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Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan Meal Recipe

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan Meal Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that combines savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Orzo Skillet:

  • 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)

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

  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!

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo, One-Pan Meal, Orzo Skillet, Chicken Sausage Recipe

Find it online: https://dinewithlily.com/creamy-chicken-sausage-orzo-a-one-pan-meal-recipe/