Description
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a hearty one-pan dish loaded with tender chicken sausage, creamy orzo, and optional add-ins for a customizable, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- 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)
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated cheese
- Lemon zest (for brightness)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook 3-5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the pan. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo absorbs most liquid.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta). Mix until smooth. Return chicken sausage to skillet and stir to combine. Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and lemon zest. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as feta for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Optional add-ins like spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish to taste for a personalized touch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
