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One-Pot Chicken and Sausage Orzo

Shruthi
One-Pot Chicken and Sausage Orzo is a delicious, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and flavorful orzo pasta cooked together in a a savory broth. The orzo absorbs the rich juices from the meat and seasonings, creating a creamy texture and bold flavor in every bite. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights because it requires minimal preparation and cleanup. With simple ingredients and hearty flavors, it’s a satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine american comfort food, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces)
  • 10 oz smoked sausage (sliced)
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 1 cup spinach (optional)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Sausage:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Chicken:
    In the same pan, add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly golden and mostly cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
  • Sauté Aromatics:
    Add butter, chopped onion, and garlic to the pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  • Toast the Orzo:
    Add the orzo pasta and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
  • Add Broth:
    Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Combine Ingredients:
    Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Cover and cook for about 10–12 minutes until the orzo is tender.
  • Finish the Dish:
    Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
  • Serve:
    Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Orzo cooks quickly, so watch it carefully.
  • Smoked sausage adds deep flavor.
  • Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients.
  • Parmesan enhances the creamy texture.
  • Do not overcook orzo to avoid mushy texture.
  • Use a large skillet for even cooking.
  • Fresh herbs improve flavor.
  • This dish reheats well the next day.
Keyword chicken and sausage orzo, creamy orzo dish, easy chicken pasta dinner, one-pot orzo recipe, skillet orzo meal, weeknight one-pot dinner