ooking for a quick and easy dinner that’s both creamy and full of flavor? This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo is the perfect one-pot pasta dish for busy weeknights. Made with Italian chicken sausage, garlic, spinach, and tender orzo pasta, it’s a protein-packed pasta meal that’s comforting and satisfying. The coconut milk sauce makes it rich and creamy without heavy cream, making it ideal for dairy-free pasta options. This family-friendly pasta recipe is also great for meal prep, reheating well for lunches or dinners. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a delicious easy weeknight orzo recipe that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Orzo
This creamy chicken sausage orzo is a simple, one-pot meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It cooks quickly, needs very little clean-up, and still tastes like a comforting restaurant-style pasta dish. The orzo absorbs the chicken broth and coconut milk, creating a rich and creamy texture without needing heavy cream. Italian chicken sausage adds protein and flavor, while spinach and garlic make the dish feel fresh and nutritious. This recipe also works well for meal prep because the orzo reheats nicely. Whether you want a 20-minute dinner idea, a healthy chicken sausage recipe, or a family-friendly pasta meal, this creamy orzo is a dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is a simple table with all the ingredients for this creamy chicken sausage orzo recipe. These ingredients help create a flavorful one-skillet pasta dish with protein, greens, and a creamy coconut milk sauce.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Sausage (Italian or spicy) | 12 oz | Slice into rounds |
| Orzo Pasta | 1 cup (dry) | Toasting adds flavor |
| Garlic | 3–4 cloves | Minced |
| Spinach | 2 cups | Fresh or frozen |
| Coconut Milk | 1 cup | Makes dairy-free creamy sauce |
| Chicken Broth | 1 ½ cups | Adds depth and moisture |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Parmesan Cheese | ¼ cup | Optional for topping |
| Fresh Thyme | 1 tsp | Adds aroma |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ¼ tsp | Optional heat |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Season as needed |
Equipment Needed
For this simple one-skillet meal, you only need a few basic kitchen tools. A large non-stick skillet or sauté pan is the most important because the entire dish cooks in one pot. A sharp knife helps slice the chicken sausage easily, and a wooden spoon or spatula lets you stir the orzo without scratching the pan. You will also need a measuring cup for the chicken broth and coconut milk. If you want to grate fresh Parmesan, a small grater is helpful. This recipe works perfectly for small kitchens or quick dinners since it requires minimal equipment and cleanup.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it becomes golden and slightly crispy. Next, stir in the garlic and toast the dry orzo for one to two minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, then stir well so the orzo cooks evenly. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer until the orzo becomes tender and creamy. Finally, mix in spinach, thyme, pepper flakes, and any seasonings you like. Stir until the greens wilt. Serve warm with Parmesan for a creamy, comforting pasta dinner.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
For extra-creamy orzo, let it simmer slowly so the pasta absorbs the coconut milk fully. Stir the mixture often to keep the orzo from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Toasting the orzo before adding liquid helps build a deep, nutty flavor. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add more broth until it reaches your ideal texture. For a stronger Italian taste, use spicy Italian chicken sausage and fresh thyme. If you want a thicker sauce, simmer the orzo uncovered for the last few minutes. Always taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Parmesan at the end.
Recipe Tips, Notes & Variations
This creamy skillet pasta is easy to customize. You can use turkey sausage, plant-based sausage, or even shredded chicken instead of chicken sausage. Swap spinach for kale, broccoli, or peas for a different veggie option. If you want a dairy-free pasta recipe, skip the Parmesan and rely on coconut milk for creaminess. For a richer sauce, use half coconut milk and half heavy cream. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor. If you want more heat, increase the red pepper flakes. Whole-wheat orzo, gluten-free orzo, or small pasta shapes also work well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, the recipe already uses coconut milk, which makes it naturally creamy without heavy cream or cheese.
Is orzo healthier than regular pasta?
Orzo is similar to small pasta, but portion control is easier, and it cooks faster.
What can I use instead of orzo?
You can replace orzo with small pasta like couscous, ditalini, or mini shells.
Can I freeze creamy orzo?
Freezing is possible, but the texture becomes softer. It’s best for meal prep when stored in the fridge.
Meal Prep, Leftovers & Storage
This one-pot orzo dinner is great for meal prep because it stays creamy even after reheating. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and keep the pasta from drying out. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring halfway through. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze it, but the texture may soften slightly. For best results, cool the pasta completely before storing. This makes a nutritious weeknight meal that is easy to pack for lunch.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken sausage orzo is a fast, flavorful, and satisfying recipe perfect for busy families. With simple ingredients, one-pan cooking, and a rich coconut milk sauce, it brings comfort food and healthy protein together in one dish. The orzo cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors, making each bite creamy and hearty. Whether you need a quick and easy dinner, a meal prep recipe, or a family-friendly pasta, this dish is reliable and customizable. Try adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that tastes amazing every time.
Hamza Qayyum is a passionate home chef and recipe developer with over 4 years of experience creating healthy, family-friendly meals. She loves simplifying classic dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients and sharing practical, tested recipes that help home cooks gain confidence in the kitchen.
