Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Chicken Spinach Sausage recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of savory chicken sausage, tender spinach, and aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection in a single pan for easy cleanup. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage (Italian or your favorite flavor), sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Cook the sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
Wilt the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will release some liquid, helping to create a delicious sauce.
Simmer and finish: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes now.
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately over pasta, rice, quinoa, or enjoy it as is. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Choose your sausage: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of chicken sausage. Sun-dried tomato, apple cider, or even spicy chorizo would all be delicious.
- Don't overcook the spinach: Overcooked spinach can become mushy. Cook it just until it wilts.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
Variations:
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
- Lemon herb twist: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon along with some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a bright and flavorful twist.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over a bed of cooked pasta or rice for a satisfying and complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and serving size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients. However, expect a meal relatively low in calories and high in protein.
This Chicken Spinach Sausage recipe is a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!