One Pan Chicken Sausage, Vegetables, and Orzo Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This hearty one-pan dish is packed with flavor and comes together quickly for a satisfying meal. The savory chicken sausage pairs wonderfully with orzo, fresh vegetables, and a light wine-based sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound basil and cracked black pepper chicken sausage, such as Sabatinos, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup French-sliced green beans
• 1/2 cup matchstick-cut carrots
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning blend
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups orzo
• 1/2 cup marinated artichokes (optional)
• Fresh parsley sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a 12-inch skillet, warm the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter stops sizzling, add the sausage slices. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through, then add the diced onion.
3. Stir the sausage and onion together and cook for an additional 2 minutes before adding the mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 3 to 4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
5. Stir in the French-sliced green beans, matchstick carrots, and red bell pepper strips. Continue cooking and stirring for about 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the dry white wine and cook, stirring, for about 1 minute. Then, add the chicken broth and Italian herb seasoning blend. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the orzo and return to a boil.
8. Reduce the heat to medium-low and arrange the artichokes (if using) on top of the mixture. Let the dish simmer gently for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the pan. The orzo and vegetables should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	451
Total Fat	16g (21% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	4g (19% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	109mg (36% Daily Value)
Sodium	1309mg (57% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	36g (13% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	5g (18% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	34g (69% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	39mg (43% Daily Value)
Calcium	113mg (9% Daily Value)
Iron	5mg (30% Daily Value)
Potassium	790mg (17% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult a medical professional before making dietary changes.

History and Origins of One Pan Chicken Sausage, Vegetables, and Orzo

The combination of sausage, vegetables, and pasta has roots in European culinary traditions, particularly from Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Greece. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, often used in soups, salads, and baked dishes. The pairing of chicken sausage with vegetables and pasta emerged more recently in American kitchens, where cooks sought quick, wholesome meals that could be prepared in a single pan. This adaptation reflects both the influence of Mediterranean flavors and the modern preference for convenience without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is commonly associated with American home cooking, particularly in regions where Italian-American cuisine has a strong presence. Its versatility allows it to incorporate seasonal vegetables, which can vary depending on the region. In the Northeast, for example, chefs might add kale or Brussels sprouts, while in the South, bell peppers and okra could be featured. The use of chicken sausage instead of pork reflects a regional adaptation that prioritizes leaner proteins and broader dietary preferences.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While it shares similarities with pasta casseroles or traditional Italian skillet meals, this recipe is distinct for its use of orzo as the pasta base, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors efficiently. Unlike baked pasta dishes, it is cooked entirely on the stovetop, allowing vegetables to retain a crisp texture while the sausage imparts a rich, savory depth. The combination of wine, chicken broth, and Italian herb seasoning differentiates it from simpler sausage-and-vegetable sauts, giving it a balanced, layered flavor profile that is both light and hearty.

Typical Serving Contexts

This one-pan meal is ideal for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. It is often served directly from the skillet to preserve its warmth and colorful presentation. Restaurants focusing on American bistro or Italian-inspired cuisine might feature it as a lunch or dinner entre, sometimes garnished with fresh herbs or shaved Parmesan. Its one-pan nature makes it popular for meal prepping and potluck-style events, where simplicity and flavor are equally valued.

Interesting Facts

• Orzo pasta, though shaped like rice, is actually a type of wheat pasta and is prized for its ability to blend seamlessly with sauces and broths.
• Chicken sausage has grown in popularity in the U.S. over the past two decades as a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, offering lower fat and higher protein.
• The dish showcases a balance of macronutrientsprotein from the sausage, carbohydrates from orzo, and vitamins from the assortment of vegetablesmaking it a nutritionally complete meal.
• Its one-pan method reduces cleanup and maximizes flavor, as all ingredients cook together, allowing juices and seasonings to meld naturally.
• Despite being a relatively modern American creation, it draws inspiration from Mediterranean culinary principles, emphasizing fresh, simple ingredients cooked with care.

FAQ about One Pan Chicken Sausage, Vegetables, and Orzo Recipe

Comments