Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese

There’s something undeniably cozy about a bubbling skillet of pasta coming straight from the oven — especially when it’s packed with creamy Boursin cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory slices of chicken sausage. This Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese is the kind of dish that feels comforting yet light, indulgent yet wholesome, and best of all, it comes together in one pan.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born on one of those busy weeknights when the fridge felt almost empty — until I spotted some chicken sausage, a box of orzo, and a little round of Boursin cheese tucked behind a jar of pickles. With some cherry tomatoes from the counter and a few pantry staples, dinner came together faster than I expected, and more delicious than I hoped. Since then, this skillet has become a regular in my rotation — easy enough for a Tuesday, tasty enough for guests.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Orzo, despite looking like rice, is actually a short-cut pasta that originated in Italy. It’s perfect for skillet meals because it cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully. Boursin cheese, created in Normandy, France, is a creamy, herbed cheese that melts into dishes like a dream, adding both flavor and a velvety texture. When paired with lean chicken sausage and sweet cherry tomatoes, it turns into a meal that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese

This meal is quick, cozy, and endlessly craveable. Here’s why it’s going to be a weeknight staple.

Versatile: You can switch out the sausage, add more veggies, or use different cheeses.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry pasta, simple proteins, and minimal extras.

Quick and Easy: It all comes together in about 30 minutes and in just one pan.

Customizable: Use spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms if you want to change it up.

Crowd-Pleasing: Creamy, cheesy, and filled with familiar flavors everyone loves.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Pre-cook the sausage and chop veggies ahead of time.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want to take this skillet from good to “wow”? Here’s how.

• Lightly brown the chicken sausage for a deeper, richer flavor.
• Toast the orzo in the pan before adding liquid to give it a nutty, golden finish.
• Add the Boursin in chunks at the end so it melts in creamy pockets instead of disappearing completely.
• Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels, since sausage and cheese are already seasoned.
• Don’t skip the cherry tomatoes — they burst and add sweetness that balances the richness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a lot to make this dish shine — just the basics.

Large Oven-Safe Skillet or Casserole Dish: Perfect for both stovetop and oven baking.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the orzo and folding in the cheese.

Sharp Knife: To slice sausage and prep other ingredients.

Cutting Board: For easy ingredient handling.

Measuring Cups: To keep your liquid ratios just right.

Ingredients in Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese

These ingredients work together like a well-rehearsed symphony — creamy, savory, and just the right amount of bright.

1. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Used to sauté the sausage and add richness.
2. Chicken Sausage: 12 ounces, sliced. Brings savory flavor and lean protein.
3. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Adds aromatic depth and warmth.
4. Orzo Pasta: 1 ½ cups (uncooked). The heart of the dish that soaks up all the flavor.
5. Chicken Broth: 3 cups. Cooks the orzo while infusing savory flavor.
6. Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, whole. They burst as they bake, adding juiciness and sweetness.
7. Boursin Cheese (Garlic & Fine Herbs): 1 (5.2 oz) round. Melts into a creamy sauce that coats every bite.
8. Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, shredded. Adds a salty, nutty finish on top.
9. Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Brightens and balances the richness.
10. Salt and Pepper: To taste. Enhances the overall flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to make some swaps? No problem.

Chicken Sausage: Use turkey sausage, vegan sausage, or even rotisserie chicken.

Orzo: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or couscous can work too.

Boursin Cheese: Cream cheese with herbs or herbed goat cheese is a great substitute.

Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth or even water with a bouillon cube.

Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if dairy-free.

Ingredient Spotlight

Orzo: Often mistaken for rice, this pasta cooks quickly and absorbs broth and flavor in a way that makes it perfect for skillet meals.

Boursin Cheese: A soft, herbed cheese that melts into dishes for instant flavor and creaminess — no sauce-making required.

Instructions for Making Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese

It’s one of those meals that tastes like you spent hours on it — but it’s done in a flash. Here are the steps you’re going to follow.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if finishing in the oven. Otherwise, stovetop only is fine.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Then pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Stir in cherry tomatoes and reduce heat. Let orzo cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes until al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Add chunks of Boursin cheese across the surface and gently stir until partially melted. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Finishing Touches:
   If baking, transfer skillet to oven and bake uncovered for 5–7 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbling. Remove and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Spoon into bowls and serve warm. Pairs great with a side salad or roasted veggies.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This skillet delivers a lush combination of creamy orzo, juicy sausage bites, and bursts of tomato. The Boursin melts into a silky sauce that clings to every grain of pasta, while the Parmesan on top adds a salty, savory finish. Fresh herbs lift the whole dish, making it feel both hearty and light.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

These little tweaks go a long way:

• Stir orzo frequently to avoid sticking.
• Let the Boursin melt in chunks — don’t overmix.
• Add a splash of cream for extra richness.
• Sprinkle with chili flakes for a gentle kick.

What to Avoid

Keep your skillet creamy and flavorful by avoiding these missteps:

• Overcooking the orzo until mushy — al dente is best.
• Adding all the Boursin too early — it’ll disappear.
• Skipping the salt — taste as you go.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 490

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prep. You can cook the sausage and even toast the orzo ahead of time. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. Not freezer-friendly due to the cheese.

How to Serve Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese

Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic feel. Pair it with a leafy green salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans. It also works well as a side dish next to roasted chicken or fish.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Use what’s left in creative ways:

• Spoon into bell peppers and bake for stuffed veggie night.
• Add broth and turn it into a creamy soup.
• Toss with fresh greens for a warm orzo salad.

Additional Tips

• Try sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper tomato flavor.
• A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds brightness.
• Stir in spinach or kale during the last few minutes for extra veggies.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve in a cast iron skillet with extra herbs and cheese sprinkled over top. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil. It looks stunning and tastes even better.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Use spicy chicken sausage and red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap sausage for mushrooms or chickpeas.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in mozzarella or Fontina for extra melt.
• Pesto Boost: Add a spoonful of pesto to the finished dish.
• Creamy Dreamy: Mix in a bit of cream or crème fraîche.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep most components in advance and reheat when ready.

Q2: Is it okay to skip the oven step?
Absolutely. It’ll still be delicious if finished fully on the stovetop.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal, as the cheese may separate when thawed.

Q4: What’s the best sausage to use?
Any fully cooked chicken sausage — garlic herb or Italian works best.

Q5: Can I use another cheese instead of Boursin?
Yes, herbed goat cheese or whipped cream cheese are great alternatives.

Q6: Is orzo gluten-free?
Traditional orzo contains gluten. Use a gluten-free version if needed.

Q7: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Q8: How do I keep the orzo from getting mushy?
Keep an eye on the liquid and stir often. Remove from heat when just tender.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger skillet or a Dutch oven.

Q10: What other veggies work in this?
Zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers all fit in beautifully.

Conclusion

This Orzo Chicken Sausage Skillet with Boursin Cheese is everything a busy weeknight dinner should be — creamy, satisfying, and incredibly easy. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation. One pan, full flavor, and zero stress — what’s not to love?

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