Creamy orzo combined with tender chicken sausage creates a delightful dish that’s not only flavorful but also remarkably simple to prepare. The comforting texture of orzo, paired with the savory notes of sausage, makes it a standout meal for gatherings or family dinners. I recall enjoying similar one-pan wonders, where the essence of the meal comes together beautifully without fuss.
Orzo with Chicken Sausage
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A delightful dish combining creamy orzo and tender chicken sausage, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (or sub kale)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, roughly 3 minutes.
- Add the orzo to the mixture, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is heated through.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
For a leaner option, swap in turkey sausage. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Why you’ll love this dish
The beauty of this meal lies in its versatility and ease. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something satisfying yet not overly complicated, this dish delivers on all fronts. Additionally, it allows for effortless clean-up, keeping your cooking experience enjoyable from start to finish. A recent review perfectly sums it up: “A delicious and satisfying meal that everyone in the family loved!”
The cooking process explained
Creating this delightful dish involves a few simple steps that come together harmoniously. With a bit of prep work, you’ll be rewarded with a creamy, flavorful meal in no time.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
What you’ll need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (or sub kale)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or use half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, roughly 3 minutes.
- Add the orzo to the mixture, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Lower the heat, then stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the sauce is heated through.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines when served warm, but don’t shy away from exploring pairing options. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements it nicely. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty baguette slices that can soak up any remaining creaminess.
Storage and reheating tips
If you’ve made a larger batch, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet and warm over low heat until heated through. If you wish to freeze the dish, it can last up to 2 months; however, note that the creaminess may change upon thawing.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, consider browning the sausage slightly longer for added flavor. If you want to reduce the creaminess, try using Greek yogurt or a lighter dairy alternative. Also, don’t hesitate to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Creative twists
This dish can be easily adapted to suit various tastes. You might swap in turkey sausage for a leaner option or experiment with adding a handful of sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an additional layer of flavor. Use whole wheat orzo for a healthier take, or even try an alternative grain like quinoa.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage works well, and for a spicier kick, consider using Italian chicken sausage.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
While heavy cream adds richness, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.