Ingredients

1 pound chicken sausage, sliced (mild or spicy)

1 cup orzo pasta

4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup spinach, roughly chopped (fresh)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces, removing casings if using links.

Step 2: Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes and roughly chop the spinach; set aside.

Step 3: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 5: Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 6: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 7: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 8: Add the orzo pasta, stirring to ensure it’s submerged in the broth. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until al dente.

Step 9: Once the orzo is cooked, slowly stir in the heavy cream.

Step 10: Add the cooked chicken sausage, chopped spinach, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir until the spinach wilts and the sausage is heated through.

Step 11: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 12: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 13: Remove from heat and serve in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

Use spicy chicken sausage for a kick, or mild sausage if you prefer a gentler flavor.

Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added instead of dried oregano and basil for a brighter taste.

For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with milk or use a dairy-free cream alternative.

Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of orzo?

Yes, small pasta shapes like couscous, acini di pepe, or small shells work well, but cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the chicken sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.