If you’re a busy individual juggling work, family, and everything in between, meal prepping is a game changer. But it can feel overwhelming if you’re new to cooking or trying to find healthy yet flavorful options. That’s why this creamy chipotle chicken sausage and orzo pasta recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold flavors without compromising on nutrition or freshness.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our privacy policy for details.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Meal Prep:
- Quick to Prepare: Using pre-cooked chicken sausage cuts down on cooking time and keeps the process simple.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The herbed cheese adds creaminess without heavy sauces, giving you rich taste with less effort.
- Balanced Nutrition: With protein from chicken sausage and carbs from orzo, this meal fuels your day efficiently.
- Freshness Boost: Cherry tomatoes bring a fresh, juicy bite that brightens the whole dish.
- Portion-Friendly: This recipe makes a perfect single serving or can be easily doubled for multiple meals.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps and minimal ingredients make this accessible even if you’re new to cooking.
- Versatile and Adaptable: You can swap the sausage for other pre-cooked proteins or switch up the herbs to keep things exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best ways to save time in the kitchen is by using pre-cooked proteins and flavorful cheeses like herbed cheese. The pre-cooked chipotle chicken sausage brings smoky, spicy notes while the creamy herbed cheese adds richness and depth. Together, they create a satisfying base for the dish. Adding fresh cherry tomatoes cuts through the creaminess with their natural acidity and juiciness, balancing the flavors and keeping the meal bright and vibrant.
Next time you plan your weekly meals, give this creamy chipotle chicken sausage and orzo pasta a try. It’s a simple, delicious, and nutritious option that will keep you energized and save you valuable time throughout your busy week.
Quick and Easy Recipe Steps:
- Cook the orzo pasta: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt if you like. Then, add ⅓ cup of orzo pasta and cook it according to the package instructions—usually about 7 to 9 minutes—until it’s tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside.
- Prepare the sausage and tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, slice the chipotle chicken sausage into about ¼-inch thick rounds. Then, wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half.
- Sauté the sausage and tomatoes: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (it should shimmer but not smoke), add the sliced sausage and cherry tomatoes. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sausage is warmed through and the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
- Combine pasta and cheese: Lower the heat to medium. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the pan with the sausage and tomatoes. Then, add 2 tablespoons of herbed cheese. Stir everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated and the cheese melts slightly, creating a creamy texture.
- Finish with parmesan: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese over the top. You can either stir it in for extra creaminess or leave it on top as a flavorful garnish before serving or storing your meal prep containers.
Additions and Substitutions:
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Protein swaps: Substitute the chipotle chicken sausage with pre-cooked turkey sausage, grilled chicken breast, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese options: If you don’t have herbed cheese, cream cheese or ricotta can work well to create creaminess. For a stronger flavor, try adding a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese.
- Spice it up: If you want more heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro can add a bright herbal note just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like couscous, small shells, or even quinoa work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions
How can I keep the orzo from sticking together during storage?
Toss the cooked orzo with a small drizzle of olive oil before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps prevent clumping and keeps it easier to reheat.
What if I don’t have herbed cheese?
You can substitute herbed cheese with cream cheese, ricotta, or a combination of cream cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Creamy Chipotle Chicken Sausage and Orzo Pasta
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
Video
Notes
Nutrition