why make this recipe

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients with rich flavors. It’s not just delicious; it’s also easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal. The blend of chicken sausage, vegetables, and creamy goodness makes it a family favorite.

how to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Ingredients

• 12 oz Chicken sausage
• 2 cloves Garlic
• Zest of 1 Lemon
• 1/2 cup Onion, diced
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
• 1 cup Spinach or kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp Dried thyme
• 2 cups Low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup Orzo pasta
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream

Directions

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Slice the chicken sausage and add it to the pan, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, spinach or kale, thyme, and chicken broth, then bring to a boil.
5. Add orzo pasta and season with black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes, and salt.
6. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until orzo is tender.
7. Stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese, mixing until combined and creamy.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It goes well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cheese if you like it extra creamy.

how to store Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

• For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

variation

You can substitute orzo with rice or quinoa if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you choose.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any cooked sausage you prefer. Italian sausage or smoked sausage would work well.

2. Is there a way to make this dish more vegetarian?
You can omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables and maybe some plant-based protein for added flavor.

3. How do I know when the orzo is cooked?
The orzo will be tender but still have a slight bite to it, similar to pasta. You can taste test after 10 minutes of simmering to see if it’s done.