Introduction

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Tender orzo pasta combines with savory chicken sausage and a luscious creamy sauce for a dish that feels both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

This close-up image shows a creamy pasta dish in a black pan, with three main layers visible. The bottom layer is made of small, ridged pasta pieces that are light yellow in color and cooked to a soft texture. The middle layer features tender cooked spinach leaves, which are dark green and slightly wilted, mixed evenly throughout the pasta. The top layer consists of browned sausage slices that are golden brown with a slight crisp on the edges, scattered across the dish. The creamy orange sauce coats the pasta and sausage, giving a smooth, rich look. A light wooden spoon is placed on the right side, partially lifting some of the pasta. The whole scene sits on a white marbled textured surface. 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 add-ins:
- 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
For garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra grated cheese
- Lemon zest (for brightness)

Instructions

Step 1: 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.
Step 2: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced 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 the thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 4: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, if using). Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine. If desired, fold in spinach or kale and sun-dried tomatoes now.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, extra grated cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to lighten the dish while keeping creaminess.
Try different sausage flavors like spicy or herb-infused to tailor the dish to your taste.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.
Use kale or spinach for added nutrients and bright color.

Storage

Store any leftovers 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 chicken broth or water if the dish thickens too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy orzo pasta dish in a black pan, showing multiple round slices of browned sausage scattered throughout. The orzo pasta is small, rice-shaped, and coated in a thick, light orange sauce that glistens. Bright green wilted spinach leaves are mixed evenly among the pasta and sausage slices. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan, partly covered by the food. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini, acini di pepe, or even small shells work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a dairy-free cream substitute and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it creamy and delicious.