Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A Delicious One-Pot Recipe for Dinner

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. As I first discovered this recipe, I was captivated by its rich, creamy texture and the savory notes of chicken sausage that meld beautifully with the tender orzo pasta. This dish has roots in Italian cuisine, where orzo is often used in soups and salads, but I’ve taken it a step further by creating a creamy version that is perfect for any occasion.

People love Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo not just for its incredible taste, but also for its convenience. It’s a one-pot meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors and textures—from the juicy chicken sausage to the creamy sauce—creates a satisfying experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (I prefer mild Italian sausage for flavor)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. I like to have everything prepped and ready to go before I start cooking. 2. Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using links, make sure to remove the casings before slicing. 3. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. I find that using a garlic press makes the job easier and ensures the garlic is finely minced. 4. If you’re using fresh spinach, wash and roughly chop it. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water. 5. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.

Cooking the Chicken Sausage

6. In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. The aroma will be fantastic! 7. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This will allow the flavors to develop in the next steps.

Sautéing the Vegetables

8. In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. 9. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 10. Now, it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.

Cooking the Orzo

11. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. 12. Once boiling, add the orzo pasta to the pot. Stir well to ensure the orzo is evenly distributed in the broth. 13. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the orzo for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The orzo should be al dente and most of the liquid should be absorbed. If it looks too dry, feel free to add a splash more broth.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

14. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the heavy cream. This is where the dish gets its creamy texture. 15. Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the pot along with the chopped spinach, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through. 16. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust as needed. 17. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor and creaminess to the dish.

Final Touches and Serving

18. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the pot from the heat. 19. Serve the creamy chicken sausage orzo in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. 20. Enjoy your delicious, creamy chicken sausage orzo! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead.

Storage Tips

21. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb more liquid as it sits, so you might want to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to bring back the creaminess. 22. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a bowl, adding a little extra

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender chicken sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo creates a comforting dish that is sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken sausage for turkey or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adding seasonal vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes can also enhance the dish and add a pop of color and nutrition. I encourage you to give this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo a shot in your kitchen. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other to make mealtime a delightful adventure. Happy cooking! Print