Chicken Sausage Orzo is a simple and tasty dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken sausage with tiny, rice-shaped orzo pasta. It’s a comforting meal with just the right mix of protein and carbs, flavored with herbs and a bit of garlic that makes every bite satisfying. The orzo soaks up all the flavors, making it a great choice for a quick but filling dinner.
I love making this dish on weeknights when I want something easy but still a little special. One of my favorite things to add is a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end—it really brightens up the whole meal. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish for the most part, meaning less cleanup, which is always a win in my book.
Serving this with a simple side salad or some steamed green veggies makes it a complete meal that feels balanced and fresh. It’s also a great dish to bring to friends or family because it’s easy to warm up again without losing any flavor. Whenever I make it, I find everyone asking for seconds, which always feels like the best compliment.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: This adds great flavor and protein. If you can’t find chicken sausage, try turkey sausage or even plant-based sausages for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Orzo Pasta: Orzo cooks quickly and soaks up the broth nicely. If you can’t get orzo, small pasta like acini di pepe or couscous can work well too.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They bring a tangy sweetness. If unavailable, try roasting fresh tomatoes or use a handful of cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist.
Spinach: Adds color and nutrition. You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard but adjust cooking time as these are tougher greens.
Chicken Broth: This is the cooking liquid, giving flavor. Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a lighter or vegetarian dish.
How Do I Cook Orzo Perfectly Without It Getting Mushy?
Cooking orzo like risotto is key here. Instead of boiling like regular pasta, slowly add broth and stir often to get creamy, tender but still firm orzo.
- Toast orzo first in the pan for 1-2 minutes to boost flavor.
- Add broth in small amounts (about 1 cup), stirring until absorbed before adding more.
- Keep heat medium to gently simmer and prevent sticking.
- Check texture often after 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
This technique takes patience but gives a comforting texture that’s more like risotto than soup.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet to evenly cook sausage and sauté ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring and scraping bits from the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredients just right.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – for chopping onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.
- Liquid measuring cup – handy for adding broth gradually and accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken sausage for turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter or plant-based option.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end for a fresh, tangy twist.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for more veggies and flavor.
- Use different cheeses, like mozzarella or Pecorino Romano, instead of Parmesan for a unique taste.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Orzo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (or as needed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend some time cooking the sausage and veggies, then slowly cooking the orzo to get it just right. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes until browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Toast and Cook the Orzo:
Pour the orzo pasta into the skillet and stir it around for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. Next, add the chicken broth slowly — about 1 cup at a time — stirring often. Let the orzo absorb the broth before adding more. Keep going until the orzo is tender but still a bit firm, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add Spinach and Sausage:
When the orzo is almost done, stir in the chopped spinach and the cooked sausage slices. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and all the flavors come together.
5. Season and Finish:
Sprinkle smoked paprika if you like, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Chicken Sausage Orzo!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Sausage?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat dry before slicing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Orzo With Another Pasta?
Absolutely! Small pasta like couscous, acini di pepe, or even small elbow macaroni work well. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly, so watch the texture carefully.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Replace chicken sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.