Description
This creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet is the perfect one-pan meal for busy nights. With tender spicy Italian chicken sausage, creamy coconut milk (or heavy cream), and perfectly cooked orzo, it’s a comforting dish with just the right amount of heat. Fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese add a delicious finishing touch.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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12 oz spicy Italian chicken sausage, sliced
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup orzo, dry
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (or heavy cream)
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1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/4 tsp salt
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1 tsp fresh or dried thyme
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cups baby spinach leaves
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the orzo and stir for 1 minute to toast slightly.
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Pour in the chicken broth, coconut milk (or heavy cream), soy sauce, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Stir to combine.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in the cooked sausage, spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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For extra creaminess, you can add a little more coconut milk or cream to the dish.
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If you prefer a milder version, you can use regular Italian chicken sausage instead of spicy.
- You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired