Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Simple Recipe

December 3, 2025August 7, 2025 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into half-moons

– 1 cup orzo pasta

– 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

– 1 cup heavy cream

Vegetables and Seasonings

– 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 small onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Cooking Essentials

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

In this recipe, I like to keep things simple and fresh. The chicken sausage provides great flavor and protein. The orzo pasta is a fun twist that cooks quickly. You’ll love how it absorbs the chicken broth.

For the veggies, baby spinach and cherry tomatoes add color and nutrients. The onion and garlic give a nice base flavor. I always use fresh garlic for the best taste. The Italian seasoning ties all the flavors together.

Don’t forget the heavy cream! It makes the dish creamy and rich. I find that using low-sodium chicken broth helps balance the creaminess.

You can garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and taste. This dish is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor. Get your ingredients ready, and you’ll see how simple it is to whip up this delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add 1 small diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it for 3-4 minutes. The onion should be soft and fragrant.

3. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 pound of sliced chicken sausage. Cook for 5-6 minutes. Stir often until the sausage is browned.

Cooking the Orzo

1. Stir in 1 cup of orzo pasta. Next, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth.

2. Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Increase the heat until the mixture boils.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The orzo should be tender and absorb most of the broth.

Final Touches

1. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped baby spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.

2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. The spinach should wilt and the tomatoes should warm up.

3. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir everything well to mix the flavors.

4. Serve the orzo skillet right away. Add fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Sauté onion until soft and clear, about 3-4 minutes.

– Add garlic and sausage, cooking until browned, about 6 minutes.

– Stir often to prevent burning.

– Keep the heat steady; too high can burn ingredients.

Flavor Enhancements

– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

– Stir in grated Parmesan for a cheesy kick.

– Garnish with fresh basil for bright flavor.

– Consider fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra taste.

Troubleshooting

– If orzo is mushy, reduce cooking time next time.

– If too dry, add more broth or cream slowly.

– For creaminess, mix in more cream or cheese if needed.

– Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can mix things up with your protein choice. Turkey sausage works great if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based sausage or even chickpeas. They add protein and flavor.

Switching the pasta can also change the dish. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free orzo. You can even substitute with rice or quinoa if you prefer. Each option gives a new texture and taste.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal vegetables can take this dish to a new level. In spring, add fresh peas or asparagus. In summer, zucchini or bell peppers shine. Fall brings squash or kale, while winter can use root veggies like carrots or sweet potatoes. They all add color and nutrition.

Adjusting flavors for the seasons can enhance your meal. Use fresh herbs like basil in summer. In winter, try rosemary or thyme to warm up the dish. A splash of lemon in spring can brighten the flavors, too.

Dietary Modifications

If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free orzo. Many brands offer varieties made from rice or corn. They cook similarly and taste great in this recipe.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a nut-based cream. These alternatives keep the dish creamy while catering to dietary needs. You can still enjoy a rich flavor without the dairy.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, place the orzo skillet in an airtight container. Let it cool before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, the best method is to use the stove. Pour the orzo into a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s heated through. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to avoid dryness.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, the orzo skillet lasts about three days. In the freezer, it can last around three months. Look for signs of spoilage, like off smells or mold. If it smells bad or looks weird, throw it away. Always trust your senses to keep your food safe.

FAQs

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet healthier, you can:

– Use turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage for fewer calories.

– Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative.

– Add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to boost nutrients.

– Use whole grain orzo for added fiber.

These changes help lower calories and increase health benefits without losing flavor. You still get a creamy dish while enjoying better nutrition.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, you can meal prep Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet. Here are some best practices:

– Cook the dish fully and let it cool before storing.

– Divide it into airtight containers for easy serving.

– Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

– Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.

Meal prepping makes weeknight dinners quick and easy.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet?

For side dishes, consider these options:

– A simple green salad with vinaigrette for crunch.

– Garlic bread for a comforting touch.

– Steamed broccoli or asparagus for a fresh flavor.

– Roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.

These sides complement the creamy dish and round out your meal nicely.

This blog post covered a tasty Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can experiment with various proteins and seasonal veggies to match your preferences. Storing leftovers and reheating properly helps keep the dish fresh. With these insights, you can create a dish your family will love. Enjoy the cooking process and feel free to get creativ