Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken sausage orzo. The rich, velvety texture of the sauce wrapped around tender pasta and savory sausage creates a dish that's both hearty and elegant.

I first whipped up this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something quick yet satisfying. Since then, it's become a staple in our dinner rotation—especially on nights when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

This one-pan wonder is quick, easy, and family-approved. Let me show you exactly why it deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orz

You’re going to love everything about this dish, from the simplicity of the ingredients to the rich, comforting flavor in every bite.

First off, this recipe is wonderfully fast and easy. From prep to plate, you’re looking at about 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but your craving for something cozy isn’t.

It’s also a wallet-friendly option. With just a few affordable pantry staples and some flavorful chicken sausage, you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank.

Versatility is another win. You can switch out the sausage, add in different vegetables, or even make it dairy-free if needed. It's super adaptable based on what you have in your fridge.

And let's not forget the one-pan factor. Fewer dishes means less cleanup—always a plus in my book. Just one skillet and one spoon, and dinner is done.

Next, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

This dish shines because of its simple, flavorful ingredients. They each bring something special to the table, creating a meal that feels elevated but comes together effortlessly.

Orzo is the backbone of this recipe. Though it looks like rice, it’s actually a pasta, and it cooks up beautifully in the same pan with the rest of the ingredients. The starch released as it cooks helps to naturally thicken the sauce, giving the dish its signature creaminess.

Chicken sausage adds a savory, spiced note without the need for extra seasoning. I prefer using a garlic or Italian herb variety, but feel free to use whatever type you enjoy most. It’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly—an ideal protein for weeknight meals.

Garlic and onion provide a fragrant base. When sautéed in olive oil, they infuse the entire dish with a rich, aromatic flavor that feels like it’s been simmering for hours.

Heavy cream and chicken broth come together to form a luscious, silky sauce. The cream adds richness, while the broth lightens it up just enough to keep it from feeling too heavy. If you’re looking to cut calories, you could swap in half-and-half or even whole milk.

You’ll just need a large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a lid to make this dish. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula is perfect for stirring everything together.

How To Make This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Making this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Here’s how it all comes together.

Start by slicing your chicken sausage into rounds and sautéing them in a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil. Let them brown on both sides—this caramelization adds so much flavor.

Once the sausage is nicely golden, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in your diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it softens, then add in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the dry orzo and let it toast slightly in the pan for a minute or two. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor and ensures the orzo doesn’t get mushy later on.

Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and add the cooked sausage back in.

Cover the pan and let everything cook together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of broth or water.

Total cook time is about 25-30 minutes. What you’ll end up with is a rich, creamy pasta dish with perfectly cooked orzo and savory sausage in every bite.

Storage Options

This dish stores surprisingly well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, which means it might taste even better the next day!

If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, and warm over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about creamy chicken sausage orzo is how easy it is to customize. You can make it your own in so many ways.

Swap out the chicken sausage for turkey sausage, kielbasa, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure whatever you use is fully cooked.

Add extra vegetables like baby spinach, kale, or peas. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and fresh.

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative. It won’t be quite as rich, but still incredibly satisfying.

Prefer a little heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or use a spicy chicken sausage for a nice kick.

Don’t be afraid to play around and find your perfect version of this dish. It's a forgiving recipe that welcomes creativity.

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