Description
Enjoy a comforting bowl of creamy chicken sausage orzo, featuring savory chicken sausage, tender orzo pasta, and fresh vegetables enveloped in a rich sauce. This satisfying dish is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, delivering delicious flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (preferably mild Italian sausage)
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
- Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces, removing casings if using links.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it; if using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add orzo pasta, stirring to distribute evenly. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in heavy cream, then add the cooked chicken sausage, chopped spinach, oregano, and basil. Mix until spinach wilts and sausage is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The orzo may absorb more liquid, so consider adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- To reheat, warm in a pot over low heat or microwave in a bowl, adding a little extra liquid if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes