Chicken sausage and eggplant make a solid pair for quick dinners. Brown sliced chicken sausage (sweet or spicy works), roast or grill chunks of eggplant, then toss with tomatoes, garlic, and maybe some cheese. Throw it all on a sheet pan, bake, or just sauté in a skillet. Works with any pasta shape or skip pasta for a gluten-free meal. Add whatever veggies are in season, zucchini, peppers, even spinach. It’s flexible, filling, and comes together fast, probably under 40 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Browning chicken sausage and properly prepping eggplant creates deep flavor in every recipe.
- Versatile techniques like roasting, grilling, and sheet pan cooking make these meals fit your schedule.
- Swaps and add-ins (different sausage, extra veggies, gluten-free tweaks) let you customize for any dietary need.
Chicken Sausage and Eggplant Signature Recipes
Chicken Sausage & Eggplant Pasta
Nothing smells more like home than garlic hitting hot oil. For this pasta, start by browning about 12 ounces of chicken sausage (casings off, crumbled) in a big skillet with a splash of olive oil.[1] Use spicy if you want a little heat, sweet if you’re after mellow. Once the sausage caramelizes, scoop it out. Toss in one large diced eggplant and two cups of cherry tomatoes or one can of tomatoes. Let the eggplant get soft, the tomatoes break down, and add a head’s worth of roasted garlic (or just two cloves, minced, if you’re short on time).Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Return the sausage, let it all simmer for up to an hour if you have it, shorter if not. Boil a pound of pasta (farfalle or penne hold up best), toss everything together, and finish with a shower of grated Parmesan.
Variations & Tips
- Use whatever pasta you’ve got, rigatoni, spaghetti, even broken lasagna sheets.
- Jarred marinara works for busy nights.
- Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day, so it’s a solid choice for meal prep.
Chicken Sausage Stuffed Eggplant
Eggplant halves make a smart vessel for sausage and cheese, no fancy tools required. Halve two medium eggplants, scoop the insides (leave about a quarter inch shell), sprinkle with salt, and let them sit while you prep the filling.Brown a half pound of chicken sausage in a skillet, add a chopped onion, a clove of garlic, and the reserved eggplant flesh (chopped). Cook until everything softens. Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or mushrooms if you like, then fold in a half cup of mozzarella, one beaten egg, and a splash (about a third cup) of marinara.Stuff the eggplant shells, top with mozzarella and, if you’re not gluten-free, a little panko mixed with Parmesan. Bake at 350°F for about 50 minutes until golden. Let it cool a bit so it sets up.
Variations & Dietary Adjustments
- Make it gluten-free by skipping panko or using gluten-free crumbs.
- Swap in what’s around, kale, red peppers, even a handful of leftover rice.
Baked Ziti with Roasted Eggplant & Chicken Sausage
Baked pasta feels like a reward at the end of a long week. Cube one large eggplant, toss it with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of cinnamon (it brings out the eggplant’s sweetness), then roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes.Sauté sliced apple chicken sausage in a skillet until browned. Combine roasted eggplant, sausage, a pound of cooked ziti, two cups of tomato sauce, and a cup each of mozzarella and Parmesan in a big baking dish. Bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden, about 35 minutes.
Flavor Enhancements
- Cinnamon and apple sausage add warmth and a little sweetness.
- Try spicy sausage for a sharper flavor.
- Add extra cheese on top if you want a crispy crust.
Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage, Eggplant, and Peppers
This one’s for the days when you want less mess. Cut one large eggplant, two bell peppers, and a red onion into chunks. Slice two chicken sausages. Spread everything on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning.Roast at 425°F for 45 minutes, stirring halfway so the edges caramelize. Serve with crusty bread, over rice, or as the main event.One pan, one cutting board, maybe a bowl for tossing. That is it. Pro tip: Line your sheet with parchment for easy cleanup, and to prevent sweet potatoes from sticking and tearing. This one pan meal approach saves time and your future self will thank you at the sink.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add zucchini, potatoes, or whatever’s in season.
- Leftovers make great filling for flatbread sandwiches with feta.
