Description
A quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring Italian chicken sausage, tender orzo, and vibrant baby spinach, all finished with creamy coconut milk and parmesan for a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Pan Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 12 oz package mild Italian chicken sausage (4 sausages), cut into 1” chunks
- 2 cups dry orzo
- 4 cups chicken broth or chicken bone broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup canned full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 5 oz baby spinach
- Crushed red pepper for serving (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Saute Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking and stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
- Cook Chicken Sausage: Add the chicken sausage pieces to the skillet and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the sausage is golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
- Toast Orzo: Stir in the dry orzo, tossing it in the pan for 1 minute to lightly toast it and enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and ½ cup of coconut milk (or heavy cream). Season with ¼ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the orzo is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the baby spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the creamy orzo mixture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Serve the dish hot, garnished with extra parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or arugula for a different leafy green option.
- Using bone broth enhances flavor and adds extra nutrients.
- For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk and omit parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Make sure to cut the sausage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Simmering with the lid on helps the orzo cook evenly and absorb flavors well.
