Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for families. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cozy dish that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

This recipe is easy to prepare and uses everyday ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. It’s a complete meal in a single pan, which means less cleanup for you. The combination of chicken sausage, orzo, and creamy goodness creates a dish that’s satisfying and heartwarming. It’s also family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Making this dish is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You start by sautéing the chicken sausage, then add in your aromatics. Next, stir in the orzo and broth, letting it simmer until tender. Finally, mix in some cream and cheese for that deliciously creamy texture. It’s a simple step-by-step method that’s hard to mess up!

What You Need

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

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)

Step-by-Step

Cooking Steps

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.
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.
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.
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.
Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

This dish is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread. For a refreshing touch, you can serve it with lemon wedges. It’s a great choice for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

To keep leftovers fresh, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of extra chicken broth if needed.

Recipe Tips

Cook the Sausage First: This brings out the best flavors.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on it as it simmers for the perfect texture.
Experiment with Greens: Spinach, kale, or even peas work wonderfully for added nutrition.
Add Fresh Herbs: A bit of fresh basil or oregano can elevate the dish.
Use Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, gouda, or a blend for variety.

Variations & Swaps

Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Different Proteins: Swap out chicken sausage for turkey sausage or cooked chicken.
Make It Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and leave out the sausage to keep it plant-based.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything but the cream and cheese in advance. Store in the fridge and then add those ingredients when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy again.

What if I don’t have orzo?
You can substitute with any small pasta shape, like ditalini or even rice, but be mindful of cooking times.

How do I prevent the orzo from becoming mushy?
Follow the cooking times closely and stir occasionally. If you notice it’s absorbing too much liquid, reduce the heat.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or any vegetables you enjoy. They’ll add flavor and nutrition.