One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

The One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with wholesome ingredients. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Packed with protein, veggies, and the comforting taste of orzo, this recipe shines in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this one-pan wonder will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy dinner without the hassle.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of chicken sausage, vegetables, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this dish makes for a balanced meal that satisfies without compromising health.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized with your favorite veggies or spices.
• Family-Friendly: A hit among both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Using the right kitchen tools can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking everything in one pan, ensuring even heat distribution and easy mixing.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface while providing control over mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

This one-pan orzo and chicken sausage packs flavor, protein, and veggies for a balanced and delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• ¼ white onion (minced)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (separated)
• 8 oz. Bella mushrooms (diced)

For the Protein

• 10 oz. chicken sausage (cut into rounds)

For Flavoring

• 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

For Liquid

• 15 oz. diced tomatoes
• 2.25 cups chicken broth

How to Make One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium/high heat. Add the white onion and season with ½ teaspoon salt when the olive oil is fragrant. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Chicken Sausage

Add the mushrooms, chicken sausage, garlic, and another ½ teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until everything is slightly browned.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Next, add the orzo, paprika, pepper, tomato paste, and remaining salt to the skillet. Toast the orzo by stirring continuously for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 5-7 minutes while stirring periodically to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Fluff Your Dish

When the orzo reaches al dente texture, remove it from heat. Uncover it carefully and fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage hot off the stove!

How to Serve One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

Serving One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage is simple and versatile. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with sides can elevate the meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or basil – Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.

Grated Cheese

• Parmesan or mozzarella – Add a generous sprinkle of grated cheese just before serving for a creamy texture that complements the dish nicely.

Lemon Wedges

• Zesty lemon – Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully.

Green Salad

• Mixed greens – Pair with a light salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the warm orzo dish.

Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or baguette – Offer slices of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. It makes for a satisfying addition.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables – Serve alongside roasted seasonal veggies for added nutrition and color on the plate.

How to Perfect One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

To achieve the best results with your One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose quality chicken sausage – Opt for high-quality sausage made from lean meat for better flavor and texture.
• Sauté properly – Ensure you sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant; this builds a flavorful base.
• Don’t skip the toasting step – Toasting the orzo enhances its nutty flavor, so take those extra minutes!
• Monitor liquid levels – Keep an eye on the chicken broth; if needed, add a splash more to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust spices like paprika or add herbs such as thyme for additional depth.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes off heat helps develop flavors further.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

Pairing side dishes with One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, this classic side is ideal for soaking up juices.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and is packed with nutrients; steam lightly for crispness.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers a delicious crunch that complements the dish.
4. Roasted Potatoes – Seasoned roasted potatoes provide heartiness; toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs before baking.
5. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus spears bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken sausage.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture contrast; use shredded cabbage mixed with carrots in a light dressing.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice or quinoa, these peppers echo similar flavors while adding visual appeal.
8. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a cool palate cleanser alongside the warm orzo dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Boldly skip salting: Not seasoning your ingredients properly can lead to bland results. Make sure to season each layer of the dish as you go.
• Boldly overlook stirring: Allowing the orzo to stick to the bottom of the pan can ruin your dish. Stir frequently during cooking to ensure even texture and prevent sticking.
• Boldly ignore cooking times: Overcooking can lead to mushy orzo. Keep an eye on the cooking time, aiming for al dente pasta for the best results.
• Boldly rush ingredient prep: Cutting vegetables too large can result in uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are chopped uniformly for even distribution and consistent cooking.
• Boldly forget about broth: Using insufficient liquid is a common mistake. Ensure you measure out enough broth for proper orzo cooking; it should be enough to absorb while creating a creamy consistency.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe quick?

The one-pan nature means you only need one pot, cutting down on prep and cleanup time.

Can I customize the One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach based on your preference.

Is this One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe healthy?

Yes! It offers protein from chicken sausage along with nutritious veggies, making it a balanced meal.

How do I store leftovers from the One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, give it a try and enjoy the ease of a flavorful meal all made in one pan!

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