Description
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting one-pan meal made with tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy sauce brightened with lemon and herbs.
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach or kale
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Season with thyme, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in orzo pasta, chicken broth, and sun-dried tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, spinach, and lemon zest until creamy and wilted.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Swap spinach with kale for a heartier texture.
- Add extra broth if the orzo thickens too much.
- Parmesan can replace cheddar if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan / Skillet
- Cuisine: American