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Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo : A One-Pan Meal

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A Quick & Indulgent One-Pan Meal

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a quick, protein-packed one-pan meal that combines savory chicken sausage with tender orzo in a rich sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo, Customizable Meal, Easy Recipe, One-Pan Meal, Quick Dinner
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

  • skillet

Ingredients

For the Base

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 12 ounces Chicken Sausage Consider cheddar, feta, or turkey sausage for variety
  • 0.5 cup Onion Finely chopped; yellow or sweet onions recommended
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced

For the Orzo

  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can substitute with gluten-free pasta
  • 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option

For Creaminess

  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can be used for better flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can add a delightful twist

For Seasoning

  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Increase for a spicier kick

For Melting Goodness

  • 0.5 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Feta cheese is a great alternative

For Added Nutrition

  • 1 cup Spinach or Kale Optional
  • 0.5 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Optional for Mediterranean flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adjust to taste

For Garnishing

  • Fresh Parsley, chopped For garnish
  • Extra Grated Cheese & Lemon Zest For garnish

Instructions

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sliced chicken sausage for about 3-5 minutes until nicely browned and fragrant, then set aside to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds, then add orzo and toast it for 1 minute.
  • Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth while scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cover and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
  • Lower the heat, and gently stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until everything is smooth. Add the browned sausage back along with any optional greens or sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, extra cheese, and lemon zest. Serve warm.

Notes

This creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe is a fantastic canvas to create your culinary masterpiece, with endless combinations you can whip up!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 10mg
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