Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
This dish brings together the hearty flavors of chicken sausage and the comforting texture of orzo in a creamy, delicious one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is quick to whip up and pleasing to the palate.
why make this recipe
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is not only tasty but also very easy to prepare. The combination of chicken sausage and orzo provides a satisfying meal that is full of flavor. With just one skillet to clean up afterward, it is ideal for those who want a quick meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Plus, incorporating fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, making this dish a family favorite.
how to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken sausage
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for a minute before adding the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook according to package instructions until the orzo is tender.
- Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Serve the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet straight from the pan, allowing everyone to help themselves. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a little added richness.
how to store Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
To store leftovers, let the dish cool down completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a bit of extra cream or broth if it seems too dry.
tips to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic or onions when cooking the sausage.
- You can also substitute the spinach with other leafy greens such as kale or arugula.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or your choice of spicy sausage.
variation
This recipe is versatile! You can replace chicken sausage with turkey sausage or even omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for more variety.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can swap orzo for another type of small pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance but it’s best to store the sauce separately. Combine it with the orzo and heat it up when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free orzo or any other gluten-free pasta. Check the labels on the chicken sausage to ensure it fits your dietary preferences.
PrintCreamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
A creamy one-pan meal combining chicken sausage and orzo, with fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken sausage
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the orzo and cook for a minute before adding the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook according to package instructions until the orzo is tender.
- Add fresh spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the spinach is wilted and everything is well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onions when cooking the sausage. Substitute spinach with other leafy greens if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
