Can a dinner be both delicious and easy?
Let’s face it: weeknight meals can feel like a chore, but not with this Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe! Imagine digging into a hearty, creamy dish without having to scrub every pot in your kitchen afterward. It’s one of those recipes that’s not just quick; it’s a viral sensation! Perfect for those days when you crave comfort without the fuss.
Why make this recipe?
Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
- One-pan wonder: Less time cleaning means more time for chilling on the couch. Who doesn’t love that?
- Kid-approved: With its mild flavors and creamy goodness, it’s a surefire hit for even the pickiest eaters.
- Budget-friendly: You can whip up a dinner full of flavors without breaking the bank — hallelujah!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 12 Ounces Chicken and Apple Sausage (I used the brand Applegate!)
- 4 Cups Cubed Butternut Squash
- 3 Cups Chicken Broth
- 3-4 Cups Baby Spinach
- 1 Cup Uncooked Basmati Rice
- 1 Sweet Onion, Diced
- 2-4 Cloves of Garlic, Minced
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper
Directions
Getting this creamy delight on your table is super simple! Follow these steps:
- Slice and sauté: Thinly slice the chicken sausage and add it to a large pan with olive oil. Sauté on medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Once done, set the sausage aside.
- Mix the veggies: In the same pan, toss in a bit more olive oil along with cubed butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pan and stir every few minutes until the squash becomes tender.
- Blend it up: Once the squash is tender, pour in the chicken broth and use an immersion blender to create a creamy sauce. (You can also transfer to a blender if that’s what you have!)
- Combine everything: Add the uncooked rice and the cooked chicken sausage into the creamy goodness, and stir well. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low until ready.
- Finish it off: Fold in the baby spinach and serve hot!
How to make Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice Recipe (Overview)
This dish is all about simplicity! Start by sautéing your sausage to get those savory flavors popping. Then, soften the squash and mix in the aromatic garlic and onion – yum! Once your veggies are tender, blend everything with the chicken broth to achieve that dreamy creaminess we crave. Add the rice and sausage back in, let it simmer, and finish off with fresh spinach. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it adds that extra layer of flavor!
How to serve Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice Recipe
This dish is all about vibrant colors and comforting aromas. Serve it in a deep bowl, letting the creamy sauce pool beautifully around the rice and sausage. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added kick. Pair it with a side salad for some freshness — the crunch will complement the creaminess perfectly!
How to store Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice Recipe
Leftovers? No problem! This dish can hang out in the fridge for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, place it in the freezer and enjoy it up to 3 months later. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep that creamy texture alive — nobody wants a dry dinner, right?
Tips to make Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice Recipe
- Timing is key: Make sure to sauté the sausage until golden; that caramelization brings in tons of flavor.
- Dial it up: Interested in a little more spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
- Ingredient swaps: Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or chard if you’re feeling adventurous!
Variation
Want to change it up? Try using cranberry sausage for a sweet-tart twist, or add in some roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Vegan? Swap the sausage for chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare a day in advance and reheat when ready to serve for an easy weeknight meal.
What can I substitute for the chicken sausage?
Any cooked sausage will do! Alternatively, use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yep! Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Thinly slice the chicken sausage and add it to a large pan with olive oil. Sauté on medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Once done, set the sausage aside.
- In the same pan, toss in a bit more olive oil along with cubed butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pan and stir every few minutes until the squash becomes tender.
- Once the squash is tender, pour in the chicken broth and use an immersion blender to create a creamy sauce. (You can also transfer to a blender if that's what you have!)
- Add the uncooked rice and the cooked chicken sausage into the creamy goodness, and stir well. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low until ready.
- Fold in the baby spinach and serve hot!