Sausage and Rice Skillet (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Rice & Oil

01 - 1¼ cups white rice, uncooked
02 - 2 teaspoons olive oil

→ Protein & Vegetables

03 - 12 oz package smoked sausage, sliced
04 - ½ red bell pepper, sliced
05 - ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
06 - 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced
07 - 4 cloves garlic, minced

→ Seasonings & Sauce

08 - ½ teaspoon kosher sea salt
09 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 - 5 tablespoons tomato paste
11 - 1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
12 - 1 teaspoon paprika
13 - ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
14 - 1½ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - In a small saucepan, cook the white rice according to package directions until tender and fluffy. Set aside when done.
02 - Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and let it shimmer before adding other ingredients.
03 - Add the sliced sausage to the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, turning to brown on both sides. Remove from pan and set aside.
04 - Add the bell peppers and onion to the same skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften and develop some color.
05 - Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the vegetables and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove vegetables and set aside with the sausage.
06 - Add tomato paste and about ¾ cup of chicken broth to the skillet, whisking to combine. Let it simmer for 1 minute to develop the flavors.
07 - Stir in the paprika and cayenne pepper to the tomato mixture, combining well to create a flavorful base.
08 - Add the cooked rice, browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and remaining chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
09 - Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

# Notes:

01 - For an Italian version, use Italian sausage and add ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
02 - For a Cajun version, use andouille sausage and add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
03 - This dish is naturally dairy-free and stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days
04 - Can be frozen for 2-3 months - add a splash of broth when reheating to restore moisture