauté them with the onions or stir them in with the sausage.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Use Different Sausages: Swap out the chicken sausage for turkey sausage, Italian sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage if you prefer.
Lemon Zest: For a bright, fresh flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Cheese Variations: Try swapping Parmesan for mozzarella or adding a handful of ricotta for an even creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! If you don’t have orzo, you can use another small pasta like elbow macaroni, farfalle, or penne. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream, and using a dairy-free cheese alternative.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. However, the creaminess may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a chopped jalapeño to the skillet when cooking the onions and garlic for a spicy kick.

5. Can I use fresh sausage instead of pre-cooked chicken sausage?

Yes, you can use fresh sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before slicing and adding it back to the skillet.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add a little extra cream or broth to bring back the creaminess.

7. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer a little longer to thicken, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the sauce to help thicken it.

8. Can I add other proteins?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even beef for extra protein and flavor.

9. Is orzo gluten-free?

No, orzo is typically made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This creamy orzo pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a rich and comforting dish that’s sure to impress anyone at the table. With tender sausage, creamy pasta, and a flavorful sauce, this meal comes together in just about 30 minutes and requires minimal ingredients. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or a simple meal for guests. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or try out some variations, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Jane