Description
This One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage recipe is a quick and flavorful meal combining tender orzo pasta, savory chicken sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a balanced plate with protein, veggies, and comforting textures all cooked in one skillet.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ¼ white onion (minced)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (separated)
- 8 oz. Bella mushrooms (diced)
- 10 oz. chicken sausage (cut into rounds)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large green bell peppers (diced)
- 2 cups orzo
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 15 oz. diced tomatoes
- 2.25 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sauté Onion: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant. Add the minced white onion and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened.
- Add Mushrooms, Sausage, and Garlic: Stir in the diced Bella mushrooms, chicken sausage rounds, minced garlic, and another ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Continue sautéing for 3-4 more minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the sausage is lightly browned.
- Toast the Orzo and Spices: Add the orzo, paprika, ground black pepper, tomato paste, and remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt to the skillet. Toast the mixture while stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes to enhance the orzo's nutty flavor.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth, Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
- Finish and Serve: Once the orzo is cooked al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed, remove the skillet from heat, uncover, and fluff the orzo with a fork. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- This recipe combines protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one pan, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week.
- You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or pork sausage depending on your preference.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to avoid the orzo sticking or burning on the bottom of the pan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 384 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
