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Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 53 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A creamy and comforting one-pan meal featuring tender orzo pasta cooked in a savory chicken broth with flavorful chicken sausage, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Toast the orzo: Stir in the orzo pasta and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the orzo and enhance its flavor.
  4. Simmer the orzo: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Add cream and greens: Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and baby spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  6. Combine and season: Return the cooked chicken sausage to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use mild or spicy chicken sausage based on your flavor preference.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
  • Fresh spinach can be swapped with kale or Swiss chard if desired.
  • Make sure to stir the orzo occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.