Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Creamy pasta dishes have a special way of warming the soul and bringing comfort to the table. Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is one such recipe that effortlessly combines tender chicken sausage, creamy sauce, and the delightful texture of orzo pasta. This one-pot wonder is not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite sausage flavors, add in fresh greens, or top it with a sprinkle of cheese for a truly satisfying meal.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

To make this creamy and comforting dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that work together beautifully. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo:

• Chicken Sausage: The star of the show! Choose your favorite variety, such as cheddar, feta, or even a spicy option, to add bold flavor.
• Orzo Pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks up quickly and soaks up all the creamy goodness.
• Chicken Broth: The liquid base that helps cook the orzo to tender perfection.
• Heavy Cream: This adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the sauce. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables provide a savory foundation for the dish.
• Seasonings: A blend of dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese are great options to stir in at the end.
• Optional Add-Ins: For extra nutrition and flavor, you can include wilted spinach or kale, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Don’t forget the finishing touches! Garnish your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra cheese, and a bright note of lemon zest.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced chicken sausage and cook until nicely browned. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.

Toast the Orzo

Next, it’s time to add the orzo to the skillet. Toasting the pasta for a minute or two helps to enhance its nutty, earthy flavor and creates a richer, more complex base for the dish.

Simmering the Mixture

Once the orzo is lightly toasted, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Cooking Until Tender

Keep a close eye on the orzo during the simmering process, as it can go from perfectly cooked to mushy if left unattended for too long. Aim for around 10-12 minutes of simmering, or until the orzo reaches your desired texture.

Adding Cheese and Optional Greens

Once the orzo is tender, stir in the shredded cheese and any additional ingredients you’d like, such as fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Let the cheese melt and the greens wilt, then you’re ready to serve!

Finishing Touches and Serving

For the final flourish, garnish your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra cheese, and a zest of lemon. Serve this comforting dish warm and enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

One serving of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo (approximately 1 cup) contains approximately 450 calories, 25 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat, and 35 grams of carbohydrates. It’s a satisfying and well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, as well as essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and dairy ingredients.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

The beauty of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is its versatility. You can easily switch up the protein by using Italian sausage, chorizo, or even ground turkey or beef. If you’re not a fan of orzo, try swapping it for another small pasta shape, like ditalini or acini di pepe. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the sausage and add in more veggies, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. The possibilities are endless!

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo meal, consider serving it with a fresh, crisp salad, such as a Mediterranean-inspired salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. A crusty loaf of bread or garlic bread also makes a delightful accompaniment. For beverages, a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the dish perfectly.

FAQs about Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

1. What ingredients do I need to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?

To make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo, you will typically need the following ingredients: chicken sausage (sliced), orzo pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative, onion and garlic, fresh spinach or other leafy greens, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Optional toppings include grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs.

2. How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?

Preparation and cooking time for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is usually around 30 to 40 minutes. This includes time for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, cooking the orzo, and combining everything with the creamy sauce.

3. Can I make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

4. Is Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a great option for meal prep. You can portion it out into individual servings for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers and consider adding fresh greens or toppings when serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken over Parmesan Pasta
• Buffalo Chicken Alfredo Pasta
• Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting and versatile one-pot meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its delightful blend of tender chicken sausage, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked orzo, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, give this recipe a try and experience the irresistible combination of flavors and textures.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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