Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage works great for a lighter meal, you can substitute with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even vegetarian sausage to fit your diet and taste.

What if I don’t have orzo?

If you don't have orzo, small pasta shapes like acini di pepe, ditalini, or even small shells work well. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure they reach al dente without overcooking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the orzo for a gluten-free pasta or quick-cooking grains like quinoa. Keep an eye on cooking times and texture since they differ from orzo.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes when you add the paprika, or choose a spicy chicken sausage. Fresh chopped jalapeño also makes a nice addition if you love bold spice.

One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage | Easy Weeknight Dinner

Description

This flavorful one-pan orzo and chicken sausage recipe combines tender orzo pasta with juicy chicken sausage, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant green bell peppers in a savory tomato broth. It’s a balanced, protein-packed dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering comforting warmth and delicious taste all in one skillet.

Ingredients

Scale

Produce

¼ cup white onion, minced
8 oz. Bella mushrooms, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 large green bell peppers, diced

Meat

10 oz. chicken sausage, cut into rounds

Pantry

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 teaspoons kosher salt, separated
2 cups orzo
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
15 oz. diced tomatoes
2.25 cups chicken broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat oil and sauté onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When fragrant, add the minced white onions and season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions are softened and translucent.
Cook mushrooms, sausage, and garlic: Add the diced Bella mushrooms, sliced chicken sausage, minced garlic, and another ½ teaspoon kosher salt to the skillet. Continue sautéing for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release moisture and the sausage to brown slightly.
Toast orzo with spices: Stir in the orzo pasta, paprika, ground black pepper, tomato paste, and remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Toast the orzo mixture in the skillet for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to evenly coat the pasta and deepen flavors.
Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan, until the orzo is al dente and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, uncover, and fluff the orzo gently with a fork. Serve the dish warm immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep due to its one-pan simplicity and balanced nutrition.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Use gluten-free orzo or another small pasta shape to adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets.
Adjust the paprika amount to taste if you prefer a milder or spicier flavor.
Make sure to stir periodically during simmering to avoid burning orzo on the bottom of the pan.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 384 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 750 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 16 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg