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–+ servings

One Pan Creamy Tomato Sauce Orzo and Chicken Sausage

This easy one pan meal combines creamy tomato sauce with tender orzo and hearty chicken sausage for a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

For sautéing

  • 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing

Protein

  • 5 links fully cooked Italian chicken sausage sliced

Flavor base

  • 1/2 piece yellow onion diced
  • 5 cloves garlic minced

Pasta

  • 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta texture

Liquids and consistency

  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth liquid base
  • 1/3 cup crushed tomatoes for sauce consistency
  • 1 cup heavy cream for richness

Vegetables and seasonings

  • 1/3 cup jarred roasted red peppers chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika for smoky flavor
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning herb blend
  • 1/4 tsp salt enhances flavor
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper adds heat
  • red pepper flakes to taste red pepper flakes for spiciness
  • 1 cup baby spinach chopped for freshness

Finishing touches

  • 1/2 piece lemon juice of 1/2 lemon for brightness
  • parmesan cheese for serving Parmesan cheese savory topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
  • In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Cooking

  • Stir in 1 cup of uncooked orzo and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add the chopped roasted red peppers, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Increase heat to bring to a light simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until orzo is tender.
  • Stir in the chopped baby spinach until wilted (1-2 minutes).
  • Mix in crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Simmer for another 3-5 minutes to thicken.
  • Squeeze in lemon juice and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Notes

Use high-quality chicken sausage for best flavor. Adjust heat when simmering to maintain a gentle bubble. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
Keyword Chicken Sausage, creamy tomato sauce, Easy Recipe, One Pan Meal, Orzo
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