Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering dish that will make your taste buds dance! This roasted tomato chicken sausage orzo is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the sweetness of caramelized cherry tomatoes, the rich flavor of perfectly browned chicken sausage, and the comforting texture of creamy orzo. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they start to burst and caramelize.
- While tomatoes are roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine orzo pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed and orzo is tender.
- Remove roasted tomatoes from the oven and set aside.
- Add cooked orzo to the skillet with chicken sausage, gently mixing to combine.
- Fold in the roasted cherry tomatoes, ensuring even distribution.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer to serving plates and garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves.
- Serve hot and enjoy your roasted tomato chicken sausage orzo.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Select fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality chicken sausage for the best flavor.
- Roasting Technique: Don't rush the tomato roasting process. Let them caramelize and burst to develop deep, sweet flavors.
- Prevent Orzo Sticking: Stir the orzo occasionally while cooking and use the right liquid-to-pasta ratio to ensure a perfect, creamy texture.
- Seasoning Hack: Toast your Italian seasoning in the olive oil for 30 seconds before adding other ingredients to enhance its flavor.
- Fresh Herb Finish: Add fresh basil just before serving to maintain its bright color and aromatic qualities.
- One-Pan Variation: For easier cleanup, you can cook the sausage and finish the dish in the same skillet used for roasting tomatoes.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different types of sausage or add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
