Chicken and sausage healthy recipes offer a delicious way to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Many folks believe that healthy food is dull, but chicken sausage can burst with taste and nutrition. These recipes are simple to whip up and perfect for any day of the week. For example, a Healthy Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet combines juicy sausage with fresh veggies in a rich sauce. (1)Or try a quick Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry that’s colorful and packed with goodness. There are so many tasty options to explore. Keep reading for more yummy ideas to make your meals healthier and satisfying!
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage is a tasty and healthy choice.
- These recipes are quick and easy to make.
- Adding vegetables makes meals healthier and more filling.
Healthy Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet
Ingredients
- 6-8 chicken sausages, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 2 shallots, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¾ cup frozen peas
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken Sausage:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken sausage pieces. Watching them sizzle and brown is hard to resist—around 5-7 minutes will do the trick. Once cooked, keep them aside; they’ll return shortly. - Cook the Vegetables:
Pour in olive oil, and then add those diced carrots first. They need a couple of minutes to soften. Next, toss in the sliced shallots to sweeten the dish as they cook together. - Add More Veggies:
After the shallots, stir in the chopped asparagus and minced garlic. Just a minute here gets those flavors mingling beautifully. - Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle in the flour, stir it around, and then add Dijon mustard and chicken stock, bringing everything to a lovely simmer. - Add Beans and Peas:
As it simmers, in go the frozen peas and rinsed cannellini beans. Let them simmer together for a few minutes. - Finish with Cream:
Add the heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and return the chicken sausage to the skillet, allowing it to soak in all the flavors. - Garnish and Serve:
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only looks great but adds a delightful pop of flavor.
This Healthy Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet isn’t just about taste. It’s a hearty hug served warm, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Switching over, the Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry with Vegetables is another quick and colorful favorite. It combines chicken sausage with bright bell peppers and zucchini, creating a fun and delicious meal that mimics a vibrant farmers’ market right in the skillet. (3)
Ingredients
- 4 chicken sausage links, sliced
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, chopped
- ½ red onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken Sausage:
In a heated skillet, the sliced chicken sausage dances around as it sauté until lightly browned. - Add the Vegetables:
Add a splash more oil, then in go the vibrant bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini. Stir them around until they become tender, about 4-5 minutes. - Combine Ingredients:
Toss the sausage back in with the veggies, mixing everything together gently. - Make the Sauce:
Whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chicken broth in a bowl. Pour it over the mix and stir well. - Simmer and Serve:
Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, letting those flavors meld together beautifully.
This Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry is quick and delightful, transforming a hectic weeknight into a colorful culinary adventure.
Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet
Credits: Cooking with Coit
Next in line, there’s the Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet, a comforting dish that comes together seamlessly in one pan, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 red potatoes, cubed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
Heat oil in a large skillet, toss in cubed red potatoes, and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. They need about 10-12 minutes to cook until tender. - Add the Chicken Sausage:
Once the potatoes are nice and soft, add the sausage to brown for about 5 minutes. - Incorporate the Vegetables:
Add in bell peppers, onion, and zucchini, sprinkling the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Sauté until everything is tender. - Final Touches:
Mix well and taste, adjusting with more seasoning if necessary.
This Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet is not just about ease; it’s a symphony of flavors that explains why home-cooked meals are the best.
Chicken Sausage with Cauliflower Rice
Then we have Chicken Sausage with Cauliflower Rice, a perfect low-carb dish that keeps things light yet filling, satisfying cravings without guilt.
Ingredients
- 12 oz sweet Italian chicken sausage, sliced
- 3 bell peppers, chopped
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 10 oz frozen cauliflower rice
- Olive oil spray
- Spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions:
Spray the skillet with olive oil and heat. Once hot, add the onions and sauté until they’re see-through, about 5 minutes. - Add the Bell Peppers:
Next, toss in the bell peppers, cooking till they’re soft—around 4-5 minutes. - Incorporate the Cauliflower Rice:
Stir in the frozen cauliflower rice along with the spices, cooking until heated through. - Mix in the Sausage:
Finally, add the sliced sausage, mixing gently, and warm everything up for a couple of more minutes.
This Chicken Sausage with Cauliflower Rice is packed with flavor, combining health and taste effortlessly.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage
Chicken sausage shines bright in the world of nutritious meats. Here’s a glimpse at its benefits:
- Low in Calories and Fat
People often switch to chicken sausage for its lower calorie and fat content compared to pork. This is especially helpful for those watching their weight but still wanting to enjoy delicious meals. - High in Protein
Chicken sausage brings in a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle growth and keeping you full longer. - Packed with Vitamins
Many kinds of chicken sausage provide B vitamins, which help the body use energy from food, perfect for those living an active lifestyle. - Enhanced Nutritional Value with Vegetables
Adding colorful veggies boosts fiber content, improving digestion, while adding vitamins and minerals to enhance overall nutrition.
Including chicken sausage in meals is a delicious way to enjoy great flavors and take a step towards a healthier lifestyle. It’s all about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring every bite together.
Conclusion
Chicken and sausage healthy recipes are both simple and delightful. They create flavorful meals packed with nutrition, making it easy to eat well. With these dishes, everyone can enjoy a healthy dinner that pleases the whole family. From creamy skillets to vibrant stir-fries, there’s no shortage of tasty options that transform everyday cooking. Dive into these recipes, and discover just how enjoyable healthy eating can be for everyone at the table!
FAQ
What are some healthy ways to cook chicken and sausage together?
For healthy chicken and sausage recipes, try baking or air frying the proteins. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts and sliced chicken or turkey sausages on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of avocado oil, and roast at 400°F until cooked through. You can also air fry the chicken and sausage for a quick, hands-off meal. Another option is to brown the sausage in a cast-iron skillet, then sauté diced vegetables like bell peppers and onions before adding the cooked chicken. Serve over whole grains like brown rice or cauliflower rice for a balanced, nutritious dinner.
How can I make a healthy chicken and sausage skillet?
A chicken and sausage skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that can be a healthy option. Start by cooking bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and sliced chicken or turkey sausage in a skillet with a little avocado oil. Once the proteins are browned, add diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and Brussels sprouts. Sauté until the veggies are tender-crisp. For extra flavor, season the dish with Cajun or Italian seasonings. Finish by stirring in cooked brown rice or pasta to make it a complete meal. This skillet comes together quickly for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
What are some healthy side dishes to serve with chicken and sausage?
To round out a chicken and sausage meal, try pairing it with wholesome side dishes. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or acorn squash make a great nutritious accompaniment. You can also serve it over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients. For a lighter option, a fresh salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can balance out the heartier proteins. Steamed or sautéed greens like spinach or kale are another healthy pairing. The key is to focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients.
Can I make chicken and sausage recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many chicken and sausage dishes can be prepped in advance for easy weeknight meals. You can cook the chicken and sausage ahead of time, then simply reheat and assemble the final dish when ready to serve. For example, you could bake or air fry the chicken and sausage, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, just warm them up and add to a skillet with prepped veggies. This makes for a quick, healthy dinner with minimal last-minute work.
What are some good chicken sausage brands for healthy recipes?
When selecting chicken sausage for healthy recipes, look for brands that use high-quality ingredients and minimal additives. Some good options include Al Fresco, which offers chicken sausages made with natural spices and no artificial preservatives. Aidells is another brand that makes tasty chicken and turkey sausages without nitrites or fillers. You can also find chicken sausages at your local grocery store or butcher that are made simply with chicken, herbs, and spices. Just be sure to read the nutrition labels and ingredient lists to find a brand that aligns with your dietary needs.
Referencess
- https://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/18948/ingredients/meat-poultry/sausage/chicken/
- https://www.eatloveeats.com/creamy-chicken-sausage-skillet-with-asparagus-and-peas/
- https://www.slenderkitchen.com/chicken-sausage-recipes
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/is-chicken-breakfast-sausage-healthy/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-diy/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-for-weight-loss-2/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
