Go Back
In the realm of weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the enticing appeal of a comforting, creamy pasta. Enter Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Delight, a dish that masterfully combines the rich flavors of chicken sausage with the delightful texture of orzo pasta, all enveloped in a luscious heavy cream sauce. This recipe doesn't just promise satisfaction; it delivers a culinary experience that is both heartwarming and indulgent, making it a go-to choice for busy families and anyone seeking a quick yet delicious meal.

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo

Dive into the cozy flavors of Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Delight, a quick and comforting weeknight meal that brings everyone together. This dish features tender orzo pasta enveloped in a rich cream sauce, perfectly complemented by savory chicken sausage and fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes. Easy to customize, it takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy nights. Elevate your family dinner with this delicious recipe that balances indulgence and nutrition.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken sausage, sliced (Italian or your favorite flavor)

1 cup orzo pasta

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup baby spinach

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra kick)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until it releases a fragrant aroma.

    Cook the Sausage: Introduce the sliced chicken sausage into the skillet, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned and heated through, approximately 5-6 minutes.

      Add Orzo and Broth: Stir in the orzo pasta along with the Italian seasoning, allowing the orzo to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. Then pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer.

        Simmer Together: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo reaches al dente tenderness. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. If the mixture thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

          Make it Creamy: Once the orzo has cooked, stir in the heavy cream, halved cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are heated through.

            Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy goodness!

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                Presentation Tips: Consider serving the orzo in shallow bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and spinach to shine through. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top will enhance the visual appeal!