One Pan Lemon Orzo with Ground Chicken and Sweet Sausage Recipe in 20 minutes

If you want a meal that feels special but comes together quickly, this lemon orzo with ground chicken and sweet sausage is a perfect choice. It’s bright, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet it only takes 20 minutes and one pan to make. This dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or complicated. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying, fresh meal with minimal cleanup.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This recipe is designed to be fast and fuss-free. Using ground chicken and sweet Italian sausage gives you a great mix of lean protein and rich flavor. The orzo cooks right in the broth, absorbing all the savory juices and lemon brightness. Adding spinach at the end keeps it fresh and colorful without extra effort. The Parmesan or cream cheese melts into the dish, creating a creamy texture that feels indulgent but light.

You don’t need multiple pots or complicated steps. Just one skillet, a handful of ingredients, and you’re set. The lemon zest and juice add a fresh zing that lifts the whole dish, making it taste like more than just a quick meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ pound sweet Italian sausage, casing removed

• ½ pound ground chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ½ onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup orzo pasta

• 3 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups baby spinach

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or 2 tablespoons cream cheese

• Zest and juice of ½ lemon

• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat

  
  

These ingredients are easy to find and come together quickly. The combination of sausage and ground chicken adds depth without being greasy. The orzo cooks fast and soaks up all the flavors, while the spinach adds a healthy boost.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Cook the meat: Add the sweet Italian sausage and ground chicken to the skillet. Break them up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.

3. Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step adds a nutty flavor and prevents the orzo from sticking.

4. Simmer with broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the liquid has reduced to a creamy consistency.

5. Add greens and creaminess: Stir in the baby spinach until wilted. Then add the Parmesan or cream cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.

6. Finish with lemon: Add the lemon zest and juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper if using.

   
   

Serve the dish hot with an optional drizzle of olive oil, extra Parmesan, and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.

Tips for Making the Best Lemon Orzo

• Use fresh lemon zest and juice: The brightness of fresh lemon is key to balancing the richness of the sausage and creaminess of the cheese.

• Don’t skip toasting the orzo: This simple step adds a subtle depth of flavor that makes a big difference.

• Adjust creaminess to your liking: Parmesan gives a sharper, salty finish, while cream cheese creates a smoother, richer texture.

• Add heat carefully: A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice contrast but keep it light if you prefer mild flavors.

• Use a wide skillet: This helps the orzo cook evenly and prevents overcrowding the pan.

  
  

Why Orzo Is a Great Choice for Quick Meals

Orzo cooks faster than most pasta shapes, making it ideal for quick dishes. It also absorbs flavors well, so it works perfectly in one-pan recipes like this. The small size means it cooks evenly and creates a creamy texture when simmered in broth. Plus, it pairs well with proteins and vegetables, making it a versatile base for many meals.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon orzo dish is satisfying on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a lighter touch, add a squeeze of extra lemon juice at the table.

Final Thoughts

This one-pan lemon orzo with ground chicken and sweet sausage is a great example of how quick cooking can still be delicious and comforting. It’s bright, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet ready in just 20 minutes. The recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen or dealing with lots of dishes.