Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Looking for a simple, hearty, and delicious weeknight dinner that requires minimal cleanup? This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet recipe is the answer! Packed with savory chicken sausage, creamy orzo, and fresh veggies, this one-pan dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish and offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknights.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes make cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Easily swap vegetables or add different spices to suit your taste.
• Comforting and Creamy: The orzo and creamy sauce blend into a rich, cozy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into rounds (use mild or spicy sausage as preferred)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

1. In the same skillet, add the orzo and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to lightly toast the orzo.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor.
3. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover. Let the orzo cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Once the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed, add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Stir in the cooked sausage, chopped spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and the vegetables are softened.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Season

1. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Choose Quality Sausage: Chicken sausage flavors vary; pick one that complements the dish, such as garlic, basil, or spicy Italian sausage.
• Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost the veggie content.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a kick.
• Lighten It Up: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk for a lighter version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a perfect blend of savory flavors, creamy texture, and wholesome ingredients that make it a quick and satisfying one-pan meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy this cozy, flavorful meal any night of the week with minimal effort and maximum taste!

Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Offer crusty bread or garlic bread to scoop up the sauce for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Add a Vegetable Side: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans make great veggie companions.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well in the fridge, with flavors developing even more over time.
• Freezing: Although orzo can get slightly softer upon reheating, you can freeze this dish if needed. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

• On the Stove: Reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth, cream, or milk to restore the creamy texture if it’s thickened in the fridge.
• In the Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through. Add a small amount of liquid to keep the sauce smooth.

By following these tips, your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet will be just as delicious as when freshly made!

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative, like gluten-free orzo or small quinoa pasta. Adjust cooking time as needed, since gluten-free pasta can cook differently.

2. Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely. You can use pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Each type brings a unique flavor, so choose based on your preference.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk with a spoonful of dairy-free cream cheese to add thickness.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it with a little added liquid, like broth or cream, to bring back its creamy consistency before serving.

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