Description
A cozy and creamy one-pan dinner made with tender orzo, savory chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and Parmesan, simmered together for a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups dry orzo
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes, parsley, lemon zest
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly.
- Add sliced chicken sausage and brown lightly.
- Pour in dry orzo and toast for one minute.
- Add chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until orzo is tender.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Adjust consistency with broth if needed and serve warm.
Notes
- Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Gluten-free pasta or rice-shaped alternatives may be substituted.
