Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo
A delightful one-pan meal bursting with flavors, featuring chicken sausage, creamy goodness, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Protein
- 12 oz Chicken Sausage, sliced Use cheddar, feta, or your favorite variety. Ensure fully cooked.
Starch/Pasta
- 1 cup Orzo Pasta No need to pre-cook; it cooks in the broth.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika Toasted spices can enhance flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
Liquids/Dairy
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Use low-sodium to control saltiness.
- 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter option.
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 0.5 cup Onion, finely chopped Chop for even cooking.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Sauté until fragrant.
- 1 cup Spinach or Kale Fold in until wilted; can substitute with seasonal greens.
- 0.5 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Adds flavor and color.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- 0.25 cup Chopped Parsley For garnish.
- 0.5 cup Grated Cheese Cheddar adds creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Brightens the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Stir in the orzo pasta and pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Reduce heat to low and mix in the heavy cream, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat through for about 2 minutes.
- Fold in the spinach or kale and shredded cheese, stirring until the greens wilt and the cheese melts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
Serving
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest, and serve hot.
Notes
Enhance flavor by sautéing the sausage until crispy; customize with any seasonal vegetables. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.