This Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal that’s packed with bold flavors and creamy texture.
The spicy chicken sausage pairs perfectly with tender orzo, spinach, and parmesan for a satisfying dinner that comes together quickly.
Why I Love This Recipe
Easy one-pan dish for minimal cleanup.
Bold spice from Italian sausage balanced by creamy coconut milk.
Nutritious addition of fresh spinach.
Quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Spicy Italian chicken sausage — delivers bold, savory flavor.
Orzo pasta — cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Coconut milk — adds creamy richness with a subtle sweetness.
Fresh spinach — adds color and nutrients.
Parmesan cheese — brings salty, nutty depth.
Garlic and seasonings — essential flavor builders.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use low sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
Toast the orzo briefly for a nuttier flavor and better texture.
Stir occasionally to prevent orzo from sticking and burning.
Add spinach last to preserve its bright color and nutrients.
Adjust red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
How to Make Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sliced spicy Italian chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Toast the Orzo
Add dry orzo to the pan and toast it for about 60 seconds with the sausage and garlic.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan.
Add coconut milk, soy sauce, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and thyme.
Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Orzo is done when tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Cheese
Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted.
Mix in freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Light green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables
A glass of crisp white wine
Variations / Substitutions
Use heavy cream instead of coconut milk for a richer sauce.
Swap chicken sausage for pork or turkey sausage.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
Replace orzo with couscous or small pasta shapes.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if dry.
Not ideal for freezing due to dairy and spinach texture changes.
FAQs
Can I use regular Italian sausage instead?
Yes, but spicy sausage adds extra flavor and heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, orzo is made from wheat. Use gluten-free pasta alternatives if needed.
Can I omit the coconut milk?
You can substitute with heavy cream or additional broth.
How do I prevent orzo from sticking?
Stir occasionally and use enough liquid to cover the pasta.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great options.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat, but you can adjust red pepper flakes to taste.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, cook completely and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet is a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors.
It’s easy to prepare, hearty enough for dinner, and loved by the whole family.
Give it a try for your next weeknight meal!
Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz spicy Italian chicken sausage sliced
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat; cook sausage until browned, about 6–7 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
- Add orzo and toast 60 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, and seasonings; stir to combine.
- Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in spinach until wilted, then add parmesan. Adjust seasoning.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://mischacrossing.com/spicy-italian-chicken-sausage-orzo-skillet/
Notes
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free Parmesan or skip the cheese if preferred.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your desired level of heat.
