Name: Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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)

Jump to Recipe

Let me introduce you to your new weeknight go-to: Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients. This dish brings together juicy chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, melty cheese, and a dreamy touch of cream, all cooked up in a single skillet. It’s easy enough for a cozy night in yet impressive enough for company, and you’ll love that everything comes together in under 30 minutes. With plenty of options to make it your own and very little cleanup, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients is refreshingly straightforward. Each element has a clear purpose, from adding flavor and richness to creating those fantastic pops of color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each part matters:

Olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps everything brown beautifully in the pan.
Chicken sausage: Deliciously savory, and you can choose from cheddar, feta, or your personal favorite for a custom touch.
Onion: Brings sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of your dish.
Garlic: Infuses the orzo with irresistible aroma and a savory kick.
Orzo pasta: This small, rice-like pasta gets incredibly creamy as it absorbs all the saucy goodness!
Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds body and umami without making things too salty.
Heavy cream (or Greek yogurt): Creates that luscious texture—use yogurt if you want to keep it lighter.
Dried thyme: Delivers a touch of herby warmth that pairs perfectly with sausage and cheese.
Paprika: A gentle smoky note and lovely color make every bite more interesting.
Salt and black pepper: Because every great recipe needs well-balanced seasoning!
Shredded cheddar or feta cheese: Melts into the dish for gooey decadence or a sharp Mediterranean kick, depending on your choice.
Spinach or kale (optional): For extra nutrition and vibrant green flecks.
Sun-dried tomatoes (optional): Add a burst of sweet-tangy flavor and a bit of chew.
Red pepper flakes (optional): If you’re in the mood for a gentle buzz of heat.
Fresh parsley, extra cheese, lemon zest (for garnish): These final touches add color, flavor, and a bright finish that makes every bowl pop.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in your trusty large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and let it sizzle to golden perfection—about 3 to 5 minutes. Browning the sausage first creates savory bits in the pan that deepen the flavor of the whole dish. Transfer the sausage out for now, but don’t wipe out the pan; those bits are culinary gold!

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics & Orzo

In the same skillet, toss in chopped onion and let it soften for a couple of minutes. When it’s just turning translucent, add minced garlic and cook until wonderfully fragrant (just 30 seconds so it doesn’t burn). Next, add the orzo and let it toast for a minute. Toasting orzo gives it a nutty flavor and helps the pasta retain its shape as it simmers.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Now comes the magic: pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—over the next 8 to 10 minutes, the orzo will soften and soak up nearly all the savory broth, forming the base of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Reduce the heat and gently stir in heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter take) along with the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is smooth and beautifully creamy. Slide the browned sausage and any juices back into the pan. If you’re adding spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes, now’s the time—these extras boost nutrition and add bursts of color and flavor.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Once everything is creamy and combined, pull the skillet off the heat. Pile it into bowls and shower with fresh parsley, more cheese if you like, and a quick sprinkle of lemon zest. Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients is best served while warm and melty, straight from the skillet!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh parsley instantly freshens up the whole dish and adds a vibrant green touch. Grate extra cheddar or crumble more feta on top for extra richness, and don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds brightness that wakes up all the flavors in your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a lovely companion, balancing out the creaminess of the main dish. Warm crusty bread or garlic toast is another favorite, perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. For a veggie boost, try simple roasted broccoli or asparagus alongside your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the orzo into shallow bowls and swirl in a few fresh greens right before serving for a pop of color. For a dinner party, serve family-style right out of the skillet with cocktails on the side. Or, portion the dish into ramekins, sprinkle with extra cheese, and run them under the broiler for a bubbling finish that makes Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients feel instantly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients cool slightly before transferring to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it will keep well for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers extra delicious!

Freezing

While this dish is creamiest when fresh, it can be frozen if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Keep in mind that the sauce may separate slightly, but a vigorous stir will help bring it back together.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a splash of broth or cream to restore the silky texture. Avoid boiling, as that can make the orzo mushy. Give it a fresh hit of parsley and lemon zest to brighten up the flavors before serving again!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta if I don’t have orzo?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti will work in a pinch—just monitor the liquid and cooking time. The texture will differ slightly, but the overall creamy, hearty spirit of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients will still shine through.

What’s the best chicken sausage to use?

You really can’t go wrong—cheddar chicken sausage gives a comforting, cheesy vibe, while feta chicken sausage creates a tangy, Mediterranean twist. Choose what you love best or whatever is available at your local store. Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients is wonderfully adaptable!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap the cream for a plant-based alternative, like unsweetened oat cream or coconut cream, and use a dairy-free cheese. The result will still be creamy and satisfying—but make sure to taste and adjust seasonings as some non-dairy products can be milder.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, most kids love the mild, cheesy flavors and fun shape of orzo! If you’re serving picky eaters, go easy on any optional extras like red pepper flakes or sun-dried tomatoes, and stick with cheddar for a classic flavor profile in your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Stir in bell peppers, peas, mushrooms, or zucchini with the onion for extra nutrition and color. This is a perfect recipe to use up whatever you have on hand and to sneak in a few extra veggies.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan MealIngredients—so quick, ultra-comforting, and packed with flavor. If you’re searching for a simple dinner that everyone wants seconds of, this recipe is absolutely worth a spot in your rotation. Give it a try, and let the creamy magic work its way into your weeknight favorites!