Description
Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner? Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is the perfect one-pan meal that combines rich flavors and protein-packed ingredients in just 30 minutes. This creamy dish features tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a velvety sauce. It’s customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or sausage varieties, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll have more time to enjoy this comforting dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté sliced chicken sausage until browned, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook chopped onion for 2–3 minutes, add minced garlic and toast orzo for one minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and add seasonings; simmer for 8–10 minutes until orzo absorbs most liquid.
- Stir in heavy cream and cheese until smooth; mix back in the sausage along with spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if desired.
- Garnish with parsley, additional cheese, and lemon zest before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg