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Chicken Sausage Orzo

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo: Quick Comfort Food Magic

A delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo that combines creamy textures with flavorful chicken sausage for a perfect dinner in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Skillet
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to use any cooking oil as a substitute.
  • 1 pound Chicken Sausage Cheddar, feta, turkey, or plant-based varieties work well.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be substituted for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresher is better, but garlic powder is a good alternative.
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta or rice for a gluten-free option.
  • 3 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • ½ cup Heavy Cream Substituting with Greek yogurt provides a lighter alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can elevate the flavor further.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can enhance complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for best results.
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper For best results, use freshly cracked pepper.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Feta cheese gives it a Mediterranean twist.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 2 cups Spinach/Kale Peppy greens for additional nutrition.
  • ½ cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Imparts a delightful Mediterranean flair.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes For those craving a spicy kick.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 3-5 minutes until browned and fragrant. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
  2. Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  3. Add 1 cup of orzo to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook for about 1 minute until slightly golden. This enhances the overall flavor.
  4. Pour in 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scrape any browned bits. Add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until orzo absorbs most liquid.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Return chicken sausage to skillet and stir to combine.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, additional cheese, and lemon zest. Serve warm straight from the pan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftover Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, use an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

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