If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and absolutely bursting with flavor, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe. It perfectly balances the savory richness of chicken sausage with the silky, tender orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce with hints of garlic and Parmesan. This dish comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve been cooking all day, making it a total weeknight hero that’s sure to impress everyone around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, straightforward ingredients are the foundation of this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or freshness, making the dish a well-rounded delight every time.
- Olive oil: Perfect for browning the chicken sausage and sautéing the aromatics without overpowering the dish.
- Chicken sausage: Brings savory, juicy flavor and protein that makes this meal satisfying and hearty.
- Small onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and essential aromatic base to build flavor.
- Garlic cloves: Provide that irresistible fragrant punch that complements all other ingredients.
- Orzo pasta: The star carbohydrate that’s tiny, tender, and soaks up all the creamy goodness perfectly.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the orzo with extra depth, ensuring every bite is savory and rich.
- Heavy cream: Gives the dish its signature creamy texture and indulgent mouthfeel.
- Baby spinach: Adds lovely color, freshness, and a hint of earthiness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty complexity that balances the cream and sausage.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the vibrant flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A bright, herbal finish that lifts the richness just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced chicken sausage. Let it cook until each piece is nicely browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This step creates that great caramelized flavor that will make the whole dish irresistible. Once done, set the sausage aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet (because those flavorful browned bits are precious!), add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, toss in minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—don’t let it burn! This builds a fragrant base that’s crucial for that deep, homey flavor in your creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Stir in the orzo pasta next and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This toasting step enhances the pasta’s nuttiness and prevents it from becoming mushy when cooked in liquid later. It also locks in some texture that’s key to this dish’s charm.
Step 4: Simmer with Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, crank the heat to bring it to a boil, then reduce to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed. This is where the pasta absorbs all that natural savoriness, making it impossible to resist.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the orzo is tender, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and baby spinach. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens into the dreamy creaminess that defines this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe.
Step 6: Combine and Season
Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet and gently stir to incorporate all the ingredients. Taste test now and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This final step ensures every bite is perfectly balanced with flavor—rich, creamy, and just right.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of herbal brightness and visual appeal. This simple touch adds freshness that brightens up the whole dish beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but you can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or drizzle a bit of good-quality olive oil to amplify the flavors. A few red pepper flakes add a pleasant kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This creamy, comforting dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies to add balance and crunch. Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or even a simple tomato salad would make fantastic companions without overshadowing the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe in rustic bowls, garnished with a lemon wedge to add a zesty contrast at the table. Alternatively, try spooning it into hollowed-out bell peppers or serve it family-style in a large skillet for a cozy, shared meal vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it even better the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but be aware that the creamy texture might change slightly. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back the silky texture. Avoid microwaving directly as it can cause separation or dry out the orzo.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap chicken sausage with Italian, turkey, or even a spicy chorizo for a different flavor profile that suits your taste.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute, and you’re good to go.
Can I prepare this recipe without the spinach?
Of course! Spinach adds freshness and color, but if you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand, you can leave it out or swap in kale or arugula for a slightly different taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté or choose a spicy chicken sausage variety for an extra kick that warms the palate.
What’s the best type of orzo to use?
Regular dry orzo pasta works best for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce. Avoid instant varieties as they might become mushy in the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe enough—it’s tasty, comforting, and surprisingly quick to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table every time. So grab those simple ingredients and dive into a bowl of creamy, savory goodness that feels like a hug on a plate.
Print
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo dish that combines tender chicken sausage, creamy Parmesan sauce, and nutritious spinach, all cooked together with orzo pasta for a quick and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry Items
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the orzo and enhance its flavor.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cream, cheese, and spinach: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens.
- Combine with sausage and season: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream.
- Use gluten-free orzo pasta if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If chicken sausage is not available, Italian sausage or turkey sausage can be good alternatives.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
