The Best Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

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Creamy, cheesy, and comforting with a slight garlicky bite, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is your next weeknight dinner hero. It’s the kind of dish that looks and tastes gourmet but takes just one skillet and about 30 minutes to pull off. Every forkful is loaded with perfectly browned chicken sausage, tender orzo, leafy greens, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce.

Whether you’re cooking for the family or need something quick and cozy for a solo night in, this recipe hits the sweet spot between ease and indulgence. The combination of simple ingredients and rich flavor makes it a recipe you’ll want to keep in heavy rotation.

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What Kind of Chicken Sausage Should I Use?

For this skillet, go with fully cooked smoked chicken sausage. It sears beautifully in the pan and brings deep savory flavor with minimal effort. You can opt for spicy, garlic herb, or even apple-flavored sausage depending on your taste. Just slice it into coins and let the skillet work its magic.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

• Chicken Sausage: Adds smoky, savory flavor and hearty protein.
• Orzo Pasta: This rice-shaped pasta cooks directly in the skillet, soaking up all the flavors.
• Fresh Spinach: Balances the richness with freshness and adds color and nutrients.
• Garlic: Essential for building flavor from the start.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a nutty, salty depth and creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious, velvety sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the orzo with savory flavor as it cooks.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the sausage and sauté the garlic.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings to round out the flavors.

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How To Make the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage in a single layer. Sear until both sides are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it brown.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Pour the dry orzo into the skillet and stir to coat in the garlic oil. Let it toast for 1-2 minutes to develop a slightly nutty flavor.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Orzo

Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Let the spinach wilt, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Sausage and Cheese

Return the seared sausage to the skillet and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is warmed through and creamy.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

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How to Serve and Store the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

This one-skillet wonder is best served hot straight from the pan, with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a crack of black pepper. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s rich enough to stand alone, yet versatile enough to accompany other sides.

Leftovers keep beautifully! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce and warm gently over medium-low heat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking?

Stir the orzo occasionally while it cooks and ensure there’s enough liquid in the skillet. A nonstick or well-seasoned skillet also helps.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Small pastas like ditalini or mini shells can work, but cooking time and liquid amounts may vary slightly.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid watering down the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese for a lighter option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything, let it cool, then refrigerate. Reheat gently with a bit of broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a tightly sealed container. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

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