Creamy chicken sausage orzo has become my go-to weeknight hero, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pot meal that delivers so much flavor with minimal fuss. I remember the first time I made this, the aroma of savory chicken sausage and fragrant herbs filled my kitchen, promising a delicious dinner. It quickly became a family favorite, transforming a busy evening into a cozy culinary experience. This truly is an easy creamy chicken sausage pasta that everyone will adore. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation:
- Incredible Flavor: It’s packed with savory chicken sausage, aromatic herbs, and a rich, creamy sauce that’s pure comfort food.
- Super Quick Prep: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this meal on the table fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters rave about this chicken sausage orzo, making it a guaranteed hit for everyone.
- Budget-Conscious: Using affordable ingredients like chicken sausage and orzo makes this a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this chicken sausage orzo with your favorite veggies or a kick of spice.
- Hearty and Filling: It’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious, offering a great balance of protein and carbs.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful creamy orzo with chicken and sausage:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics and browning the chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces – thighs stay incredibly moist and tender in this dish
- 1 pound cooked chicken sausage, sliced – choose your favorite variety, like Italian or a smoky kielbasa
- 1 medium onion, chopped – provides a sweet base flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory punch
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a classic Italian herb note
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – complements the oregano beautifully
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a hint of warmth
- 4 cups chicken broth – the liquid base that cooks the orzo
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta – this tiny pasta shape absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – the secret to that luscious, rich texture
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds salty, nutty depth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – for a pop of freshness and color
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
This one-pot creamy chicken orzo comes together so easily, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner! It’s the perfect way to get a delicious, comforting meal on the table without a lot of fuss.
- Step 1: Get your skillet ready! Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Cook them until they’re nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Then, scoop the chicken out and set it aside.
- Step 2: Now, add 1 pound cooked chicken sausage, sliced to that same skillet. Let it get a little golden brown and delicious, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the sausage and join the chicken on your plate.
- Step 3: Toss in 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook until it starts to soften and look translucent, around 5 minutes. Then, add 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if you like a little warmth. Stir it all around for about a minute until you can smell that amazing fragrance.
- Step 4: Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and give everything a good scrape to get all those tasty bits off the bottom. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta, making sure it’s all submerged in the liquid.
- Step 5: Bring the cooked chicken and sausage back into the skillet. Give it a stir, then cover the skillet tightly. Let it simmer away for 10-12 minutes. You want the orzo to be perfectly tender and for most of that liquid to be absorbed, creating a lovely base for our creamy chicken orzo.
- Step 6: Uncover the skillet and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring gently, until the sauce thickens up and becomes beautifully creamy, coating every grain of orzo. This is where the magic happens for that ultimate comfort food chicken sausage orzo experience.
- Step 7: Taste your creation and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Step 8: Finally, stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Serve your amazing one-pot creamy chicken orzo hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Want to elevate your creamy chicken sausage orzo to legendary status? Try these tried-and-true tips:
- Don’t skip browning the chicken and sausage; it builds a depth of flavor crucial for the final dish.
- Use good quality chicken broth; it makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste of your creamy orzo with chicken and sausage.
- Resist the urge to add more liquid if it seems too thick initially. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it cooks.
- For a cheesy boost, stir in a little extra Parmesan or even some shredded mozzarella at the end.
What’s the secret to perfect creamy chicken sausage orzo?
The real secret to achieving that perfect creamy texture in your chicken sausage orzo is the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese stirred in at the end. This creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite beautifully, making it the best creamy chicken orzo recipe. For more tips on achieving creamy pasta dishes, check out this guide on focaccia bread secrets and recipes.
Can I make creamy chicken sausage orzo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy chicken sausage orzo ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, cook the orzo slightly less, then stir in the cream and cheese just before serving to maintain the best texture. You might also enjoy making sloppy joe bowls ahead of time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy chicken sausage orzo?
A common pitfall is overcooking the orzo, which can make it mushy. Also, ensure you use enough liquid for the orzo to absorb properly. Finally, don’t over-stir once the cream and cheese are added; just gently combine until heated through. For more one-pot meal ideas, consider this one-pot cheesy chicken and broccoli orzo.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
This rich and satisfying creamy chicken sausage orzo is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions. For a pop of freshness, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. A side of crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up any extra creamy sauce – it’s perfect if you’ve made this as a chicken orzo bake creamy variation!
If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, steamed or roasted broccoli or asparagus make excellent companions. They add a lovely touch of green and a healthy balance to the richness of the pasta. This dish truly shines with simple, fresh accompaniments that let the creamy orzo with chicken and sausage take center stage. You might also like to try our Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving for this delightful creamy chicken orzo dinner recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 550
- Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Fiber: Approximately 3g
- Sugar: Approximately 5g
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your creamy chicken orzo skillet meal. For more healthy options, explore our healthy Kit Kat recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
This creamy chicken sausage orzo is fantastic for meal prep, making it a perfect option for a quick creamy chicken sausage orzo lunch or dinner later in the week. Once it has cooled slightly, transfer any leftovers to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored creamy chicken orzo, reheating is simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if it seems a bit thick. Alternatively, microwave it for a minute or two, stirring halfway through, until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using either of these methods. You can find more great recipes on our last recipes page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
What’s the best way to add vegetables to creamy chicken sausage orzo?
You can easily boost the nutrition and flavor of your creamy chicken sausage orzo by adding veggies. Spinach wilts in beautifully during the last few minutes of cooking, while peas or chopped bell peppers can be added with the orzo to cook through. I often add steamed broccoli florets right before serving for a fresh crunch. For another great vegetable dish, try our beet salad recipe.
Can I make creamy chicken sausage orzo with different types of pasta?
While orzo is ideal for its ability to absorb the creamy sauce, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different pasta shapes absorb liquid at varying rates. This flexibility is part of what makes learning how to make creamy chicken orzo so rewarding! You might also enjoy our Cajun lasagna recipe.
How do I make this creamy chicken sausage orzo spicier?
For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes added with the garlic and onions. You could also use a spicy Italian chicken sausage, or even stir in a dash of hot sauce at the end. Adjusting the spice level is a great way to customize your creamy chicken orzo dinner recipe. For another spicy option, consider jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole.
Is it possible to make this a cheesy chicken sausage orzo?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, you can definitely amp up the cheese factor. Stir in an extra 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese along with the heavy cream, or even add some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese right at the end for an even more decadent, cheesy chicken sausage orzo experience.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo You Can Try
This creamy chicken sausage orzo is so versatile, you can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or dietary needs! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add Veggies Galore: For an extra boost of nutrients and color, stir in some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until it wilts. Peas, chopped bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes are also fantastic additions to this creamy chicken orzo with spinach base.
- Make it Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version, you can try substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream, or even using evaporated milk. It might not be quite as rich, but it will still be delightfully creamy.
- Spice it Up: Want more heat? Use spicy Italian chicken sausage, or add a pinch more red pepper flakes to the sautéed aromatics. You can also serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce for individuals to add as they please.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the regular orzo for a gluten-free pasta alternative, like brown rice orzo or a gluten-free blend. Cook according to package directions for a delicious gluten-free chicken sausage orzo.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: Amazing 1-Pot Comfort
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A simple and delicious creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This one-pot meal features tender chicken sausage and creamy orzo pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound cooked chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until lightly browned. Remove sausage and set aside with the chicken.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the orzo pasta.
- Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring, until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving your creamy chicken sausage orzo.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs if preferred.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 550
- Sugar: Approximately 5g
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg
- Fat: Approximately 25g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50g
- Fiber: Approximately 3g
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 120mg
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