This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal that’s quick to make! With juicy chicken sausage, tender orzo, and colorful veggies, it’s a feast for your eyes and tummy.
I love how easy it is to whip up after a long day. Just throw everything in the skillet and enjoy! Plus, the leftovers make for a yummy lunch the next day! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: This adds a savory protein to the dish. You can substitute it with turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even use vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meatless version.
Orzo Pasta: I love using orzo because of its small, rice-like shape. If you don’t have orzo, you can swap it with rice (adjust cooking times) or small pasta like ditalini.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works too. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. It’ll keep the flavors bright!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great nutrients and color. You can use kale or chard as an alternative, but be sure to chop them well as they are tougher than spinach.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Turning Mushy?
Cooking orzo right can be tricky! It’s all about timing and water ratio. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by toasting the orzo in a bit of oil; this enhances the flavor and reduces stickiness.
- Add chicken broth, ensuring there’s enough liquid to absorb—just like cooking rice.
- Keep an eye on cooking time; it typically takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and turn off the heat when it’s al dente, as it will continue cooking off the heat.
Following these steps will leave you with tender, flavorful orzo that’s the star of your dish!
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are nicely browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, just until it becomes fragrant.
3. Toast the Orzo:
Now, stir in the orzo pasta and toast it for 1-2 minutes. This helps to enhance its flavor and coat it with all the delicious oils in the skillet. Keep stirring regularly.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook while stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Spinach and Seasoning:
Next, add the chopped spinach, the browned chicken sausage, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine, and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
6. (Optional) Add Cheese:
If you want to make it extra creamy, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese at this stage. It will melt and add wonderful richness to the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet with fresh chopped parsley. Serve it warm and enjoy your hearty, flavorful one-pan meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meatless meal. Each type will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Orzo Pasta?
If you don’t have orzo on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini, or even rice if you adjust the cooking time accordingly. Just be sure to check the package instructions for cooking times!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative. You can also add more veggies for extra flavor and nutrition!