One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice
This One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe is an absolute gem for anyone looking to whip up a delicious, comforting meal without the fuss of multiple dishes. This dish combines the savory flavors of chicken sausage with the sweetness of butternut squash, all nestled on a bed of fluffy basmati rice. Not only is it satisfying and hearty, but it also provides a nutritious option that is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
A Personal Story Behind My One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice Journey
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and inviting. The aroma of the chicken sausage sizzling in olive oil filled the kitchen, and my family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It became a staple in our household, and I love how it brings everyone together, creating memories over a comforting meal that is both easy to prepare and delightful to eat.
What Makes This One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice Recipe Special?
What truly sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the ability to cook everything in one pot. This not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together. The chicken sausage adds a delicious protein boost, while the butternut squash provides a lovely sweetness and a vibrant pop of color. Plus, with the addition of baby spinach, you get a nutritious dose of greens that makes this dish even healthier. It’s versatile, too; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to make it your own!
The Full One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces chicken and apple sausage, sliced
- 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
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the cubed butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pan and stir every few minutes until the butternut squash is tender, approximately 10-15 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on the squash to ensure it doesn’t burn.
- Once the butternut squash is tender, pour in the chicken broth. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture into a creamy sauce. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Tip: Be cautious with hot liquids when blending.
- Stir in the uncooked basmati rice and the cooked chicken sausage. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. Tip: Check the rice occasionally and add more broth if needed.
- Finally, fold in the baby spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. Serve hot and enjoy! Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can also serve it with a side salad to add some freshness. If you’re looking for variations, consider substituting the basmati rice with quinoa for a different texture, or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mix. This meal can easily be made ahead of time and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner on busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether and add more vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this One Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe container. It should last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
One Pot Chicken Sausage And Rice
Equipment
- Large Pan For cooking the entire dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces chicken and apple sausage, sliced
- 4 cups cubed butternut squash
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
- 1 unit sweet onion, diced
- 2 - cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and sauté until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the cubed butternut squash, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pan and stir every few minutes until the butternut squash is tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Once the butternut squash is tender, pour in the chicken broth. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture into a creamy sauce. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
- Stir in the uncooked basmati rice and the cooked chicken sausage. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Finally, fold in the baby spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!