What Is Chicken and Sausage Orzo?
Chicken and Sausage Orzo is a delicious, one-pot dish where orzo pasta is simmered directly in a savory blend of seared sausage, tender chicken, garlic, onions, and broth.
The orzo absorbs all the flavors as it cooks, giving you a creamy, risotto-like texture — without needing constant stirring. It’s filling, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
✅ Made in one pan — fewer dishes!
✅ Family-friendly & freezer-friendly
✅ Loaded with protein and comfort flavors
✅ Customizable with veggies or spices
✅ Feels gourmet but cooks in under 40 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
🍗 Proteins:
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (or breasts), diced
- 8 oz smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa), sliced
🍝 Pasta & Liquids:
- 1½ cups orzo pasta (dry)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
🧅 Aromatics & Veggies:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: spinach, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
👨🍳 Total Time: 35–40 mins
Serves: 4
Step 1: Sear the proteins
In a large skillet, heat oil. Sauté sausage slices until golden. Remove and set aside. Add diced chicken and cook until browned. Remove chicken.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
In the same pan, add onions and garlic. Sauté until soft. Stir in paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Toast orzo & deglaze
Add dry orzo to the pan and stir for 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth to deglaze, scraping any bits from the pan.
Step 4: Simmer with proteins
Add chicken and sausage back to the pan. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes until orzo is tender and broth mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Stir in cream & finish
Reduce heat. Stir in cream and any optional veggies like spinach or tomatoes. Cook 2–3 minutes until creamy and thickened. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor
- Toast the orzo before adding broth for a nutty base flavor
- Don’t overcook — orzo becomes mushy quickly
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt
- Let it sit 5 minutes after cooking for the best texture
- Add spinach at the end so it stays vibrant
Flavor Variations & Swaps
| Variation | Swap or Add |
|---|---|
| Spicy | Use andouille sausage + red chili flakes |
| Creamy Tomato | Add 2 tbsp tomato paste with broth |
| Veggie-loaded | Stir in zucchini, mushrooms, or kale |
| Dairy-Free | Skip cream or use coconut cream |
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley
- Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables
- Serve with crusty garlic bread
- Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness
- Great for lunch meal prep!
Storage & Reheating Tips
- 🧊 Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days
- ❄️ Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
- 🔥 Reheat: Add a splash of broth or milk and reheat on stovetop or microwave
FAQs
❓ Can I use rice instead of orzo?
Yes, but cooking time and liquid ratio will change. Try arborio rice for risotto vibes.
❓ Is orzo pasta or rice?
Orzo is pasta shaped like rice — not a grain!
❓ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken cooking step and add it during simmer.
❓ Is this gluten-free?
No, but you can find gluten-free orzo alternatives.
👉 Looking for another easy one-pan dinner? Don’t miss our Creamy Tuscan White Bean Skillet — a comforting, plant-powered classic.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and Sausage Orzo is the kind of meal that makes you feel like a pro chef without the stress. With juicy protein, creamy pasta, and bold seasonings — all cooked in a single skillet — it’s perfect for busy families or lazy Sundays.
Customize it, double it, or freeze it — this is a recipe worth saving.
