Description
This creamy chicken sausage orzo combines savory chicken sausage, a rich broth and cream sauce, and tender orzo pasta. The addition of thyme, paprika, and cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety)
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, depending on your sausage flavor)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and mix well.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to try different sausage varieties like spicy Italian or turkey sausage for a flavor twist.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or peas for more nutrition and color.
- Leftovers can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat with extra broth or cream if needed.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
