Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet: A Delicious & Easy One-Pan Meal

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi: Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian trattoria with every single bite! Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi, succulent pieces of chicken, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that will have you craving more. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Gnocchi, those delightful little dumplings, have a rich history rooted in Northern Italy, dating back to Roman times. Originally made from semolina or bread, potatoes were later incorporated, giving them the light and airy texture we adore today. While variations exist across different regions, the comforting nature of gnocchi remains universal.

What makes Creamy Chicken Gnocchi so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The soft gnocchi melts in your mouth, complemented by the savory chicken and the richness of the cream sauce. It’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and cheeses. Plus, it’s a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. This recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite, offering a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (about 4 links)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained (like Rotel)
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken Sausage and Vegetables

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to focus on browning the sausage and softening those veggies. This is where the flavor foundation of our dish really begins to build.

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Grab a large skillet (at least 12 inches) and place it over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute or two. You want it shimmering, but not smoking.
2. Brown the Chicken Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Browning the sausage adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to skip! Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this point; it will finish cooking later.
3. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – those are packed with flavor!
4. Add the Garlic and Bell Peppers: Add the minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped yellow bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bell peppers are slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be fragrant, not bitter.

Bringing it All Together: Cooking the Orzo

Now comes the fun part – adding the tomatoes, orzo, and broth to create a delicious, saucy skillet meal. This is where everything starts to meld together and become incredibly flavorful.

1. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and the can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained). The green chilies add a nice little kick, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you can use regular diced tomatoes instead.
2. Add the Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo pasta. Make sure the orzo is evenly distributed in the skillet.
3. Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Season with Spices: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but you can’t take it away!
5. Return the Sausage: Return the browned chicken sausage to the skillet.

Simmering to Perfection

This is the waiting game, but trust me, it’s worth it! Simmering allows the orzo to cook perfectly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the sauce and sausage.

1. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
2. Check for Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the orzo for doneness. It should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If the orzo is still too firm or there’s too much liquid, continue to simmer for a few more minutes, checking frequently. If the orzo is cooked but there’s still too much liquid, you can remove the lid and let the excess liquid evaporate.

Serving and Garnishing

Almost there! Now it’s time to plate up this delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet and add the finishing touches that will make it truly irresistible.

1. Remove from Heat: Once the orzo is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Let it Rest: Let the skillet sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Serve: Spoon the Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet into bowls.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley. The Parmesan adds a salty, savory note, while the parsley adds a pop of freshness and color.
5. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy! This dish is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize this recipe to your liking:

• Sausage Options: Feel free to use different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage (sweet or hot), chorizo, or even turkey sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or kale. If using spinach or kale, add it during the last few minutes of cooking so it wilts but doesn’t become mushy.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or feta. Add the cheese during the last few minutes of cooking so it melts and becomes gooey.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or heavy cream at the end of cooking.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as chickpeas or white beans, for a vegetarian version.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for longer storage. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Protein: 25-35 grams
• Fat: 20-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams

Why This Recipe Works:

This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a winner for several reasons:

• One-Pan Meal: It’s a complete meal cooked in just one skillet, which means less cleanup!
• Flavorful: The combination of chicken sausage, vegetables, tomatoes, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
• Versatile: It’s easy to customize with different types of sausage, vegetables, and cheeses.
• Quick and Easy: It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: It uses affordable ingredients that are readily available.

Troubleshooting:

Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to fix them:

• Orzo is Sticking: If the orzo is sticking to the bottom of the skillet, add a little more chicken broth and stir more frequently.
• Sauce is Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and let the excess liquid evaporate. You can also stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken the sauce.
• Sausage is Overcooked: If the sausage is overcooked, remove it from the skillet earlier and add it back in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Vegetables are Mushy: If the vegetables are mushy, add them later in the cooking process

  

  Conclusion:

  This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a weeknight savior, a flavor explosion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one pan. I truly believe this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation, and here’s why: it’s incredibly quick to prepare, requiring minimal chopping and cleanup. The combination of savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

  But the real magic lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip up this dish. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve made this skillet countless times, and it always delivers.

  Looking for serving suggestions? This Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is fantastic on its own, but you can also elevate it with a few simple additions. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty note that complements the other flavors beautifully. A dollop of creamy ricotta cheese provides a cool and refreshing contrast. For a touch of acidity, squeeze a wedge of lemon over the finished dish. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of pesto adds a burst of herbaceousness.

  Want to explore some variations? Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites. Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes would all be delicious additions. You can also experiment with different types of sausage. Italian sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage would work well. If you’re looking to add a bit of heat, try incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.

  Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

  I’m confident that you’ll love this Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet as much as I do. It’s a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

  So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of this one-pan wonder. I’m so excited for you to try it!

  And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What were your favorite additions? Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag] so I can see your culinary creations. Let’s spread the word about this amazing Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet and inspire others to get cooking! Happy cooking!

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  Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet: A Delicious & Easy One-Pan Meal

  A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring orzo pasta, chicken sausage, and your favorite vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

  Prep Time10

  Cook Time20

  Total Time35

  Category: Dinner

  Yield: 6 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  Yields 6 servings
  Prep time 10 mins
  Cook time 20 mins

  Ingredients

  1 tablespoon olive oil
  1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
  1 cup chopped onion
  2 cloves garlic, minced
  1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  4 cups chicken broth
  1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups uncooked orzo pasta
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

  Instructions

  “`html

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
  3. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute more.
  5. Add orzo and chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until orzo is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Stir in spinach and Parmesan cheese and cook until spinach is wilted.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve immediately.

  “`

  Notes

  Prep Time
  10 mins
  Cook Time
  20 mins
  Total Time
  30 mins

  Ingredients

  1 tablespoon olive oil
  1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
  1/2 cup chopped onion
  2 cloves garlic, minced
  1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
  2 cups chicken broth
  1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained
  1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  Salt and pepper to taste

  Instructions

  Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
  Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until orzo is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.
  Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  Return sausage to the skillet and heat through.
  Serve immediately.

  Notes

  For a spicier dish, use hot Italian chicken sausage.
  Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.