This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a cozy, one-pan meal that combines tender orzo pasta with flavorful chicken sausage and colorful veggies. It’s quick and satisfying!
I love how everything cooks together and the flavors blend so nicely. Plus, you get to skip washing lots of dishes—win-win! Who doesn’t enjoy a simple dinner night? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: This is the star of the dish! Look for Italian-flavored varieties for extra seasoning. If you’re vegetarian, plant-based sausages can work well too. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you want to keep it simple.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo gives a nice texture and absorbs flavors well. If you’re out, you could substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice, but cooking times will vary.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add juicy bursts of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work. Just drain them before adding to avoid too much moisture.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. You could easily swap in kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to cook them a little longer, as they are tougher than spinach.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a lovely creaminess and flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
How Do I Cook the Orzo Perfectly?
Cooking orzo is simple, but it can be tricky to get it just right. Toasting it first enhances its flavor and keeps it from getting mushy. Always stir it during this stage!
- After adding orzo to the skillet, keep it moving for 1-2 minutes to toast.
- Once you add the broth, bring it to a low simmer and cover the skillet. This will help the orzo cook evenly.
- Check it a couple of minutes early to avoid overcooking. It should be tender yet slightly firm, or “al dente”.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 ½ cups orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 15 minutes cooking everything in the skillet. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausage is browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Toast the Orzo:
Now, it’s time to add the orzo pasta to the onion and garlic in the skillet. Stir it frequently for about 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the orzo. This step enhances the flavor of the pasta!
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth, and give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, cover the skillet and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Incorporate the Vegetables and Sausage:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, the browned chicken sausage, and the fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly. This adds a lovely color and freshness to your dish!
6. Season and Add Cheese:
Now, season your skillet with salt and black pepper to taste. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in until it’s melted and well combined with the other ingredients. It adds a creamy goodness that ties everything together!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh finishing touch. Serve your delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet warm, right from the skillet, and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet!
Can I Substitute the Chicken Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor or dietary option, you can use turkey sausage, plant-based sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for each type.
How Can I Customize the Vegetables?
You can easily tailor the vegetables to your liking! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms—just make sure to sauté them briefly in the skillet to soften before adding the orzo.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the orzo pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of gluten-free pasta you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to moisten it again.