Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo 

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is a one-pan meal that's both comforting and flavorful. Packed with protein from the chicken sausage and enriched with creamy textures, it's a perfect dish for busy weeknights. The addition of spinach and a hint of thyme elevates the flavors, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced (cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety)

• ½ cup onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or feta, depending on your sausage flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens)

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a Mediterranean twist)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra grated cheese

• Lemon zest (for brightness)

Directions

1. Sauté the Chicken Sausage:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3–5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics & Orzo:
   In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the orzo and toast for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

3. Simmer the Orzo:
   Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo absorbs most of the liquid.

4. Make it Creamy:
   Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar (or feta for a Mediterranean twist). Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken sausage back to the skillet and stir to combine. If adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, mix them in at this step.

5. Finish & Serve:
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 30 g

• Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Fat: 20 g

• Saturated Fat: 8 g

• Cholesterol: 50 mg

• Sodium: 800 mg

• Potassium: 600 mg

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 5 g