Go Back
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan Meal

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring chicken sausage, orzo pasta, and a creamy medley of spices and cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or feta, depending on your sausage flavor
  • 1 cup spinach or kale for extra greens
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated cheese
  • Lemon zest for brightness

Instructions
 

  • 1. Sauté the Chicken Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • 2. Cook the Aromatics & Orzo: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
  • 3. Simmer the Orzo: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
  • 4. Make it Creamy: Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta for a Mediterranean twist). Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. If adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, mix them in at this step.
  • 5. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm!

Notes

Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Keyword chicken sausage