Description
A creamy and comforting skillet orzo dish with chicken sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta
- 1 cup spinach or kale, loosely packed (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Extra grated cheese and lemon zest, for serving
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove sausage to a bowl and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the orzo to the pan and toast for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the browned sausage to the skillet.
- Add optional spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes if using.
- Heat just until everything is warmed through and the greens have wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt levels. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian