A creamy, easy one-pan meal that cooks in about 25 minutes.
introduction
This One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage is quick and simple. It mixes orzo, sliced chicken sausage, broccoli, garlic, and parmesan into a creamy skillet meal. If you like quick creamy pasta dinners, see this similar option: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Fettuccine.
why make this recipe
- It cooks in one pan and saves time on cleanup.
- It blends protein, pasta, and veggies in one dish.
- The family friendly flavors please kids and adults.
- It uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
how to make One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
You cook the sausage first, then add garlic, orzo, and broth. Let the orzo simmer, then add broccoli and cheese. For other easy one-pan ideas, you can check a sheet-pan meal that uses the same simple cooking mindset: Sheet Pan Chicken Pitas with Herby Ranch.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and cook until orzo is tender and broccoli is bright green, about 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
how to serve One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
Serve warm straight from the pan. Top with extra parmesan or a squeeze of lemon if you like. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
how to store One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
Cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or in the microwave until warm.
tips to make One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
- Use chicken broth at a simmer so the orzo cooks evenly.
- Stir the pan once or twice while simmering to prevent sticking.
- Slice sausage thin so it browns quickly.
- If the dish gets thick when cooled, add a little hot broth when reheating.
- For other simple chicken ideas, try this coconut chicken recipe for a different flavor: Brazilian Coconut Chicken.
variation (if any)
- Swap broccoli for spinach or peas.
- Use Italian sausage for a spicier dish.
- Stir in a splash of cream for extra richness.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for more flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use another pasta instead of orzo?
A: Yes. Use small pasta like ditalini, but check cooking time as it may change.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Skip the sausage and add more veggies or a plant-based sausage.
Q: Do I need to pre-cook the sausage?
A: Brown the sliced sausage in the pan first so it gets color and flavor.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It is not ideal to freeze because the texture of orzo and broccoli can change. Refrigerate instead.
Q: How can I make it creamier?
A: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or extra parmesan at the end.
Conclusion
For more ideas and similar recipes, you can read this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet – Eat Yourself Skinny: Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet – Eat Yourself Skinny. Another good one-pan take is One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo – Eating Bird Food: One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo – Eating Bird Food. If you want one more version to compare, see One Pan Chicken Sausage Orzo – onebalancedlife.com: One Pan Chicken Sausage Orzo – onebalancedlife.com.
One-Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 pieces chicken sausages, sliced Use Italian sausage for a spicier flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Can be swapped with spinach or peas.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth Use simmering broth for even cooking of orzo.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Stir in extra for creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
Method
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add orzo, chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in broccoli and cook until orzo is tender and broccoli is bright green, about 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.
