There’s something downright cozy and satisfying about a dish that comes together in just one pan. This One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe is exactly that—a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect for those busy nights when you want home-cooked goodness without the fuss.

The dish is a mix of small, rice-shaped pasta pieces that are light orange in color, layered with slices of sausage that are brown with a slight shine, and chunks of green and red bell peppers scattered throughout. There are also small pieces of mushrooms visible, adding a darker brown texture. Fresh chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top and around the dish, adding a pop of bright green. All the ingredients are served on a round, white plate with a smooth finish, set on a white marbled surface with hints of scattered 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 and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This one-pan wonder is one of those recipes I find myself making again and again because it hits the perfect balance between ease and flavor. You get hearty chicken sausage, tender orzo, and plenty of veggies all cooked up in a single skillet. It’s comforting without being heavy—just right for a weeknight dinner or meal prep stash.

Easy Cleanup: Since everything cooks in one pan, you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
Balanced Nutrition: You get protein, veggies, and carbs all in one pot for a well-rounded dish that fuels you.
Deep, Layered Flavors: Toasting the orzo and incorporating tomato paste offers a richness that makes every bite satisfying.
Flexible and Customizable: You can easily swap in different veggies or sausage types to make it your own.

Ingredients & Why They Work

I love how the combination of ingredients in this One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe creates a comforting meal with layers of flavor and satisfying textures. Each element brings something special, and I always keep an eye out for fresh produce and quality sausage to make it shine.

Flat lay of a small mound of dry orzo pasta, two large diced green bell peppers, several thick rounds of raw chicken sausage, a cluster of diced white onion, a pile of diced Bella mushrooms, five whole garlic cloves unpeeled, a small white ceramic bowl filled with bright red tomato paste, a small white ceramic bowl containing coarse kosher salt crystals, a small white ceramic bowl with dark ground black pepper, a small white ceramic bowl of paprika powder, a small white ceramic bowl with golden olive oil, a simple white ceramic bowl holding rich red diced tomatoes, a simple white ceramic bowl filled with golden chicken broth, all arranged in perfect symmetry 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: Gives a silky base for sautéing aromatic veggies and proteins; opt for extra virgin for best flavor.
White onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed gently; mince finely for even cooking.
Kosher salt: Necessary for seasoning at different stages to build layers of flavor without oversalting.
Bella mushrooms: Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with sausage and adds tender texture.
Chicken sausage: Lean protein that cooks quickly; I like ones with robust seasoning to elevate the dish.
Garlic: A must for that aromatic punch—mince or crush fresh cloves for best taste.
Green bell peppers: Brighten the skillet with their slight sweetness and crunch.
Orzo: Creamy pasta that cooks fast and soaks up all the savory goodness from the broth and tomato paste.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that ties flavors together.
Ground black pepper: Freshly cracked is best to bring mild heat and aroma.
Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor, helping to deepen the sauce and add richness.
Diced tomatoes: Bring juiciness and acidity that balance the sausage’s savoriness.
Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the orzo with flavor and helps everything meld.

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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

I love playing around with this skillet, and you should definitely make it your own. You can easily swap out the veggies or sausages depending on what’s in your fridge or what you’re craving. Don’t hesitate to add a little heat or a handful of fresh herbs at the end to brighten it up.

Variation: I sometimes use sweet Italian sausage instead of chicken for a spicier kick—your call! It’s wonderful either way.
Vegetable swaps: Try adding chopped zucchini or spinach towards the end for extra greens without much fuss.
Dairy addition: Stir in a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of creamy ricotta before serving to add indulgent creaminess.
Make it vegetarian: Omit sausage and add extra mushrooms or beans for protein; just boost your seasonings accordingly.

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

A black skillet filled with cooked orzo pasta mixed with sliced sausage pieces, chopped green peppers, and small bits of tomatoes, all coated in a light reddish sauce. The dish is topped with fresh chopped green parsley scattered in the center. A wooden spoon is resting inside the skillet, slightly lifting some of the orzo mixture. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until you can smell that lovely olive oil fragrance. Toss in the minced white onion with half a teaspoon of the kosher salt and sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions start to soften and become translucent. This step builds the flavor base, so don’t rush it. Keep stirring to avoid browning too quickly.

Step 2: Add mushrooms, sausage, and garlic

Next up, add the diced mushrooms, sliced chicken sausage rounds, minced garlic, and another ½ teaspoon of salt. Sauté everything together for about 3–4 more minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and the sausage starts to brown. The garlic will infuse the pan with amazing aroma—try not to let it burn by stirring frequently.

Step 3: Toast the orzo and spices

Now, toss in the orzo, paprika, black pepper, tomato paste, and the remaining salt. Stir continuously and toast the orzo for 2–3 minutes until it looks glossy and slightly golden. This little toasting step gives the orzo a nutty flavor that makes this skillet unique, so it’s definitely worth the extra minute or two.

Step 4: Add liquids and simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then stir everything well and bring it to a boil. As soon as it boils, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. You’ll know it’s done when the orzo is tender but still has a slight bite—that perfect al dente texture.

Step 5: Fluff and serve

Once the orzo is ready, remove the skillet from the heat and uncover it. Fluff the orzo gently with a fork to loosen everything up. This is the moment when all the flavors come together. Serve it up right away—you won’t want to wait!

Top Tip

From the first time I made this recipe, I learned there are a few little tricks that make all the difference between good and great. These tips have saved me from soggy or under-flavored results more times than I can count!

Toast the orzo: Don’t skip this step—it adds a lovely nutty flavor and keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.
Control your heat: Medium-high heat works well to brown sausage and veggies, but once you add the liquid, drop the heat to low and simmer gently.
Stir occasionally: Give the skillet a stir every few minutes while simmering so the orzo cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
Don’t overcook: Check the orzo a little early to avoid mushiness—remember, it will keep softening as it sits.

How to Serve One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe

orzo and chicken sausage - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

When I serve this skillet, I often sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A little grated Parmesan doesn’t hurt either; it melts beautifully into the warm orzo. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before plating works wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish is so filling on its own that I usually keep sides light and fresh—think a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus on the side. Crusty bread is great for mopping up any leftover sauce if you want a heartier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve served this skillet in mini cast iron skillets at the table, which feels rustic and charming. You could also add a colorful mix of sautéed mushrooms and peppers on top as a garnish or even finish the dish with a dollop of herbed Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep really well for up to 3 days. Before reheating, I like to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the orzo and bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes nicely, which makes it a great candidate for meal prep. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just be mindful to stir well during reheating to help redistribute the moisture.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming it gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water. Microwaving works too, but it helps to add moisture and cover the dish to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of sausage in the One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap chicken sausage for pork, beef, turkey, or even plant-based sausages depending on your preference. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the sausage type and thickness.

How do I prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan?

Stirring the orzo occasionally during simmering and using enough liquid are key to preventing it from sticking. Additionally, toasting the orzo before adding liquids helps create a protective coating on the pasta. Using a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet can also help.

Can I make this One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular orzo with a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as gluten-free orzo or a similar small pasta shape. Always double-check the chicken sausage ingredients to ensure it is gluten-free as well.

What should I do if my orzo isn’t fully cooked after simmering?

If your orzo isn’t fully cooked after the suggested simmer time, simply add a little more chicken broth or water, cover, and continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired tenderness. Avoid high heat as it can quickly dry out the dish.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Orzo and Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe is one of those meals I turn to when I want a satisfying home-cooked dinner without a lot of hassle. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and forgiving enough to customize any way you like. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it quickly becomes a favorite in your kitchen too.