Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe
A creamy, comforting one-pan meal featuring tender chicken sausage, orzo pasta, and fresh veggies, all simmered in a luscious creamy sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken sausage links sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1½ cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice the chicken sausage, mince the garlic, and chop the cherry tomatoes. Roughly chop the spinach if needed.
- Sizzle the Chicken Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until evenly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Toast the Orzo and Garlic: Add minced garlic and orzo to the skillet. Stir and cook for about a minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the orzo to lightly toast.
- Simmer to Perfection: Pour in chicken broth, stir, and reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the orzo simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make It Creamy: Once the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.
- Plate It Up: Remove from heat, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- For a gluten-free option, swap orzo for gluten-free pasta or short-grain rice.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist or use fresh basil or oregano for extra flavor.