One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that comes together in a snap, then you have to try this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors. Picture tender orzo pasta soaking up the savory goodness of chicken sausage and fresh vegetables—all cooked in just one pan. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, yet simple to make.

What I love most about this dish is how it brings everyone together. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this meal is sure to impress without keeping you tied to the kitchen. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which gives you more time to enjoy your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan and minimal prep, you can whip up dinner in about 40 minutes!
• Flavorful and Wholesome: The combination of chicken sausage, orzo, and colorful veggies makes every bite bursting with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the taste, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without them noticing!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the start of the week for delicious leftovers that reheat beautifully.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it right from the pan for a rustic and inviting look that dazzles your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo, you’ll want to gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Main Dish

• 1 lb chicken sausage (Italian or spicy)
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced thinly
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Change up the veggies: Use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes work well!
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for an extra layer of richness.

How to Make One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo

Step 1: Preheat and Sauté

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil to the skillet. Sautéing the chicken sausage until browned takes just about 5 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor by caramelizing the sausage—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 2: Add Your Veggies

Next, toss in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and minced garlic. Sauté these colorful vegetables until they soften, which takes about another 5 minutes. Not only does this help enhance their natural sweetness, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Seasoning

Now it’s time to stir in the uncooked orzo pasta along with dried oregano until everything is well combined. This ensures that every morsel of pasta gets coated with those delightful flavors right from the start.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the orzo becomes tender. This step is crucial as it allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while cooking the pasta perfectly!

Step 5: Final Touches

After simmering, let your dish sit for an additional 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like—this adds a lovely touch of freshness that brightens up each bite!

Enjoy sharing this delightful One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality chicken sausage for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in achieving that gourmet taste right at home.

• Cut Veggies Evenly: Ensure that your bell peppers and zucchini are cut into similar sizes. This promotes even cooking and ensures that every bite is perfectly tender.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each serving even more delicious.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add other herbs or spices like thyme or crushed red pepper flakes. This personal touch allows you to customize the dish to suit your palate.

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish flavorful without being overly salty, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

How to Serve One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo

Presentation is key when serving this vibrant dish! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and memorable.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: If you enjoy cheese, a light dusting of grated Parmesan on top provides a savory finish that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the orzo dish while adding crunch.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover orzo on your plate, providing a delightful texture contrast.
• Roasted Asparagus: Simply seasoned roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and pairs wonderfully with the flavors in your main dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only brings vibrant color but also offers a nutritious side option that rounds out your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo will be an irresistible centerpiece at any table! Enjoy sharing this delicious creation with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious meal ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Freezing

• Portion out the One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• For larger portions, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use different types of sausage in this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or any other preferred chicken sausage varieties. Just ensure they are pre-cooked before adding them to the dish.

How do I customize my One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo?

You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach, kale, or cherry tomatoes. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!

Is this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian option.

How long does it take to prepare One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo?

The total time is approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for weeknight dinners!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One Pan Chicken Sausage and Orzo! With its vibrant colors and comforting flavors, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience meant for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite as you gather around the table, creating memories that will last long after the last forkful has been savored. Happy cooking!