Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Creamy chicken orzo in a cast iron skillet with a wooden spoon slotted in the side.

If you're like me, you like a comforting, quick, and nourishing dinner that doesn't leave a mountain of dishes in the sink. That's why this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a game-changer. Made with clean, wholesome ingredients, this creamy, protein-packed meal is ready in under 30 minutes!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings people

Calories 332kcal

Author Jillian Schneider

Equipment

cast iron skillet
cutting board
paring knife

Ingredients

1 or 2 10 oz. All Natural "Thin Trim" Italian chicken sausage casings removed
2 cloves garlic minced
¼ cup olive oil
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. basil
1 10 oz. pkg. frozen spinach thawed
4 cups (32 oz. container) low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups (1 lb. box) orzo
½ cup parmesan cheese grated
1 tsp salt add more until desired taste
1 tsp ground black pepper add more unti ldesired taste
½ cup half and half

Instructions

Step 1 - First, heat oil and garlic in a large non-stick skillet or a cast-iron skillet (my fave kind of skillet ). If you need a recommendation, I've linked the one I use here. Cast Iron Skillet.
Step 2 - Stir in chicken sausage slices and cook until browned. Add more olive oil here if needed.
Step 3 - Then add broth and orzo. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender. Stirring often so it doesn't stick to the bottom.
Step 4 - Stir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 5 - Stir in half and half and spinach, and cook until mixed through and heated.
Step 6 - Top with parmesan cheese, and more salt and pepper, if desired, and stir to combine. Serve immediately and top with more cheese if you please!

Notes

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! The cream can be swapped out for a plant-based milk, and the cheese can either be omitted or substituted for nutritional yeast to keep the cheesey flavor.

What's the best orzo to use?

I prefer using whole-wheat orzo for the added fiber.

How do you store this dish?

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How can the kids help?

Have the kids measure out all the ingredients while you're adding them to your dish. A fun hidden math lesson.
With assistance of course, help them pour the ingredients into the pan.

Nutrition