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One Pan Creamy Orzo with Chicken Sausage

A comforting dish with tender orzo, savory chicken sausage, and vibrant spinach, all cooked in rich chicken broth, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chicken Sausage, comfort food, Creamy Orzo, Family Meal, One-Pan Dinner
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil adds a healthy richness
  • 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced savory and satisfying
  • 1 onion, chopped enhances the flavor base
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced aromatic and pungent
  • 1 cup orzo pasta tiny pasta that absorbs flavors
  • 4 cups chicken broth rich and savory, the soul of the dish
  • 1 cup heavy cream for a velvety finish
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped fresh, green, and vibrant
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese nutty and creamy
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste essential seasoning
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) a pop of color and freshness

Instructions

Preparation

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  • Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Cooking

  • Stir in the orzo pasta and toast it slightly for 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and the cooked sausage, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  • Remove from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Season generously with salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a crispy texture, sauté the sausage longer. You can include other veggies for added nutrition, add red pepper flakes for heat, or use different cheeses for variation. Top with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.