There is something truly comforting and vibrant about this Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe that has made it one of my all-time favorites. It’s a one-pan wonder where tiny orzo pasta perfectly absorbs the rich flavors of diced tomatoes, savory chicken sausage, and fragrant herbs, creating a dish that’s both hearty and fresh. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that impresses with minimal effort, this recipe balances proteins, veggies, and carbs beautifully, making every bite a celebration of texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor, color, and texture that make this dish so satisfying and wholesome.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, it adds a smooth richness to the base.
- Chicken sausage: Brings a smoky, meaty element; you can choose mild or spicy according to your preference.
- Small onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse warmth and a punch of aroma that awakens the dish.
- Orzo pasta: A small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and soaks up all the savory juices.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Provide a tangy and slightly sweet tomato base, bursting with umami.
- Chicken broth: A savory liquid that gently cooks the orzo while enriching the flavor.
- Dried oregano: Offers an herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with tomato and sausage.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a subtle heat to awaken the palate, perfect if you like a hint of spice.
- Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle that brings creaminess and a salty kick.
- Fresh basil (optional): Gives a bright, fresh finish that feels like summer on the plate.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating all the other flavors.
How to Make Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and let it brown beautifully, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step not only locks in those savory, juicy flavors but also creates that lovely caramelized exterior that adds texture. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, around 3 to 4 minutes. This boosts the sweetness and forms a fragrant base. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute or two until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. The aroma at this point is almost irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Orzo
Now add the orzo to coat it evenly with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the chicken broth into the skillet. Sprinkle in the oregano, red pepper flakes if you want some heat, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes. The orzo will soak up the broth and tomato juices, becoming tender and infused with flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the orzo is perfectly cooked, stir the browned chicken sausage back into the skillet. Remove the pan from the heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. This step adds a wonderful creaminess and depth, tying all the flavors together. Give it a taste and adjust any seasoning as needed – this is where you make it your own.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Finally, for that pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top. Serve the tomato orzo hot straight from the skillet. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as a flavorful solo meal.
How to Serve Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the star garnish here — its bright aroma uplifts every bite. A twist of lemon zest or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan can also add exciting layers. For a little crunch, consider toasted pine nuts or a handful of baby spinach tossed in just before serving.
Side Dishes
While this recipe is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables brings a lovely balance. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette makes fantastic companions, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a rustic skillet or divide into individual bowls garnished with herbs and cheese for a cozy dinner party. For a fresh twist, try stuffing roasted bell peppers with the tomato orzo mixture or layering it in a casserole dish with mozzarella melted on top for a comforting bake.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe reheats wonderfully, so keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze leftovers, be mindful that the orzo might soften a bit when thawed. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat this dish slowly over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it feels too thick. Stir frequently to keep the orzo from sticking and to restore the creamy texture. Microwave reheating is fine but cover the dish to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use beef or turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken sausage because of its mild flavor that balances nicely with the tomatoes and orzo, feel free to swap in beef or turkey sausage based on what you prefer or have on hand. Just adjust cooking times if needed.
Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo is made from wheat and contains gluten. If you need a gluten-free option, there are several gluten-free orzo or small rice-shaped pasta alternatives available that work well in this recipe without sacrificing texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To keep it vegetarian, omit the chicken sausage and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for texture and flavor. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth also keeps it fully plant-based.
How spicy is this Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe?
The heat level depends on the sausage you choose and whether you add red pepper flakes. You can keep it mild or add the flakes for a gentle kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance – it’s very flexible!
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely. This recipe is great for meal prep since it stores and reheats well. Prepare the entire dish, portion it into containers, and enjoy flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
This Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe has quickly become a staple for me because it manages to be both simple and incredibly delicious. With fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a comforting meal that feels special every time. I can’t wait for you to try this one and make it your own go-to dish!
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Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Tomato Orzo with Chicken Sausage recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender orzo pasta is simmered with diced tomatoes, aromatic garlic and onions, and seasoned with oregano and red pepper flakes. Sliced chicken sausage adds a savory protein boost, while grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil bring rich, fresh finishes to every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo: Add the orzo pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the onion and garlic. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Season with dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Combine and Serve: Stir the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet with the orzo. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired and serve the tomato orzo hot for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can use mild or spicy chicken sausage based on your heat preference.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free orzo or substitute with another gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding the Parmesan cheese off the heat ensures it melts smoothly without becoming grainy.
