Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet
A comforting one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken sausage, creamy flavors, and nutritious spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil For cooking
- 12 oz spicy Italian chicken sausage, sliced Can substitute with different types of sausage
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup orzo, dry Can substitute with other small pasta or rice
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- 1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk or heavy cream To make it creamy
- 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust according to spice preference
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt To taste
- 1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese For mixing in and garnishing
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves Can add more vegetables if desired
Instructions
Cooking
- Drizzle olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the dry orzo to the skillet, toasting for about 60 seconds while stirring.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, then add the coconut milk, soy sauce, seasonings, and fresh thyme. Mix everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After simmering, stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, then mix in the parmesan cheese.
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
Serve hot from the skillet, garnished with more parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. Pairs well with a green salad or crusty bread. For leftovers, cool completely, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding broth if necessary to loosen.