I’ll never forget the first time I made this Chicken Sausage Recipe. It was a Tuesday night, and I was craving something comforting but still healthy. I had a package of chicken sausage in the fridge, so I started browsing recipes online. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem – a simple, flavorful dish that came together in just 35 minutes. I knew I had to try it.
As I gathered the ingredients and got to work, the aroma of sautéed garlic and sizzling sausage filled my kitchen. I couldn’t wait to dive in. When I took that first bite, I was blown away. The combination of tender chicken sausage, crisp veggies, and just the right amount of spice was absolute perfection. From that moment on, this Chicken Sausage Recipe became a regular in my dinner rotation.
Why This Chicken Sausage Recipe Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Chicken Sausage Recipe
What makes this Chicken Sausage Recipe so special? It’s all in the balance of flavors and textures. The key is to start with high-quality chicken sausage that’s been sliced into bite-sized pieces. This ensures every bite is packed with savory, juicy sausage flavor. Then, you’ll sauté the sausage in a bit of olive oil until it’s lightly browned and caramelized on the edges.
Next, you’ll add in a medley of fresh veggies – diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, sliced mushrooms, and chopped broccoli florets. The trick is to cook these just until they’re tender-crisp, preserving their vibrant colors and natural flavors. A sprinkle of dried oregano, smoked paprika, and optional crushed red pepper flakes ties everything together, creating a dish that’s both comforting and a little bit spicy.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this Chicken Sausage Recipe so delicious:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces: High-quality chicken sausage is the star of this dish. Look for a brand that’s flavorful but not too greasy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps sear the sausage and sauté the veggies to perfection.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: For a pop of color and a slightly sweet, crisp texture.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds depth of flavor and balances the other ingredients.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for enhancing the savory notes.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Lends an earthy, meaty quality to the dish.
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets: Provides a nutritious crunch.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an aromatic, Italian-inspired flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle, smoky note.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To balance and enhance all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Chicken Sausage Recipe Instructions
Preparing Your Chicken Sausage Recipe
This Chicken Sausage Recipe comes together in just 35 minutes – 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cook time. All you’ll need is a large skillet or wok, a cutting board, and a sharp knife. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by slicing the chicken sausage into 1-inch pieces. This ensures each bite is perfectly portioned and cooks evenly.
2- Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced sausage and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned on the edges.
3- Next, add the diced red bell pepper, yellow onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
4- Toss in the sliced mushrooms and chopped broccoli florets. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes, or until the veggies are tender-crisp and the broccoli turns a vibrant green.
5- Season the dish with dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little extra heat). Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the spices.
6- Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve your delicious Chicken Sausage Recipe hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra oregano or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Chicken Sausage Recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Use high-quality chicken sausage for the best flavor. Look for a brand that’s minimally processed and free of artificial ingredients.
- Cut the sausage and veggies into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – work in batches if needed to get a nice sear on the sausage.
- Keep a close eye on the broccoli to prevent it from overcooking and losing its vibrant color.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
Serving and Storing Your Chicken Sausage Recipe
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Sausage Recipe
This Chicken Sausage Recipe is the perfect weeknight meal, serving 4 hungry people. To round out the dish, I love to serve it with a fresh garden salad and a crusty piece of garlic bread. For a heartier meal, pair it with roasted potatoes or a side of whole grain rice or quinoa.
When it comes to beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime is a great accompaniment. And don’t forget, this recipe also makes a fantastic meal-prep option for busy weeks.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Chicken Sausage Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a skillet and warm it over medium heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
For longer-term storage, this recipe freezes beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the Chicken Sausage Recipe in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as directed above.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Chicken Sausage Recipe
Creative Chicken Sausage Recipe Variations
While this Chicken Sausage Recipe is already a delicious and versatile dish, there are plenty of ways to switch it up. Try using different types of sausage, like spicy Italian or andouille, for a flavor twist. You can also swap in different vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes, depending on what’s in season.
For a heartier meal, serve the Chicken Sausage Recipe over a bed of whole grain pasta or zucchini noodles. And if you’re in the mood for a one-pan meal, simply roast the sausage and veggies together on a sheet pan in the oven.
Making Chicken Sausage Recipe Diet-Friendly
To make this Chicken Sausage Recipe even more health-conscious, you can easily adapt it to suit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free chicken sausage. To make it vegan or vegetarian, replace the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly take, serve the Chicken Sausage Recipe over a bed of riced cauliflower instead of rice or pasta. And if you’re watching your sodium intake, be sure to use low-sodium chicken sausage and go easy on the added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This Chicken Sausage Recipe is very versatile. You can swap in Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even plant-based sausage if you prefer.
Q: How long does it take to make this Chicken Sausage Recipe?
A: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes total – 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this Chicken Sausage Recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q: How many servings does this Chicken Sausage Recipe make?
A: This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish.
Q: What if my veggies are not tender-crisp after the recommended cooking time?
A: If your vegetables are not quite tender-crisp after 4-5 minutes of cooking, simply continue sautéing them for an additional 1-2 minutes until they reach the desired texture.
Chicken Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Discover the ultimate Chicken Sausage Recipe – a quick, easy, and flavorful main dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken sausage is sautéed with colorful vegetables in a savory sauce for a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
3. Add the diced bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and chopped broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Season the mixture with dried oregano, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Serve the Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a saucier consistency, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the skillet. This recipe can also be made with any type of sausage or protein of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Chicken Sausage Recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to easy, flavorful weeknight dinners. With its perfect balance of savory sausage, crisp veggies, and just the right amount of spice, it’s no wonder it’s become a new favorite in my household.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and see for yourself how truly delicious it is. Let me know in the comments what you think, and be sure to share your own variations and adaptations. Enjoy!
