Hearty, creamy, and full of flavor—this chicken sausage orzo skillet is the ultimate comfort food made in just one pan.
It’s cozy, customizable, and perfect for weeknights when you want a warm, satisfying dinner without a sink full of dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One skillet = fewer dishes (your future self will thank you!)
Ultra creamy & cheesy without being heavy
Packed with protein from chicken sausage
Quick 30-minute meal made with pantry staples
Versatile add-ins for greens, spice, or Mediterranean flair
Ingredient Highlights
For the Orzo Skillet:
Chicken sausage – Sliced and browned for flavor (cheddar, feta, or your fave)
Orzo pasta – A rice-shaped pasta that cooks right in the skillet
Onion & garlic – Aromatics that build the savory base
Chicken broth – Adds richness and helps cook the orzo
Heavy cream or Greek yogurt – Creamy finish with flexibility
Cheddar or feta cheese – Melts in for tangy, cheesy goodness
Dried thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper – Classic seasonings to round it all out
Optional Add-Ins:
Spinach or kale – Stir in for extra greens
Sun-dried tomatoes – For Mediterranean flair
Red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle kick
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley – Adds a bright finish
Lemon zest – Lifts everything with citrusy aroma
Extra cheese – Always welcome
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use a nonstick or stainless steel skillet to prevent sticking as the orzo cooks.
Stir the orzo occasionally as it simmers to avoid clumping or burning.
Want it lighter? Swap heavy cream for plain Greek yogurt after cooking (off heat).
Add greens like spinach or kale during the last minute for a nutritional boost.
If using feta, skip cheddar and opt for sun-dried tomatoes + spinach for balance.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3–5 minutes until browned.
Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook Aromatics and Toast Orzo
In the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add orzo and toast it for about 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Step 3: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the brown bits from the pan.
Season with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Make it Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese.
Mix until melted and creamy. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet.
Add any extras like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes now.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and top with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and extra cheese if desired.
Serve warm and dig in!
What to Serve It With
A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread
A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Top with a fried egg for brunch vibes
Variations & Substitutions
Dairy-free? Use coconut milk or unsweetened oat milk and skip cheese.
No orzo? Try couscous or small pasta like ditalini (adjust liquid & timing).
Low-carb option – Replace orzo with cauliflower rice and reduce broth.
Spicy version – Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
Different proteins – Swap chicken sausage for shrimp, bacon, or grilled chicken.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen.
Freezer – Not recommended; the cream and orzo texture won’t hold well.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, use small pasta shapes like elbows or ditalini, but adjust liquid and cook time.
What’s the best kind of chicken sausage to use?
Choose one with a flavor that complements your cheese—cheddar, feta, garlic herb, or sun-dried tomato varieties work great.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—use a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms as the protein.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for cream?
Yes, stir it in off heat at the end to avoid curdling—it adds creaminess with less fat.
Can I use pre-cooked orzo?
No—this recipe depends on cooking the orzo in broth to absorb all the flavor.
How can I add more veggies?
Mix in chopped spinach, kale, or even broccoli florets near the end of cooking.
What if my orzo sticks to the pan?
Add a splash of broth and gently stir—it should loosen up as it finishes cooking.
Final Thoughts
This chicken sausage orzo skillet is everything I love in a weeknight meal—easy, hearty, flexible, and so creamy you’d never guess it’s a 30-minute dish.
Whether you stick with the base recipe or load it with your favorite extras, it’s the kind of meal you’ll crave again and again. One pan, endless possibilities!
