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Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: A One-Pan Meal

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A creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet that's a one-pan meal, perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with savory flavors from the chicken sausage, creamy cheese, and tender orzo pasta. Easy to make and fully customizable.

Ingredients

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)

Optional Add-Ins: 1 cup spinach or kale, ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For Garnishing: Fresh parsley, chopped, Extra grated cheese, Lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, until lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese (or feta if using). Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine. If adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, mix them in at this step.
  5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can swap the heavy cream for Greek yogurt to make it lighter.
  • If you're looking for more veggies, try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat leftovers by adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/creamy-chicken-sausage-orzo-a-one-pan-meal/