Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe | Hearty & Delicious

I just made this creamy chicken sausage and orzo skillet, and it has instantly become a weeknight favorite. It’s one of those comforting, hearty meals that comes together in a single pan, which makes cleanup so easy. The flavors from the spicy sausage, garlic, and creamy sauce are just incredible.

I was amazed at how quickly it all came together, making it perfect for a busy evening when I wanted something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. You could also enjoy a rich, cheesy side like Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin Recipe alongside this skillet for a decadent touch.

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a dish packed with flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is important.

1 tbsp olive oil – Used for browning the sausage and sautéing the garlic, creating a flavorful base.
12 oz spicy Italian chicken sausage, sliced – Provides lean protein and a spicy kick. You can use mild if you prefer less heat.
6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch. Be generous for a more aromatic dish.
1 cup dry orzo – This small, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce and flavors of the dish.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – This is the primary cooking liquid for the orzo. Using low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness.
1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk – This is the secret to a rich, creamy sauce without using dairy. You can also use heavy cream.
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – Adds a surprising depth of savory, umami flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1 tsp onion powder – Provides a subtle, savory background note.
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Adjust this to your personal spice preference. Use less for a milder dish or more for an extra kick.
1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
1/4 tsp salt – A starting point for seasoning; you can adjust to taste at the end.
1 tsp fresh or dried thyme – Adds an earthy, aromatic element that pairs beautifully with the chicken sausage.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – For the best results, grate your own cheese. It melts much better and provides a nuttier flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
2 cups baby spinach leaves – Use fresh spinach, not frozen, as it wilts perfectly into the sauce without adding excess water.

Note: These ingredient quantities will yield approximately four servings. You could also pair this meal with a tender, juicy Roast Beef Tenderloin Recipe for a more elaborate dinner spread.

Variations

One of the best things about this skillet recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs or simply to use what you have on hand.

Go Dairy-Free: To make this recipe completely dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with your favorite vegan Parmesan alternative. Be sure to use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Change the Protein: If you don’t have chicken sausage, feel free to use sliced chicken breast, ground turkey, or even ground beef. For a meatless version, you can leave out the protein entirely or add chickpeas.
Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional content by adding more vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, chopped asparagus, or even sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious additions.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You could also use a hot Italian sausage or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.

Cooking Time

This dish comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

You only need a few basic kitchen tools to create this one-pan meal.

Large Skillet: A 12-inch skillet is ideal for cooking everything together without overcrowding the pan.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the sausage and mincing the garlic.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you have the right proportions for a perfect sauce.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the ingredients and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Following these simple steps will give you a delicious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. This process is designed to build layers of flavor from start to finish.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Garlic

First, heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Toast the Orzo and Add Liquids

Next, add the dry orzo directly into the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Toast it for about a minute, stirring constantly. This step adds a nutty flavor to the pasta. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the coconut milk, soy sauce, onion powder, red pepper flakes, pepper, salt, and thyme.

Step 3: Simmer the Orzo

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. The orzo is ready when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 4: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Once the orzo is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. They will wilt quickly in the heat of the dish. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Give it a final taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this a few times, I’ve discovered a few tricks that take it to the next level. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final dish.

I found that letting the sausage get extra crispy adds a wonderful texture that contrasts with the creamy orzo. Don’t be afraid to let it brown well.
I recommend using full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest, creamiest sauce. The light version just doesn’t provide the same luxurious consistency.
After adding the cheese, I like to squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top. It brightens up all the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.
Don’t skip toasting the orzo. I tried it once without this step, and the flavor was noticeably flatter. It only takes an extra minute and is well worth it.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple touches can elevate its presentation. Serve it warm, straight from the skillet. For a bit of extra color and freshness, garnish with fresh parsley or more fresh thyme. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce in the bowl. You can also pair it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to round out the meal.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for this recipe, based on four servings.

Calories: 358 kcal
Protein: 27 g
Carbohydrates: 28.9 g
Fat: 16.2 g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly.

Storing

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The orzo will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits, so the texture will be thicker the next day.

Freezing

Freezing is not highly recommended for this recipe, as the texture of the creamy sauce and pasta can change upon thawing. If you must freeze it, the dish may become slightly grainy once reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the skillet over low heat to loosen the sauce. Gently warm the orzo, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to add this skillet meal to your regular dinner rotation.

Quick and Easy: This entire meal comes together in just one pan and is ready in about 25 minutes. The minimal prep and cleanup make it a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor: From the spicy sausage and garlic to the creamy, savory sauce, every bite is loaded with delicious, complex flavors that taste like they took hours to develop.
Highly Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Swap the protein, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to make it your own.
Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting and hearty dish that appeals to both adults and kids. You can easily adjust the spice for younger palates by using mild sausage and omitting the red pepper flakes.

Ash Tyrrell