Introduction

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken sausage, cheesy orzo, and a touch of cream, it’s both flavorful and satisfying.

A white bowl filled with a creamy pasta dish sits on a white marbled surface. The pasta is coated in a light orange sauce, mixed with small green spinach leaves scattered throughout. On top are evenly placed pieces of browned shrimp, adding a rich orange-brown color. Bits of grated cheese and small green herb pieces are sprinkled on the creamy surface, giving texture and color contrast. The dish looks warm, rich, and creamy, with the shrimp standing out on the creamy pasta base. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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: 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
Optional: ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)
Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
For Garnishing: Fresh parsley, chopped
For Garnishing: Extra grated cheese
For Garnishing: Lemon zest (for brightness)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, 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.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add dried 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.
Step 4: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and combine. If using spinach, kale, or sun-dried tomatoes, stir them in now.
Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter, tangy alternative.
Try different sausage flavors like spicy Italian or smoked to vary the taste.
Add a handful of fresh greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
For a Mediterranean twist, include sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese.
Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.

Storage

Store leftover orzo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a creamy pasta dish featuring shrimp layered on top, giving a rich orange-pink color with light golden-brown edges. The pasta underneath looks soft and coated in a thick, pale yellow sauce mixed with bits of green herbs scattered throughout. The shrimp form the top layer, glistening and slightly curled, contrasting with the smoothness of the sauce and pasta beneath. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini can work well, but cooking times may vary slightly. Adjust accordingly and keep an eye on liquid absorption.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream, and replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether for a lighter dish.