If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together tender slices of savory chicken sausage, delicate orzo pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce that’s enhanced with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that comes together quickly, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or when you simply want something satisfying without too much fuss. Trust me, once you dive into this creamy goodness, it’s going to be a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet packed with flavor. Each component plays an essential role, from the rich chicken sausage that adds protein and smoky taste, to the orzo that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides the perfect base for cooking the sausage and sautéing the aromatics without overpowering flavors.
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced: Brings savory, meaty richness and a bit of spice depending on the sausage variety you choose.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened and cooked through.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, hearty aroma that enhances all other ingredients.
- 1 cup orzo pasta: A tiny, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth: Provides the cooking liquid that flavors the orzo and keeps it tender.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds the signature creamy texture and richness that makes this dish feel indulgent.
- 1 cup baby spinach: Brings vibrant color and a mild, fresh taste that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty punch that finishes the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a bright, herbaceous note and a splash of color at the end.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage
First things first, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Browning the sausage not only develops flavor but also adds a lovely texture. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside. This step lays a savory foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This step releases the natural sweetness of onions, which melds perfectly with the garlic’s punch. Add the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute more until it’s fragrant — careful not to burn it! These aromatics are the secret to adding depth to the dish.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Now, sprinkle the orzo pasta into the skillet and stir it around for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting orzo lightly before adding liquid gives it a subtle nutty flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy. This little extra step takes your recipe one notch above the ordinary.
Step 4: Simmer in Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This gentle simmer cooks the orzo until it’s tender and most of the broth has been absorbed. You’ll want the orzo to be perfectly cooked, soaking up all that savory goodness.
Step 5: Add Cream, Cheese, and Spinach
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just enough time for the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken into that creamy goodness we’re aiming for. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a gorgeous depth and a slightly salty kick that enhances every bite.
Step 6: Combine with Chicken Sausage and Season
Return the browned chicken sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine it with the creamy orzo mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. This final step brings all the flavors together, creating a warm, bubbling one-pan meal that’s just irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before plating, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. It adds a fresh pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that balances the richness. Now, grab a fork and dig into your masterpiece!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe with freshly chopped parsley is a classic move, but you could also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil. For a touch of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders. These garnishes elevate the dish visually and deepen the flavors with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Something light and fresh cuts through the creaminess perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices also pair beautifully, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe in shallow bowls topped with a lemon wedge for a zesty contrast. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers or baked tomatoes for an impressive presentation that’s still super simple. No matter how you plate it, this recipe’s creamy, comforting vibe shines through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or busy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
Though the creaminess might change slightly, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the flavors and texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
When reheating, do so over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, to prevent the sauce from separating. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the silky consistency. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two in the fridge, making your reheated meal just as delicious as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap chicken sausage for Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your preference. Each variety brings a slightly different flavor profile, which can be a fun way to customize the dish.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Keep in mind the flavor will change but it will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
Definitely! You can cook the orzo and sausage separately, then combine everything just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy. This method also allows you to reheat gently without overcooking the pasta.
What is the best type of orzo to use?
Standard orzo pasta, which is shaped like rice grains, works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s regular orzo and not a whole grain or gluten-free variety unless you adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to stir in mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini when sautéing the onions for added texture and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure all veggies are tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe—it feels like a hug on a plate and comes together with such ease. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy. So grab your skillet and get ready for a flavorful, comforting experience that will soon become one of your favorite go-to recipes.
Print
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a savory chicken broth, then combined with browned chicken sausage, sautéed onions, garlic, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this hearty yet delicate dish is perfect for a simple weeknight dinner that brings together warm, cheesy flavors with a nutritious balance of protein and greens.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This helps to lightly toast the pasta and enhances its nutty flavor.
- Simmer the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Create the creamy sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine sausage and season: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and mix everything well. Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish and added color.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage or any preferred sausage variety.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
- If fresh spinach is unavailable, baby kale or Swiss chard can be used but adjust the cooking time to wilt the greens properly.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Ensure the orzo is simmered with a lid on to cook evenly and absorb the broth fully.
