Name: Irresistible Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz cooked chicken sausage, sliced; 1 cup orzo pasta; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small shallot or 1/4 onion, finely chopped; 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3/4 cup frozen green peas; 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

When I first whipped up this creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet, I wasn’t expecting it to become one of my weeknight go-to dishes. But the way the tender orzo absorbs that rich, savory cream sauce, perfectly complemented by the juicy chunks of golden-browned chicken sausage and bursts of sweet peas — it’s hard not to crave it over and over again. It’s one of those meals that feels comforting and cozy but doesn’t weigh you down, which is exactly what I look for in a weeknight dinner.

Irresistible Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe

What I love most is that it all comes together in a single skillet. Fewer dishes, full flavor, and a creamy, cheesy finish that practically begs to be scooped straight from the pan. Whether I’m cooking for guests or just craving something indulgent on a quiet night in, this dish never disappoints. If you’re looking for a simple but soul-satisfying meal, this creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet hits every note.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

One-skillet wonder: Everything cooks together, which means less cleanup and more flavor.
Creamy and hearty: The sauce clings to every piece of orzo and sausage, making each bite deliciously rich.
Quick and easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Family-friendly: Mild and savory flavors that appeal to both kids and adults.
Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients to fit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

What Kind of Chicken Sausage Should I Use?

You’ve got options when it comes to chicken sausage, and that’s one of the reasons I love this dish. I usually reach for a mild Italian-style chicken sausage — it gives just the right balance of flavor and spice without overpowering the creamy sauce. If you like a little more kick, a spicy or smoked variety works beautifully, adding extra depth. Just be sure to use fully cooked sausage so you can focus on browning it and building flavor without worrying about cooking it through.

Some other tasty options include:

Garlic and herb chicken sausage for a more fragrant flavor.
Apple chicken sausage for a touch of sweetness.
Sun-dried tomato and basil varieties for a Mediterranean twist.

Options for Substitutions

Life’s too short to worry about missing one ingredient — this dish is super flexible. Here are some swap ideas I’ve used (and loved):

Orzo substitute: If you’re out of orzo, try small pasta like ditalini, pearl couscous, or even arborio rice.
Chicken sausage swap: Turkey sausage or even sliced leftover chicken breast works well.
Heavy cream alternative: Half-and-half, whole milk, or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk can lighten the dish while keeping it creamy.
Cheese: Parmesan is classic, but Pecorino Romano or a touch of cream cheese can also do the trick.
Veggies: Frozen peas are easy, but baby spinach, chopped asparagus, or mushrooms are all delicious additions.

Ingredients for This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this skillet meal shine — each one plays a key role in building the flavor and texture that makes this dish irresistible.

Chicken Sausage
The star protein. It brings savory, spiced richness and browns beautifully in the skillet for those golden edges that add flavor.
Orzo Pasta
This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce and creating that luscious, risotto-like texture.
Garlic
Just a couple cloves finely minced bring warmth and depth to the base of the dish.
Shallot or Onion
Milder than regular onions, shallots add a sweet-savory balance that melts into the sauce.
Chicken Broth
This is where the orzo cooks and soaks up all the flavor. Opt for low-sodium to control seasoning.
Heavy Cream
Brings the luxurious creaminess. It thickens slightly as it simmers with the pasta and melds all the ingredients.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds nutty, salty goodness and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
Frozen Green Peas
These add sweetness, pop, and color — plus a veggie boost without extra prep.
Fresh Thyme (or Italian Herbs)
For a touch of earthiness and brightness to balance the creamy elements.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential to bring out the natural flavors in everything.
Olive Oil or Butter
For browning the sausage and softening the aromatics — adds richness from the start.

Irresistible Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet Recipe2

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Heat a drizzle of olive oil or a small pat of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced or chopped fully cooked chicken sausage. Let it sear without moving it too much — this helps develop that beautiful golden-brown crust. Once it’s caramelized and browned on both sides, remove the sausage and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. If needed, add a touch more oil or butter. Toss in finely minced garlic and chopped shallot or onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant but not browned — you want to build flavor, not burn.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Pour the dry orzo into the skillet with the aromatics. Stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes, allowing the pasta to toast lightly. This step adds a subtle nuttiness that elevates the final flavor.

