If you’re craving a meal that combines rich flavors, comforting textures, and effortless cooking cleanup, you will absolutely love this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe. This dish brings together tender Italian chicken sausage, creamy orzo, and vibrant greens all cooked together in one skillet, making it a weeknight favorite you’ll want to make again and again. It’s fast, flavorful, and strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, delivering a comforting yet light dinner that your whole family will enjoy. Let me walk you through how this recipe comes together so you can savor every bite with ease!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe so satisfying. From the fragrant garlic to the velvety coconut milk, every element contributes to a harmonious dish.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich base to sauté your aromatics and sausage, adding a subtle fruity depth.
- Chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a delicate crunch that mellows as it cooks.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the dish with its unmistakable savory aroma and flavor.
- Mild Italian chicken sausage: Delivers juicy, well-seasoned protein with a hint of traditional Italian herbs.
- Dry orzo: The tiny pasta cooks perfectly in the liquid, soaking up all the goodness for a creamy texture.
- Chicken broth or bone broth: Acts as the cooking liquid and infuses the orzo and sausage with deep, meaty flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the savory profile of the dish without overpowering.
- Sea salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the best in each ingredient.
- Full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and richness, making the orzo silky smooth.
- Freshly grated parmesan: Incorporates an irresistible umami touch and melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Baby spinach: Brings vibrant color, freshness, and a mild earthiness while wilting into the creamy orzo.
- Crushed red pepper (optional): A pinch adds a lovely spicy kick for those who like a bit of heat.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Brightens the dish with herbaceous notes and a beautiful aroma.
How to Make One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Let them cook together for about five minutes, stirring often, until the onion softens and becomes translucent while the garlic releases its intoxicating aroma. This foundation layer is crucial because it sets the savory tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Sausage
Next, toss the chunks of mild Italian chicken sausage into the skillet with the softened aromatics. Sauté them for about 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown beautifully and develop a lightly crispy exterior while locking in juicy flavors. This step brings a satisfying heartiness and a touch of that classic Italian flair.
Step 3: Toast the Orzo
Add the dry orzo directly into the pan with the sausage and aromatics. Toss it around for about a minute so the orzo gets lightly toasted. This quick toasting step enhances the nutty flavor of the pasta and helps prevent it from becoming mushy once you add the liquids. It’s a tiny step that makes a big difference!
Step 4: Simmer the Orzo
Pour in the chicken broth along with the coconut milk or heavy cream, and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is perfectly tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquid.
Step 5: Finish with Greens and Cheese
Stir in the baby spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese just before serving. The spinach will quickly wilt into the warm orzo, adding a beautiful green contrast and fresh, mild flavor. The parmesan melts into the creamy liquid, enriching the dish with its savory, salty goodness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then get ready to plate!
How to Serve One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing elevates this dish from simple to stunning. Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant burst that compliments the Italian flavors perfectly. Sprinkle additional parmesan on top for extra cheesy goodness. If you enjoy a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a warm kick that balances the creamy orzo beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe is so complete and flavorful, simple sides work best. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli also pair wonderfully, adding complementary textures and nutrients without competing with the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining or family dinners, serve the orzo in warm shallow bowls, garnished with basil and parmesan right at the table. You could also spoon individual portions into edible parmesan bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun, eye-catching presentation. A drizzle of good olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds an extra layer of freshness everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully, so storing leftovers is easy. Transfer any extra portions into airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners on busier days.
Freezing
If you want to keep this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe on hand for longer, freeze it in appropriate containers. Keep in mind that the texture of the spinach may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious. For best quality, consume frozen meals within 2 months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry to revive the creamy consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through, but stovetop reheating helps maintain a better texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mild Italian chicken sausage is recommended for a balanced, lean option, you can use pork, turkey, or even spicy sausage depending on your taste preferences. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure it’s cooked through.
Is it possible to substitute coconut milk with something else?
If you prefer to avoid coconut milk, heavy cream is a fantastic substitute that adds richness without altering flavor too much. For a lighter option, you could also try half-and-half or full-fat milk, but the texture may be less creamy.
Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, replace the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegetable broth. Swap parmesan for a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to maintain that savory, cheesy flavor.
What if I don’t have orzo—what can I use instead?
Orzo is great because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, but you can substitute other small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, couscous, or even rice. Just note that cooking times might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
How spicy does the dish get with crushed red pepper? Should I add it?
The crushed red pepper is optional and adds a gentle heat that complements the creamy, savory nature of the dish. Start with a small pinch if you’re unsure, and add more to taste. It’s an easy way to add a little excitement if you enjoy spicy food!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s both quick and bursting with flavor, this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines ease of preparation with a rich, comforting taste that feels like a warm hug on your plate. I encourage you to give it a try and see how effortlessly it can become a new family favorite. Happy cooking!
Print
One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring Italian chicken sausage, tender orzo, and vibrant baby spinach, all finished with creamy coconut milk and parmesan for a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pan Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 12 oz package mild Italian chicken sausage (4 sausages), cut into 1” chunks
- 2 cups dry orzo
- 4 cups chicken broth or chicken bone broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup canned full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 5 oz baby spinach
- Crushed red pepper for serving (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking and stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Cook Chicken Sausage: Add the chicken sausage pieces to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the sausage is golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
- Toast Orzo: Stir in the dry orzo, tossing it in the pan for 1 minute to lightly toast it and enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and ½ cup of coconut milk (or heavy cream). Season with ¼ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the baby spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy orzo mixture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green option.
- Using bone broth enhances flavor and adds extra nutrients.
- For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and omit parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Make sure to cut the sausage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Simmering with the lid on helps the orzo cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
