There is something delightfully comforting about a dish that effortlessly combines creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors all in one bowl, and this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe does exactly that. From the tender orzo pasta to the slightly spicy chicken sausage, lush cream sauce, and bright pops of green peas, every bite bursts with warmth and richness. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress friends, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simple ingredients and exciting flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together to create its signature taste and texture. Each element is crucial, whether adding a savory note, creating silkiness, or bringing freshness and color.
- 8 oz orzo pasta: The star grain that cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage to perfection.
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced: Packed with flavor and a lean protein to keep the dish hearty yet light.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings a sweet, aromatic foundation to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Elevates the overall flavor profile with a fragrant punch.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps create the base of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and luxuriously creamy.
- 1 cup frozen peas: For a bright pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to highlight all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds freshness and a beautiful green garnish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo
Begin with a large pot of boiling salted water and cook the orzo just until al dente, making sure it still has a little bite to stand up to the creamy sauce. Drain it and set it aside so it’s ready to be folded in later.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the sliced chicken sausage. Cooking it until browned on both sides brings out intense flavor and creates a lovely texture contrast inside the final dish. Remove the sausage once done to keep it from overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Use the same skillet to soften the diced onion until it turns translucent, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about a minute. This step builds a fragrant base that makes this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream along with the frozen peas. Cooking everything together until the peas are heated through infuses the sauce with flavor and gives a lovely softness that balances the bite of the sausage.
Step 5: Combine Sausage and Orzo
Return the browned sausage to the skillet, then add the drained orzo pasta. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. This allows the orzo to soak up the delicious creamy sauce and distribute the sausage evenly throughout the dish.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and blends into the sauce. This final touch makes the sauce silky and indulgent. Season with salt and pepper to taste, letting your personal preferences shine through in this comforting recipe.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe piping hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. This easy finishing touch adds a fresh note and makes the presentation inviting.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley is a simple and classic garnish that lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of additional Parmesan or even a few chili flakes can introduce a little heat or tang.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad, steamed roasted vegetables, or lightly dressed arugula can offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the orzo and sausage.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and Parmesan. Alternatively, for a crowd-pleasing presentation, garnish with lemon zest to brighten flavors and serve family-style in a large dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness and prevent the cream sauce from spoiling.
Freezing
While freezing creamy dishes can sometimes affect texture, this recipe fares well if frozen in a sealed container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps the dish light, you can substitute with turkey, pork, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your taste and dietary preferences.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook components like the orzo and sausage ahead, but for the creamiest and freshest experience, it’s best to assemble and finish the dish just before serving.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the type of chicken sausage you choose. If you like a little kick, opt for sausage with added spices or chilies; otherwise, it’s mild and family-friendly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Portion it into containers for ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug, packed with flavor and super comforting, you have to try this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and the kind of meal that will have you coming back for seconds. Don’t wait to make this delicious dish part of your recipe rotation—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken sausage orzo is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender orzo pasta with savory chicken sausage, sweet peas, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and packed with hearty, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Orzo and Pasta
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) orzo pasta
Protein and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Vegetables
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup frozen peas
Cheese and Seasoning
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Orzo: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas, cooking until the peas are heated through and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Combine Sausage and Orzo: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then add in the drained orzo, stirring everything to combine thoroughly.
- Melt in Parmesan and Season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken sausage orzo hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- Orzo can overcook quickly; watch closely to achieve perfect al dente texture.
- Use chicken sausage with your preferred flavor profile—mild, spicy, or herbed—to customize the dish.
- Frozen peas can be substituted with fresh peas when in season for a sweeter taste.
- Parmesan cheese adds depth but can be adjusted based on dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
