Irresistible Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

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If you’re craving a comforting, all-in-one dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is the answer. Loaded with juicy chicken sausage, tender orzo, and a luscious cream sauce, it’s a dish that hits all the right notes. It’s hearty yet refined, indulgent without being over-the-top, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

The magic of this skillet meal lies in how seamlessly the ingredients meld. The browned sausage adds a savory depth, while the orzo soaks up all the creamy goodness. Fresh herbs and a touch of garlic round it out, making it taste like something you’d order at a cozy bistro. But here’s the best part—it all comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients for this Irresistible Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

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Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook for 3 minutes or until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Add the orzo to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes, letting the orzo toast lightly—it enhances the nutty flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, until everything is heated through and creamy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot right out of the skillet for the best creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and garlic or use a spicy variety of chicken sausage for an extra kick.

Can I use a different pasta instead of orzo?

Yes! Small pastas like ditalini or even couscous can be substituted, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it creamy.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can be added during the simmering step for extra nutrition and flavor.

What kind of chicken sausage works best?

Smoked or Italian-style chicken sausage pairs especially well, but any variety you enjoy will do.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stirring regularly and ensuring enough liquid is in the pan will help prevent the orzo from sticking or burning during cooking.

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