Description
A creamy chicken sausage orzo skillet recipe that’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
- 12 oz (340 g) spicy Italian chicken sausage, casing removed if preferred
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (170 g) dry orzo pasta
- 2 cups (480 ml) low sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) coconut milk
- 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tsp (2.3 g) onion powder
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (1.5 g) salt
- 1 tsp (1 g) fresh or dried thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add 12 ounces of spicy Italian chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. The sausage should have a golden color, indicating it is done. Add 6 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Step 2: Add 1 cup dry orzo to the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir constantly and toast the orzo for about 60 seconds until it begins to lightly brown, absorbing flavors from the sausage and garlic. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Step 3: Pour in 2 cups low sodium chicken broth to deglaze the pan, stirring and scraping up any browned bits. Add 1/4 cup coconut milk, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme. Mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. The orzo is ready when tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, creating a creamy texture.
- Step 4: Stir in 2 cups baby spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Mix in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt, black pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place in a freezer container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- If the orzo sticks to the pan during simmering, stir frequently to distribute moisture evenly.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add chicken broth one tablespoon at a time to reach the desired creaminess.
- For stronger flavor, add an extra pinch of salt or extra red pepper flakes about 5 minutes before serving.
- If the spinach does not wilt easily, stir in a little warm water when adding it to the skillet to help it soften faster.
- When using gluten-free orzo, check the package instructions as cooking time and liquid absorption may differ.
- Serve with sautéed green beans or a fresh arugula salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with roasted cherry tomatoes or a light cucumber salad to add brightness and freshness.
- Use leftovers in wraps with fresh vegetables, as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, or mixed into veggie-loaded omelettes.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance flavor.
- Use different protein options such as turkey sausage if preferred, keeping the quantity at 12 oz (340 g).
- Adjust spice level by modifying red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or oregano as alternative herbs using 1 teaspoon fresh or dried.
- Choose high-quality spicy Italian chicken sausage with seasonings for best flavor and moisture.
- Select good quality orzo, either regular or whole wheat, as this tiny pasta holds sauce and adds appealing texture.
- Fresh garlic cloves finely minced provide superior aroma and flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Opt for low sodium chicken broth to better control the dish’s saltiness.
- Use fresh baby spinach with vibrant green leaves for optimum nutrition and color.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides better texture and taste over pre-grated varieties.
- Coconut milk adds a creamy texture; do not substitute with heavy cream for this recipe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg