Description
A flavorful and easy one-pan orzo and chicken sausage recipe that combines juicy chicken sausage, sautéed vegetables, and tender orzo pasta in a savory tomato broth. Perfect for a quick, balanced weeknight meal rich in protein and veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Proteins
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ¼ cup white onion (minced)
- 8 oz. Bella mushrooms (diced)
- 10 oz. chicken sausage (cut into rounds)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large green bell peppers (diced)
Dry and Canned Ingredients
- 2 cups orzo
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 15 oz. diced tomatoes
- 2.25 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (separated)
Instructions
- Heat and sauté onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once fragrant, add the minced white onion and season with ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add mushrooms, sausage, and garlic: Add diced mushrooms, chicken sausage rounds, minced garlic, and another ½ teaspoon kosher salt to the skillet. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until mushrooms are softened and sausage is slightly browned.
- Toast the orzo and spices: Stir in the orzo, paprika, ground black pepper, tomato paste, and remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Toast the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the orzo and enhance flavor.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until orzo is cooked al dente and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and uncover. Fluff the orzo with a fork to separate grains. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your balanced one-pan meal.
Notes
- This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep as it cooks quickly and in just one pan.
- You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or vegetarian sausage if preferred.
- For extra veggies, consider adding diced zucchini or spinach during the simmer step.
- If you want a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes along with paprika.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 384 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
