There’s something magical about a one-pan meal, isn’t there? The sizzling sound as the chicken sausage dances in the skillet, the wafting aroma of garlic and herbs making your mouth water—this is where comfort food meets culinary delight. Enter the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet, a dish that promises to be your new weeknight hero. honey garlic chicken kabobs creamy chicken and corn pasta Imagine forkfuls of creamy orzo, perfectly cooked alongside tender slices of chicken sausage, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that makes your taste buds sing. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Bangers and Mash recipe.
Remember those evenings when dinner feels like an uphill battle? You’re exhausted from the day, and takeout just doesn’t cut it anymore. This skillet dish emerges like a knight in shining armor. It’s not only quick and easy but also brings everyone together around the table, sharing laughs and stories as they dig into this comforting bowl of goodness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a breeze to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Packed with flavor, it’s a delightful blend of savory sausage and creamy orzo that pleases every palate
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfectly versatile for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!
Cooking this dish brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed through the kitchen while we enjoyed every last bite together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chicken Sausage: Opt for your favorite flavor—smoked, spicy, or sweet—for added depth in every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Chicken Fajitas recipe.
- Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and absorbs all the savory flavors beautifully; no need for fancy shapes here!
- Fresh Spinach: A handful adds vibrant color and a nutritional boost—plus it wilts down so nicely.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic sweetness; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient for maximum flavor.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess; you could swap with half-and-half if you want to lighten things up.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; it infuses the dish with wonderful flavor. garlic butter chicken with zucchini.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese adds a salty depth; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle for sautéing; it enhances flavors without overpowering them—use extra virgin for an earthy touch.
- Onion: Diced onion provides a sweet base flavor; cook until translucent and fragrant to build your flavor foundation.
- Black Pepper & Salt: Seasoning essentials to taste; adjust according to preference as everything simmers together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. philly cheesesteak sloppy joes.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Crisp Up the Sausage: Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to sizzle.
Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta followed by chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—this helps prevent sticking.
Create Creamy Goodness: After about 10 minutes when orzo is tender but still firm, pour in heavy cream and stir well. Cook for another few minutes until everything thickens slightly into a creamy dream.
Toss in Spinach and Cheese: Fold in fresh spinach until wilted—this should take just 1-2 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into the creamy sauce.
Season & Serve!: Taste your creation and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired. Serve hot with extra cheese sprinkled on top for added flair!
Enjoy this delightful journey of flavors lovingly crafted right from your skillet to your table!
You Must Know
- This creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet is a quick weeknight dinner that’s hearty and comforting
- It combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one pan, making clean-up a breeze
- The creamy sauce envelops the orzo perfectly, creating a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken sausage for optimal flavor, then cook the orzo in the same pan. Incorporate your liquids and spices next to build a rich sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken sausage for turkey or even vegetarian options. Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat cream cheese instead of regular
- Be careful not to overcook the orzo, as it can turn mushy
- Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully
Sometimes, I whip this dish up when friends come over. The laughter and compliments always remind me why I love cooking so much!
FAQ
Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, but cooking times may vary; adjust accordingly for perfect texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely.
What can I do if it’s too thick?
Add more broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet, where tender chicken sausage meets creamy orzo pasta in a savory sauce. This one-pan dish is not only quick and easy but also perfect for busy weeknights, bringing the family together for a delightful meal. Rich in flavor and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken sausage (sliced)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
- Once the orzo is tender (approximately 10 minutes), pour in heavy cream and stir well until slightly thickened.
- Fold in fresh spinach until wilted (1-2 minutes) and mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired, then serve hot with extra cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 770mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
