5-Ingredient Chicken Sausage and Orzo Skillet
A Quick, Easy, and Family-Friendly Meal
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:
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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.
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Incorporate the Orzo: Add the uncooked orzo to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Stir to coat the orzo with the sausage drippings.
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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.
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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.
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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!