Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Sausage with Spinach and Feta recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and offers a satisfying blend of savory chicken sausage, tender spinach, and salty feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts looking for easy recipes and best recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. It's a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, casings removed (or Italian sausage for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sausage: Remove the casings from the chicken sausage and slice it into half-inch thick rounds. This ensures even cooking and a better distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
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Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the sausage is heated thoroughly before proceeding.
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Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even wilting. The spinach will reduce in volume significantly.
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Combine and Simmer: Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This gentle simmering helps the cheese melt and the flavors to fully develop.
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Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is delicious on its own, or you can serve it over pasta, rice, or quinoa for a heartier meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of sausage, it’s best to cook it in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or oregano adds a delightful freshness to the dish.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Chicken Sausage: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon along with some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a bright and aromatic twist.
- Creamy Sausage: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken sausage for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using 1 pound of chicken sausage and is an estimate, it may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams
This Chicken Sausage with Spinach and Feta recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and an easy recipe that delivers delicious results every time. Enjoy!