There’s something so comforting about a meal that comes together in one pan, especially when it’s packed with flavor and hearty ingredients. This One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe is exactly that—it’s a vibrant, cozy dish that makes dinnertime both simple and satisfying.

A white deep plate holds a colorful dish made of small, almond-shaped pasta mixed with slices of cooked sausage that are light brown with a smooth texture, scattered evenly on top and within, green bell pepper pieces with a soft look mixed throughout, diced red patches from tomatoes, and small bits of mushroom adding a darker tone. Fresh chopped green herbs sit on one side of the dish and are sprinkled on top, making the dish look fresh and vibrant. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with a small white bowl of extra chopped green herbs nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this recipe has become a go-to in my house for busy nights. It’s effortless but never feels boring thanks to the blend of textures and savory bites of chicken sausage. Plus, the one-pan method means fewer dishes to wash—a small win I appreciate every time.

Simple Cleanup: Everything cooks in just one pan, saving you time and energy in the kitchen.
Balanced Flavors: Juicy chicken sausage, earthy mushrooms, and bright bell peppers mingle with herby orzo for a satisfying mix.
Quick Weeknight Meal: From prep to plate in about 40 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy schedules.
Flexible and Customizable: You can easily swap veggies or sausage types to suit your taste or pantry.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe complement each other beautifully. The orzo acts like a tender little pasta pearl soaking up all those lovely flavors, while the sausage brings a protein punch with its savory notes. I always recommend using fresh veggies and quality chicken sausage for the best taste.

Flat lay of diced green bell peppers, diced Bella mushrooms, whole uncracked brown chicken sausages sliced in rounds, a small mound of raw orzo pasta, a quarter of a white onion minced in a neat pile, five whole cloves of garlic, a small white ceramic bowl of olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl of tomato paste, a small white ceramic bowl of diced fresh tomatoes, a small white ceramic bowl of chicken broth, a small white ceramic bowl of kosher salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl of paprika powder, a small white ceramic bowl of ground black pepper placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Olive Oil: Use good-quality olive oil to get that perfect sauté base and add richness.
White Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning each layer of flavor as you cook.
Bella Mushrooms: Their meaty texture pairs wonderfully with the sausage.
Chicken Sausage: Brings lean protein and delicious seasoning; slice into rounds for even cooking.
Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful, key for that homey feel.
Green Bell Peppers: Adds crunch and a pop of color with mild sweetness.
Orzo: The star grain that cooks quickly and absorbs all the flavors.
Paprika: A hint of smoky warmth that lifts the dish.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds a nice bite.
Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the sauce.
Diced Tomatoes: Contributes moisture and a fresh tang.
Chicken Broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the orzo and melds everything together.

📝

Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One thing I love about this One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe is how easy it is to tailor it to what you like or what you have handy. I often toss in extra veggies or swap out the chicken sausage for Italian sausage when I want a bit more spice. It’s about making the dish your own!

Variation: When I’m in a hurry, I swap mushrooms for zucchini or spinach to speed things up and add a fresh twist.
Health Boost: Try using whole wheat orzo or add a handful of kale for an extra nutrient punch.
Spice it Up: Toss in some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Protein Swap: For a vegetarian take, replace the sausage with seasoned chickpeas or your favorite plant-based sausage alternative.

Step-by-Step: How I Make One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe

A black pan filled with a dish showing three main layers: the base layer is orange rice mixed with small pieces of green bell peppers and bits of darker mushrooms; the middle layer consists of round slices of brown sausages spread evenly throughout the dish; the top layer is sprinkled with a generous bunch of fresh green chopped herbs, mostly parsley, positioned in the center and scattered lightly around. A wooden spoon rests inside the pan on the right side. The background is a white marbled surface with a white cloth placed under the pan's handle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté Onions for Flavorful Foundations

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When you notice that beautiful olive oil fragrance, add the minced white onion along with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Sauté the onions for about 3–4 minutes until they're translucent and just starting to soften. This step builds a savory base that will flavor everything else.

Step 2: Add Mushrooms, Sausage, and Garlic

Next, toss in the diced bella mushrooms, sliced chicken sausage rounds, minced garlic, and another ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté everything for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mushrooms will soften and release their moisture, and the sausage will begin browning, adding lots of rich flavor to the pan.

Step 3: Toast the Orzo with Spices

Turn the heat down slightly, then add the orzo, paprika, black pepper, tomato paste, and the last 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir well and let the orzo toast in the pan for about 2–3 minutes. This toasting step adds a nuttier depth to the orzo that you won’t get if you skip it. Make sure to keep stirring so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth, Then Simmer

Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet and increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan’s bottom. You’ll want the orzo just al dente — tender but with a slight bite.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve Immediately

Once the orzo is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat and uncover it. Use a fork to fluff the mixture gently, separating the grains and distributing all that delicious sausage, veggies, and sauce. Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

Top Tip

In my experience, a few tweaks can take this One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe from good to great. These tips have saved me more than once when juggling a busy night.

Don’t Rush Toasting the Orzo: Toasting the orzo before adding the liquid builds a deeper flavor, so give it those full 2–3 minutes with good stirring.
Watch the Liquid Level: If your broth evaporates too quickly, add a splash of water or more broth to prevent sticking and ensure the orzo cooks evenly.
Use a Wide, Heavy Skillet: A larger surface area helps everything cook evenly and makes stirring easier.
Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid mushiness—al dente texture really makes this dish shine.

How to Serve One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe

one-pan orzo with chicken sausage - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving to amp up the savoriness. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds that final silky touch.

Side Dishes

Since this meal is hearty and filling on its own, I usually keep sides light. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, or some roasted asparagus on the side works perfectly for added veggies without too much fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion or dinner party, I like to serve the orzo in individual shallow bowls, garnished with microgreens and a wedge of lemon for guests to squeeze on top. It’s simple yet elegant, showcasing the vibrant colors and inviting texture of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The orzo tends to absorb more liquid as it sits, so it might thicken up. When you reheat, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up to its perfect, creamy consistency.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times with good results—just cool it completely before packing it into freezer-safe containers. When you defrost and reheat, again add a little liquid to keep the orzo tender and delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth. It helps bring back that fresh, saucy texture better than microwaving. Stir often to prevent sticking, and you’re ready to enjoy a meal that feels freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken sausage with pork, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed depending on the sausage type.

What if I don’t have orzo—can I use a different pasta?

Yes, you can swap orzo for other small pasta shapes like small shells or acini di pepe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the texture as it simmers.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free orzo or substitute with rice or quinoa. The cooking liquid might need slight adjustments since these grains absorb differently than pasta.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe isn’t very spicy by default, but the paprika adds a gentle warmth. If you enjoy heat, adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy sausage variation will kick it up nicely.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Orzo with Chicken Sausage Recipe holds a special spot in my dinner rotation because of how easy it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor. It’s a warm, hearty meal that feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for sharing or meal prepping ahead. Give it a try—you might just find it’s the new weeknight favorite you didn’t know you needed!