Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Orzo Pasta: Stir in the orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast slightly. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until orzo absorbs most of the liquid and becomes tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add Chicken Sausage and Spinach: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach for added greens and nutrients.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute coconut milk or almond cream.
- Enhance flavor with herbs like basil or thyme.
- Mix in vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Includes Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg