5-Ingredient Chicken Sausage and Orzo Skillet

Calling all busy families and new moms! This 5-ingredient Chicken Sausage and Orzo Skillet is a lifesaver. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and is sure to please everyone at the table.

A Winning Weeknight Meal:

This recipe offers several benefits that make it ideal for busy weeknights:

• Simple and Speedy: With just 5 ingredients and less than 20 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for hectic schedules.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the one-skillet cooking method.
• Family-Friendly: The delicious combination of flavors makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, suitable for adults and children alike.
• Healthy and Balanced: This skillet meal offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.

More Than Just Easy: Flavorful and Healthy!

This recipe goes beyond convenience, boasting additional qualities:

• Restaurant-Worthy Taste: Despite its simplicity, the dish offers a satisfying and flavorful experience, reminiscent of a fancy restaurant meal.
• Light and Healthy: Free from heavy creams, butter, or oils, this recipe caters to those seeking a healthier option.

Perfect Ingredients for Busy Homes:

The author shares her experience and highlights the convenience of the chosen ingredients:

• Pre-cooked Sausage: Chicken sausage is often pre-cooked, saving time and simplifying the cooking process.
• Versatile Veggies: Spinach and cherry tomatoes are versatile ingredients that can be easily incorporated into various dishes.

Ready to Whip Up a Quick and Easy Meal? Here’s the Recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (about 12 ounces) chicken sausage, casings removed and sliced
• 1 cup uncooked orzo
• 5 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Heat and Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned and heated through, about 5 minutes.

2. Incorporate the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir to coat the orzo with the sausage drippings.

3. Pour in the Broth: Pour in 2 1/3 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover the skillet and cook according to package instructions for orzo, about 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Add the Veggies: Stir in the baby spinach and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened.

5. Season and Serve: Season the skillet with garlic salt and Italian seasoning to taste. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or spicy chorizo.
• For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream cheese to the cooked skillet towards the end.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts:

This 5-Ingredient Chicken Sausage and Orzo Skillet is a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy meals can be prepared quickly and easily. With minimal ingredients and cleanup, this recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!