Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is your new speedy weeknight hero—lustrous, cheesy orzo tossed with slices of spicy Italian chicken sausage, sweet pops of spinach, and a cozy, coconut-kissed sauce that cooks up all in one pan. Each bite melds comforting flavors with just the right amount of heat, promising a creamy, soul-satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again. Whether you want dinner on the table in under 30 minutes or simply can’t resist a dish that feels special without the fuss, this skillet stunner has you covered.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing in this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is fussy or hard to find, and each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to bring a burst of flavor, hearty texture, or vibrant color to the mix. Think of this as your culinary all-star lineup for perfect skillet magic.

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the sausage beautifully.
• Spicy Italian chicken sausage: Packs a flavorful punch with mild heat and savory depth.
• Garlic: Sautéed until fragrant, it infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and warmth.
• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and soaks up all the creamy, bold flavors.
• Low sodium chicken broth: The foundation of the sauce, keeping everything moist and flavorful without extra saltiness.
• Full-fat canned coconut milk (or heavy cream): Brings luscious creaminess with a subtle hint of sweetness; choose based on your mood!
• Low sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami-rich backbone that deepens the sauce.
• Onion powder: Lends sweet, rounded flavor to balance the heat and richness.
• Red pepper flakes: Gives a gentle, lingering heat that keeps you reaching for another bite.
• Black pepper: Brightens the flavor and adds just enough sharpness.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out all the best notes in each component.
• Fresh or dried thyme: Contributes fresh, aromatic complexity that sings with the sausage and orzo.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the orzo for dazzling creaminess and savory, nutty notes.
• Baby spinach leaves: Adds gorgeous color and a gentle bite, wilting perfectly into the finished dish.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Garlic

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it’s well browned and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 7 minutes. Once those edges are nice and golden, sprinkle in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds—it becomes beautifully aromatic, but be quick so it doesn’t burn!

Step 2: Toast the Orzo

Sprinkle the dry orzo right into the skillet, letting it mingle and toast alongside the sausage and garlic for about one minute. This simple step gives your orzo an irresistible nutty taste and an extra layer of flavor that makes this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet so craveworthy.

Step 3: Deglaze and Add Creamy Elements

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring well to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor. Add the coconut milk (or heavy cream), soy sauce, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Mix everything together, letting those seasonings start to infuse the orzo and sausage with their magic.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let the orzo simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the orzo from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the orzo is soft and most of the liquid is absorbed, creating a rich, creamy base for your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Parmesan

Add the baby spinach and stir until wilted; it only takes a minute or two. Then, fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese for a final creamy flourish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. All that’s left is to serve up a spoonful of this skillet comfort and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top, maybe a few more red pepper flakes, and a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper. Torn fresh basil or a little extra thyme can add an inviting herbal aroma that makes your Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet look and smell irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pair this skillet with a simple green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette, or some roasted asparagus for contrast. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce—because you won’t want to leave a drop behind!

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning the orzo into shallow bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil and a fancy parmesan curl on top. Or, serve it family-style straight from the skillet at the table, letting everyone dig into the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet together for a relaxed, communal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. The Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet will keep beautifully for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or easy grab-and-go lunches.

Freezing

If you’d like to store this dish longer, scoop individual portions into freezer-safe containers. The coconut milk version freezes particularly well, but just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. It will stay tasty for up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or water to loosen the sauce as you warm it gently over medium heat on the stove or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval. This helps restore that signature creamy texture of the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in another cooked sausage such as turkey, pork, or even a plant-based variety. Just be mindful of spice levels and cook time, but any flavorful sausage will shine in this skillet.

Does the coconut milk make the dish taste coconutty?

The coconut milk here gives creaminess and a faint sweetness, but it’s subtle—parmesan and seasonings balance out the coconut flavor and keep the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet feeling savory, not tropical.

Can I substitute a different green for spinach?

Yes, baby kale or arugula work well too; just roughly chop before adding and allow extra time for them to cook down if needed. You can mix in peas or asparagus for even more color and crunch.

Is this dish gluten free?

Traditional orzo is made from wheat, so it does contain gluten. Look for gluten-free orzo options at specialty stores or substitute short-grain rice for a similar creamy effect.

How spicy is the finished dish?

It’s pleasantly warm but not overwhelming. The red pepper flakes and spicy sausage add a gentle heat, but you can adjust those to your liking, making the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet as mild or fiery as you want.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is the kind of comfort food you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for any night of the week. With just one pan and simple steps, you’re only minutes away from a homemade meal packed with flavor, creaminess, and a touch of spice. Give it a try and share the joy at your own table!

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