Chicken Sausage and Brussels Sprouts: A Tasty and Easy Dinner
Chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts create a tasty and nutritious meal that’s simple to prepare. This duo is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as part of a meal prep routine. With a little creativity, these ingredients can be transformed into a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy.
Keep reading for quick recipes and helpful tips that will make this meal stand out on any table! Whether someone is a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish offers ease and flavor that anyone can appreciate.
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage is a tasty and low-fat protein choice.
- Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and low in calories.
- Sheet pan meals make cooking easy and cleanup a breeze.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage and Brussels Sprouts
Chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts are both delicious and nutritious options that bring plenty of benefits to the table.
Chicken Sausage
- Lean Protein Source: Chicken sausage offers a lower fat content compared to traditional pork sausage. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to enjoy flavorful meals without the extra calories.
- Variety of Flavors: Available in a range of flavors—from apple to spicy Italian—chicken sausage adds excitement to every dish and caters to different taste preferences.
Brussels Sprouts
- Nutrient-Rich: Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune function and bone health. They also contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
- Low in Calories: With a low calorie count and high fiber content, Brussels sprouts can support weight management. They are filling, making them a great choice for satisfying meals without excessive calories.
Together, chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts create a balanced and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat. (1)
Cooking Methods for Chicken Sausage and Brussels Sprouts
There are several simple ways to cook chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts. Two popular methods are sheet pan meals and stir-fry.
Sheet Pan Meals
Sheet pan meals are easy and fun to prepare. Everything cooks together on one pan, so cleanup is a breeze.
- Ingredients:
- 4 fully cooked chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 lb potatoes, cubed
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried oregano and basil
- Optional: A drizzle of maple syrup or mustard glaze for extra flavor
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss together the sliced sausages, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes with a generous splash of olive oil and all the seasonings.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes. The veggies should be fork-tender and have a nice golden brown color.
This method blends the flavors beautifully and results in a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
Stir-Fry
Stir-frying is a quick and tasty way to prepare this dish. It’s fast, flavorful, and keeps the veggies crisp.
- Ingredients:
- 2 links of chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups thinly sliced Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Shallots or garlic, minced
- Optional: Fresh lemon juice for a zesty touch
- Instructions:
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced shallots or garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Toss in the Brussels sprouts and stir-fry until they are tender yet still bright green.
- Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it’s warmed through.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a burst of freshness.
This speedy method not only makes the dish come together quickly but also retains the delightful crunch of the sprouts, adding to the meal’s overall texture and flavor.
Recipe Variations for Chicken Sausage and Brussels Sprouts
Credits: ThatDudeCanCook
Chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts can be enjoyed in many creative ways. Here are some tasty variations to try out.
- Fall-Inspired Sheet Pan Meal:
This dish brings together the flavors of fall. It combines chicken sausage with sweet potatoes, apples, walnuts, and Brussels sprouts.
- Ingredients:
- 4 fully cooked chicken sausages, sliced
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed
- 1 apple, sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- Olive oil
- Honey mustard sauce
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken sausage, sweet potatoes, apple slices, walnuts, and Brussels sprouts.
- Drizzle with olive oil and honey mustard sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the sprouts are golden.
This meal is not only colorful but full of seasonal flavors.
- Pasta Dish:
A pasta dish featuring chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts makes a quick and comforting meal.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 2 links of chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced Brussels sprouts and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced chicken sausage and cook until heated through.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the pan, adding lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of reserved pasta water for creaminess. Season with salt and pepper.
This dish is warm, filling, and packed with flavor.
- Harvest Bowl:
A harvest bowl is a great way to make a nutritious meal with heartiness and color.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, roasted
- 2 links of chicken sausage, sliced
- ½ cup cranberries (dried or fresh)
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Dressing of choice (like balsamic vinaigrette)
- Instructions:
- Prepare the quinoa or brown rice as directed on the package.
- Roast the Brussels sprouts by tossing them with olive oil and seasoning, then baking at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- In a bowl, layer the quinoa or rice, roasted Brussels sprouts, and sliced chicken sausage.
- Top with cranberries and crumbled feta.
- Drizzle with dressing before serving.
This bowl is colorful, filling, and offers a blend of textures and flavors that make every bite enjoyable. (2)
Conclusion
Chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts offer a tasty and healthy option for meals. They can be prepared in various ways to suit different preferences and diets. Packed with nutrients and easy to cook, these ingredients are ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Give these recipes a try, and enjoy a flavorful dish that everyone will love!
FAQ
Can I use apple chicken sausage or Italian chicken sausage?
Yes, you can definitely use apple chicken sausage or Italian chicken sausage in this recipe. Both of these variations would pair nicely with the brussels sprouts. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would for regular chicken sausage.
How can I make this dish low-carb?
To make this dish low-carb, you can skip the pasta and instead serve the chicken sausage and brussels sprouts over cauliflower rice or alongside a side salad. You can also use a low-carb sweetener like maple syrup instead of regular maple syrup.
Can I bake the chicken sausage and brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can bake the chicken sausage and brussels sprouts instead of cooking them on the stovetop. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), toss the brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then add the chicken sausage and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can easily add other vegetables to this dish, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or butternut squash. Simply toss the additional vegetables with the brussels sprouts and roast them together in the oven.
Can I use avocado oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use avocado oil instead of olive oil in this recipe. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, so it’s great for roasting and sautéing at higher temperatures.
How can I make a honey mustard sauce for this dish?
To make a honey mustard sauce, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and a bit of lemon juice. Start with a 1:1 ratio of mustard to honey, and adjust the amounts to your desired taste. You can drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the chicken sausage and brussels sprouts before serving.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prepping. Simply roast the brussels sprouts and cook the chicken sausage as directed, then divide the components into individual meal prep containers. Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat the dish in the microwave or oven.
Can I use pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?
Yes, you can use pork sausage instead of chicken sausage in this recipe. The cooking process will be similar, and pork sausage will also pair well with the brussels sprouts. Just be sure to check the package instructions for the pork sausage and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use a cast iron skillet to cook this dish?
Absolutely! Using a cast iron skillet is a great option for this recipe. The cast iron will help to evenly distribute the heat and create a nice, crispy texture on the brussels sprouts and sausage. Just be sure to preheat the skillet before adding the ingredients.
Can I add butternut squash to this dish?
Yes, you can definitely add butternut squash to this dish. Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash, then toss it with the brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper before roasting. The sweetness of the butternut squash will complement the other flavors nicely.
How can I make this dish in the air fryer?
To make this dish in the air fryer, simply toss the trimmed and halved brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Arrange the brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, add the cooked chicken sausage to the basket and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is heated through.
References:
- https://thehungrylyoness.com/sauteed-brussel-sprouts-with-chicken-sausage/
- https://nerdswithknives.com/one-pan-chicken-sausage-and-brussels-sprouts/
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-with-feta-and-spinach-2/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/top-chews-chicken-apple-sausage-bites/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/spicy-chicken-sausage/
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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.
