This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal that’s quick and easy to make! Juicy chicken sausage pairs perfectly with creamy orzo and fresh veggies.
This dish is so colorful and comforting, you’ll want to whip it up every week! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because cheese makes everything better! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: This is the star of the dish! I love using spicy chicken sausage for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian twist, try a plant-based sausage or even chickpeas!
Orzo Pasta: Orzo adds a lovely texture. If orzo isn’t available, feel free to use rice or another small pasta like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chicken Broth: Broth adds depth to the dish. You can enhance flavor using vegetable broth if you want a vegetarian version. Homemade broth is excellent, but store-bought works just fine!
Spinach: Fresh spinach bursts with nutrients. If you can’t find fresh, frozen spinach is a decent substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
How Do You Cook Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo might seem tricky, but it’s simple! Just keep a few things in mind for perfectly tender orzo.
- After adding the chicken broth, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid, about 10 minutes. If it looks dry but isn’t tender, add a splash more broth or water.
- Don’t overcook! Soft orzo is delightful, but mushy orzo isn’t. Aim for al dente!
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Aromatic Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Extras:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a bit of chopping and stirring, you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned on both sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it smells amazing!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Add the orzo pasta to the skillet. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it, which helps enhance its flavor.
4. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Cook the Orzo:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Incorporate Spinach and Sausage:
After the orzo is cooked, add the fresh spinach and the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet. Give it a good stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will let the spinach wilt and will heat through the sausage.
7. Finish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over top and gently stir to let it melt into the dish. Finally, remove from heat, garnish with the chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your wonderful Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet!
Can I Use Any Type of Chicken Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use sweet, spicy, or even a smoky variety of chicken sausage, depending on your taste preferences. Turkey sausage is also a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor, or even use water in a pinch. Just remember to add a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor if using water.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Replace chicken sausage with a plant-based sausage or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. Enjoy it as a quick meal!