Step 4: Simmer in Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Bring it to a gentle simmer and lower the heat. Let the orzo cook uncovered, stirring often, for about 10 minutes, or until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Peas

Once the orzo is creamy and tender, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the frozen peas and cooked sausage back to the skillet. Simmer everything together for another 2–3 minutes until the peas are heated through and the sausage is warmed.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Add fresh thyme leaves or your choice of herbs, and give it all a final stir. The sauce should be creamy but not too thick — if needed, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

This dish is wonderfully quick to make. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

Browning the sausage: 5–7 minutes
Sautéing aromatics and toasting orzo: 3–4 minutes
Simmering orzo in broth and cream: 10–12 minutes
Finishing with peas, cheese, and herbs: 3–5 minutes

Total cook time: Approximately 20–25 minutes.
It’s perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Use a wide skillet: A large pan gives your ingredients room to cook evenly and allows the orzo to spread out and absorb the liquid better.
Stir frequently while simmering: Orzo can stick to the bottom if left unattended. Stirring keeps it creamy and ensures it cooks evenly.
Don’t overcook the orzo: Aim for al dente. It will continue to thicken as it sits, and overcooking can make it mushy.
Grate your own cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly into the sauce than pre-shredded.
Season at the end: The sausage and broth add salt, so always taste before adding more.
Adjust creaminess: If your dish thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or milk to loosen it right before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple skillet dinner like this has its pitfalls if you’re not paying attention. Here’s what to avoid to keep your creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet on track:

Using raw sausage without cooking it fully first: This dish moves fast, so make sure you’re using pre-cooked sausage or allot time to fully cook raw versions before proceeding.
Overcrowding the skillet: Browning is key for flavor. If the sausage is too packed in the pan, it’ll steam instead of sear.
Skipping the orzo toasting: It may seem optional, but toasting brings a layer of nuttiness and depth that makes a big difference.
Forgetting to stir the orzo: It cooks directly in the skillet, and if left alone, it can stick and burn.
Adding cheese when the sauce is boiling: High heat can cause the cheese to become gritty. Lower the heat before stirring in the Parmesan.
Overcooking the orzo: It should be tender but still have a bit of bite — too soft and the dish turns gummy.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet?

While this dish is satisfying on its own, here are some side ideas that round it out perfectly:

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette provide a fresh contrast to the creamy orzo.

Crusty Garlic Bread

Great for scooping up every last bit of the sauce and adding some crunch.

Roasted Broccoli

A hearty veg side that roasts in the oven while the orzo simmers.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A bright, juicy pairing that adds a cooling bite alongside the warmth of the skillet.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their crispy, caramelized flavor complements the richness of the dish.

Sautéed Spinach

A quick and healthy side that brings balance to the table.

Lemon Asparagus

Lightly steamed or roasted with a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy pop.

A Glass of White Wine

Something crisp like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about this creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet is how well it keeps — perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day portions even more delicious.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or even water to bring back the creaminess, as the orzo tends to soak up moisture over time.
Freezing: While you can freeze it, the texture of the cream and orzo may change. If you do freeze, place in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, and reheat slowly on the stove after thawing.

Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind these values are approximations based on typical ingredients and serving size (serves 4).

Calories: ~550 per serving
Protein: ~26g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~28g
Saturated Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g
Sodium: ~900mg
Calcium: ~20% DV
Iron: ~15% DV

You can make this lighter by using reduced-fat cream, less cheese, or swapping the sausage for a leaner protein like chicken breast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with a splash of broth or milk to bring back its creaminess.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written — orzo is a wheat-based pasta. However, you can substitute with gluten-free orzo or rice to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I use raw chicken sausage instead of pre-cooked?

Absolutely. Just make sure to cook it fully in the skillet before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. It’ll add a bit of time, but the flavor payoff is worth it.

What’s the best way to make this lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. You can also cut back slightly on the cheese and use turkey sausage instead.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes — other small pastas like ditalini or even pearl couscous work well. You’ll need to adjust the liquid slightly and keep an eye on cook time.

Will the orzo keep cooking after I turn off the heat?

It can, which is why it’s best to cook it just until al dente. If letting it sit before serving, keep the lid off or stir in extra liquid before reheating.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Spinach, kale, bell peppers, or mushrooms can all be added — just sauté them with the aromatics before adding orzo.

Does this dish double well for a crowd?

Yes, but use a very large skillet or pot to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on liquid absorption and stir frequently.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet has earned its place as a comforting favorite in my kitchen. It’s rich, hearty, and full of savory flavor, yet it comes together fast enough for a busy evening. The creamy texture and cheesy finish make it feel indulgent, while the orzo and sausage combo is both satisfying and flexible. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or make it your own with a few swaps, it’s a reliable, delicious dish that I know you’ll come back to again and again.