chicken sausage orzo : there’s something irresistibly comforting about a one-pan meal, especially when it involves creamy textures, savory sausage, and the tender bite of orzo pasta. If you’re searching for a satisfying dinner that combines flavor, nutrition, and simplicity, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo checks all the boxes. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for any weeknight.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Made in just one skillet, it eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, saving you time on cleanup without sacrificing taste. Better yet, it’s packed with lean protein, vitamins from spinach, and the creaminess you crave. Plus, orzo—a tiny, rice-shaped pasta—is known for soaking up rich flavors while cooking quickly, making it ideal for busy households. Not familiar with orzo? Check out The Kitchn’s guide to orzo to learn more about this pasta powerhouse.

Want a meal that’s comforting and good for you? This dish is loaded with spinach, which offers a hefty dose of vitamin A, potassium, and iron. It’s a nutrient-dense green that disappears seamlessly into the cream sauce. Curious about spinach’s health benefits? Here’s a full breakdown of what spinach can do for your body.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pan = less mess
Takes just 20–25 minutes from start to finish
Customizable for different diets and spice preferences
Kid-friendly yet packed with adult-approved flavor
Perfect for leftovers or next-day lunch

Ingredients You’ll Need

Core Ingredients

Chicken sausage: Opt for spicy Italian or smoked varieties. You can also sub with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage.
Orzo pasta: This small pasta cooks quickly and gets delightfully creamy as it simmers.
Garlic: Use fresh or jarred minced garlic for convenience.
Chicken broth or stock: Adds savory depth and deglazes the pan.
Coconut milk or heavy cream: The key to making the orzo luscious and creamy.
Soy sauce: A splash enhances umami without overpowering.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts down perfectly and adds color and nutrients.
Parmesan cheese: Adds richness. Sub with vegan cheese if needed. Need guidance? See Minimalist Baker’s vegan cheese guide.

Optional Add-Ins

Sun-dried tomatoes
Sliced mushrooms
Zucchini or asparagus
Fresh herbs: Try thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added aroma

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add sliced chicken sausage and sauté until browned (about 6–7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Toast the orzo
Stir in the dry orzo and toast for 1 minute to boost flavor.
Deglaze and simmer
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then add coconut milk, soy sauce, and your seasonings (onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, thyme). Stir well.
Cover and cook
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
Add greens and cheese
Once orzo is tender and most liquid absorbed, stir in spinach until wilted. Then fold in freshly grated parmesan. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips for Success

Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking
Use low-sodium broth to control salt content
Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level
Orzo should be al dente and not mushy

Meal Prep, Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the sauce
Not ideal for freezing due to texture changes in orzo

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

A crisp side salad (arugula, lemon vinaigrette)
Crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce
Roasted veggies for extra fiber
A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Healthy Variations & Dietary Swaps

Dairy-free: Use coconut milk and swap in vegan parmesan
Vegetarian: Omit sausage or use a plant-based version
Low-carb: Replace orzo with cauliflower rice (adjust liquid accordingly)
Extra veggie-packed: Add broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

Calories: ~358
Protein: 27g
Carbs: 29g
Fat: 16g
Vitamins: A, C, potassium
Fiber: 1.7g
Sodium: ~1100mg (use low-sodium broth to reduce)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Just use coconut milk and vegan cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

What if I don’t have chicken sausage?
Sub with ground chicken, turkey, pork, or even tofu crumbles. You can also go meatless.

Is orzo a rice or pasta?
Orzo is a type of pasta, although it looks like rice. It cooks faster than risotto and has a lighter texture.

Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. It reheats well for 2–3 days, though the orzo may absorb more liquid.

What vegetables go well with this?
Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more complexity.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal. The orzo may become mushy after thawing, but if needed, freeze in individual portions with extra liquid.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and ultra-satisfying meal, this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a must-try. Its one-pan ease makes it perfect for busy nights, while the layers of flavor and customizable ingredients keep it exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time.