Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring spicy Italian chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce made with coconut milk and parmesan cheese. Enhanced with garlic, spinach, and aromatic thyme, it’s a comforting dish perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Protein & Meat
- 12 oz spicy Italian chicken sausage, sliced
Produce & Herbs
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
Pantry & Dry Goods
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Dairy & Alternatives
- 1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (or heavy cream)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high. Add the sliced spicy Italian chicken sausage and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the sausage and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
- Toast the Orzo: Stir in the dry orzo and toast it in the pan with the sausage and garlic for about 60 seconds to enhance its flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then add the coconut milk, soy sauce, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer the Orzo: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking. The orzo is cooked when tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the baby spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Mix in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful skillet.
Notes
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture; heavy cream can be substituted if preferred.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium broth and soy sauce.
- Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice tolerance.
- Stirring occasionally while simmering is key to preventing the orzo from sticking and burning.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before adding.
