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Creamy chicken sausage orzo pasta in a bowl.

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

A delicious and easy one-pan meal featuring chicken sausage, orzo pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner with customizable options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: main dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 oz chicken sausage cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety
  • ½ cup onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or feta, depending on your sausage flavor
  • 1 cup spinach or kale for extra greens
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
  • fresh parsley chopped
  • extra grated cheese
  • lemon zest for brightness

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds, then add orzo and toast for 1 minute.
  3. Add chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo absorbs most liquid.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese. Add cooked sausage back and combine. Mix in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes if using.
  5. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and lemon zest. Serve warm!

Notes

Customize the dish with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or red pepper flakes for added flavor and nutrition.