Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is the ultimate comfort food that delivers everything you crave in a single skillet: tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, a dreamy cream sauce, and a medley of herbs and cheese to tie it all together. This dish is a standout for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Each bite layers creamy richness, robust sausage flavor, and satisfying textures in a way that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become one of your most requested dinners!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is how a handful of simple, well-chosen ingredients work together to create such big, bold flavor. Every component has a role—from building depth in the sauce to adding vibrant color—so choose quality ingredients for the tastiest results.
Olive oil: Provides a golden base for sautéing, adding subtle richness right from the start.
Chicken sausage: The flavorful star—choose cheddar-studded, classic, or a bolder variety to match your cravings.
Onion: Sautéed until sweet and tender, onion forms the heart of the aromatic base.
Garlic: Just a couple of cloves bring warmth and depth that permeate the whole dish.
Orzo pasta: Tiny rice-shaped pasta that absorbs flavor beautifully while giving the dish its luscious, creamy texture.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Builds big flavor without overwhelming saltiness, letting the other ingredients shine.
Heavy cream (or Greek yogurt): Brings the signature silkiness—use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier twist.
Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herby note that pairs perfectly with both chicken and sausage.
Paprika: A dash brings gentle warmth and a pop of color.
Salt: Pulls all the flavors together and allows each element to shine through.
Black pepper: Offers a snappy finish and just the right amount of spice.
Shredded cheddar cheese (or feta): Melts into the sauce for the ultimate creamy, savory finish; switch it up depending on your sausage choice.
How to Make
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your sliced chicken sausage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, making sure to flip the pieces so that each one gets evenly browned and cooked through. This caramelization boosts the sausage’s savory flavor, creating the savory backbone of your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo. When browned, remove the sausage and set aside—you’ll add it back later for that final comforting touch.
Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base
In the same pan (no need to wash, those tasty browned bits add incredible flavor!), toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic for just one minute. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing! This step infuses the oil and leftover sausage flavor with aromatic sweetness and warmth.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the orzo to the skillet and stir gently for 2 minutes. Toasting the orzo in the flavorful base brings out its nutty undertones and helps ensure every grain stays tender yet distinct, even after soaking up the sauce. You’ll see a tiny bit of color on the pasta—just right!
Step 4: Simmer in Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking. The orzo will plump up, soaking in both broth and the essence of your sautéed ingredients. When the orzo is perfectly tender and much of the liquid is absorbed, you’re ready for the magic finishing touches.
Step 5: Make it Creamy and Flavorful
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt, if you want a lighter sauce), dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix until everything is well combined. This step transforms your skillet into a smooth, fragrant pasta dish that smells and looks irresistible.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar (or feta for a tangier twist) over the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy. Taste and adjust your seasonings if needed. Your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is now ready to be enjoyed—hot, silky, and packed with flavor!
How to Serve
Garnishes
For maximum appeal, scatter some extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dash more paprika over your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo. Not only do these garnishes add a burst of color, they enhance the flavors and make each bowl feel just a little more special.
Side Dishes
Pair Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even garlicky steamed broccoli. These sides balance out the rich, creamy pasta, offering fresh flavors and lovely texture contrasts on the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon the orzo into oven-safe dishes, top with extra cheese, and broil for a bubbly, golden finish. Or serve in hollowed bell peppers or small bread bowls for a fun twist on presentation—this makes Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo extra impressive for guests or special family dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making your next-day Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo even more irresistible. If the orzo has soaked up a lot of sauce, just splash in a bit more broth or cream before reheating.
Freezing
While Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, pressing plastic wrap onto the surface. For optimal texture, try to eat within one month, as the orzo and sauce may thicken upon thawing.
Reheating
To bring your orzo back to its creamy glory, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash or two of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir gently and heat until just piping hot—avoid boiling, which can separate the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the entire dish, cool it, and reheat when ready to serve. Just add a little extra broth or cream when reheating to bring back its signature creaminess.
What other types of sausage work in this recipe?
This dish is flexible! Try turkey sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian version. Switch the cheese to complement your sausage choice—feta with Mediterranean flavors or cheddar for a smoky finish.
Is there a dairy-free option for the cream and cheese?
Absolutely. Use full-fat coconut milk in place of cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative, or simply skip the cheese altogether for a lighter, still delicious result.
How can I add extra veggies to Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo?
Stir in baby spinach, kale, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms when you return the sausage to the pan. These vegetables blend in seamlessly, boosting nutrition and color without much extra effort.
Will regular pasta work if I can’t find gluten-free orzo?
If gluten isn’t a concern, you can use any small pasta shape like ditalini or macaroni. Adjust the cooking time and broth as needed so the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about a skillet full of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo—it brings warmth, flavor, and a sense of home to your table with just a handful of ingredients. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cozy bite!
This creamy chicken sausage orzo combines savory chicken sausage, a rich broth and cream sauce, and tender orzo pasta. The addition of thyme, paprika, and cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:3-4 servings
Ingredients
For the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo:
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety)
½ cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, depending on your sausage flavor)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and mix well.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
Feel free to try different sausage varieties like spicy Italian or turkey sausage for a flavor twist.
For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or peas for more nutrition and color.
Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat with extra broth or cream if needed.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
