The smell of savory chicken sausage wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine a creamy, dreamy bowl of orzo nestled among tender pieces of sausage, all waiting for you to dive in. This creamy chicken sausage orzo dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, and it never fails to bring a smile to my face. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
Every time I whip up this recipe, I am transported back to cozy family dinners where laughter echoed through the air. This dish is perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. With every creamy bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy chicken sausage orzo is quick and easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating an indulgent meal that looks stunning on any table
- It’s versatile enough to adapt with seasonal veggies or different proteins based on your cravings
- Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day!
The first time I made this dish, my friends practically licked their plates clean and begged for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Orzo Pasta: This tiny pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all those amazing flavors beautifully.
- Chicken Sausage: Choose your favorite flavor; spicy adds a nice kick while sweet balances it out perfectly.
- Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess that makes this dish oh-so-indulgent.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor and melts wonderfully into the sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Toss in at the end for color and nutrition; it wilts down beautifully.
- Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic will add depth and aroma as it cooks.
- Onion: Diced onion caramelizes beautifully, adding sweetness to balance out the savory sausage.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels in your dish.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle for sautéing and enhancing the richness of flavors throughout the dish.
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Simple but essential; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until they soften and become fragrant.
Add Chicken Sausage: Slice your chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Toss them into the skillet and cook until they get golden brown and crispy edges—about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Orzo: Pour in 1 cup of orzo pasta along with 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir well and let it simmer on medium-low heat until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid—about 10-12 minutes.
Create Creamy Goodness: Once just al dente, reduce heat further. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
Add Spinach: Fold in fresh spinach leaves until wilted—this only takes about 2 minutes. The vibrant green color will brighten up your dish!
Serve & Enjoy: Plate your creamy chicken sausage orzo in shallow bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired. Prepare yourself for happy taste buds!
This creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe isn’t just satisfying; it’s a delightful experience from start to finish! You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping proteins based on what you have at home. Each bite bursts with flavor while providing comfort food vibes that everyone craves! Enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Creamy chicken sausage orzo is more than a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
- Perfectly creamy, this recipe is easy to whip up on busy nights
- The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a family favorite, guaranteed to warm your heart and belly
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken sausage first for maximum flavor, then cook the orzo while preparing the creamy sauce to streamline your cooking process.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping chicken sausage for turkey or adding seasonal veggies like spinach for extra nutrition and flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal creaminess, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded options
- Don’t overcook the orzo; it should be al dente for perfect texture
- Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning to elevate your dish even further
Cooking this creamy chicken sausage orzo has become my go-to comfort recipe during chilly evenings, warming hearts and filling bellies with love.
FAQ
Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, but adjust cooking times according to the pasta type you choose.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole grain orzo and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Can I freeze creamy chicken sausage orzo?
Yes, but the creaminess may change slightly upon thawing; best enjoyed fresh!
Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this creamy chicken sausage orzo, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken sausage, al dente orzo, and rich flavors in a single bowl. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a delightful culinary experience. With each creamy bite, you’ll savor the warmth and joy of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 links chicken sausage (about 8 oz), sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth. Simmer on medium-low until orzo absorbs most of the liquid (10-12 minutes).
- Reduce heat. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold in fresh spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.
