Description
This Chicken Sausage Orzo recipe combines savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and sautéed vegetables in a flavorful, comforting one-pan meal ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it balances hearty protein with vibrant peppers and aromatic herbs, finished with fresh parsley for a bright touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound chicken sausage
Pasta and Grains
- 1 cup orzo pasta
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook sausage: Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces and add to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add orzo and seasonings: Pour in 1 cup of orzo pasta, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Adjust consistency: If the orzo absorbs too much liquid and seems dry, add a little more chicken broth while cooking, stirring to combine.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving to add color and freshness.
Notes
- Use any type of chicken sausage you prefer, such as spicy or mild, to customize flavor.
- If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or grated Parmesan cheese after cooking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the dish.
