Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet: A One-Pan Comfort Meal

Introduction

Looking for a quick and delicious one-pan dinner? This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is the perfect balance of rich flavors and easy preparation. Made with juicy chicken sausage, tender orzo, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet simple.

In this article, we’ll guide you through step-by-step instructions, share expert tips, and answer common FAQs to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
✅ Creamy & Flavorful – A rich, comforting sauce with herbs and spices.
✅ Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Skillet:

1 tbsp olive oil
4 chicken sausages, sliced
½ onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Creaminess & Flavor:

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for freshness)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics & Orzo

In the same skillet, sauté diced onions until soft (about 2 minutes).
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add orzo and toast for 1 minute to enhance the nutty flavor.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk. Stir well.
Season with oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the orzo is tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy & Flavorful

Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, and fresh spinach until melted and combined.
Add cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and mix well.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for 2 minutes.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm!

Expert Tips

✅ Use Pre-Cooked Chicken Sausage – It saves time and adds flavor.
✅ Toast the Orzo – It enhances the texture and taste.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Orzo – It should be tender but not mushy.
✅ Customize It – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or swap spinach for kale.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta?

Yes! Small pasta like ditalini or couscous works well, but you may need to adjust the liquid.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

4. What other meats can I use?

Try turkey sausage, shrimp, or rotisserie chicken for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

Want more easy one-pan recipes? Let me know what you'd like to see next!