Mediterranean and Grilled Chicken Sausage Eggplant Dishes
There’s a reason eggplant and chicken sausage show up together in Mediterranean kitchens. The flavors travel well, and the recipes adapt to what’s on hand.
Chicken Sausage & Eggplant Caponata Sandwiches
Grill thick eggplant slices, red onion, and chicken sausage. Chop grilled veggies, toss with olives, fresh basil, minced garlic, and a splash of red wine vinegar for a quick caponata.Pile grilled sausage into a whole-wheat bun, spoon caponata over the top. You can serve the topping warm or cold, depending on your mood (or how hot the kitchen is).
Chicken Sausage & Eggplant Rollatini
Slice eggplant, zucchini, and yellow squash into long, thin pieces. Brush with olive oil, grill until tender but not falling apart.[2] Spread with basil pesto, lay a piece of grilled chicken sausage on each, and roll up. Skewer to hold, reheat briefly on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a starter or next to a big salad as a lighter main course.
- These hold up well at room temp, making them good for picnics.
Essential Cooking Techniques and Ingredient Insights
Credit: Food Network
A lot of folks skip eggplant because it can get soggy or bitter. There’s a fix for that.
Eggplant Preparation and Flavor Development Techniques
- Salt eggplant slices, let them sit for at least 20 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. It pulls out bitterness and extra water.
- Roast eggplant on high heat, spaced apart, to get caramelized edges.
- For grilling, brush slices with olive oil so they don’t stick and burn.
Chicken Sausage Selection and Usage
- Sweet, spicy, or apple chicken sausage each brings a different vibe. Try using what you like or what’s discounted at the store.
- Don’t be afraid of chicken sausage bake styles or precooked sausage, which works just fine, but browning it in a hot pan gives flavor.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
- Store leftovers in airtight containers, use within three to four days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep things crisp, not soggy.
Adaptations and Dietary Considerations
No one’s kitchen is exactly the same. These tweaks mean you can keep cooking, no matter what’s in the fridge or who’s at the table.
Protein Alternatives and Substitutions
- Swap chicken sausage for pork or turkey sausage, no need to change the recipe steps.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or a can of drained cannellini beans.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
- Go gluten-free by skipping breadcrumbs or using gluten-free pasta.
- Add extra veggies for more color and nutrients, think kale, mushrooms, zucchini.
- For low-carb, serve stir fries or bakes over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
Conclusion
Funny how chicken sausage and eggplant, both a little plain at first glance, can turn into something real good with just a bit of care. Brown the sausage till it’s got some real color, salt the eggplant so it holds up, and don’t crowd the pan. Sheet pans, skillets, they make cleanup easy. Leftovers reheat fine, maybe even better. Cinnamon or lemon, maybe. Recipes are just a guide. What’s in your fridge probably works.
FAQ
What are some quick chicken sausage eggplant dinner ideas for busy weeknights?
If you need fast meals, try a quick chicken sausage eggplant skillet or a simple chicken sausage eggplant pasta. These recipes are perfect when you don’t have much time but want something homemade. You can also whip up a chicken sausage eggplant wrap or a quick chicken sausage eggplant frittata. Sheet pan chicken sausage eggplant recipes are easy too, just toss everything on one pan and roast it. These options save time while still giving you lots of flavor.
How can I make healthy chicken sausage eggplant recipes without getting bored?
Healthy chicken sausage eggplant meals can stay exciting with variety. Try a chicken sausage eggplant zucchini bake or a low carb chicken sausage eggplant stir fry. You can also make chicken sausage eggplant tomato sauce to toss with noodles or use in chicken sausage eggplant lettuce wraps. Air fryer chicken sausage eggplant gets crispy without extra oil. With these choices, you’ll eat healthy but still enjoy rich, filling meals.
What’s a good chicken sausage eggplant recipe for meal prep?
For meal prep, chicken sausage eggplant meal prep bowls work great. You can also make baked chicken sausage eggplant casserole or chicken sausage eggplant lasagna. These store well in the fridge and are easy to reheat. Chicken sausage eggplant rice bowls and chicken sausage eggplant quinoa mixes are tasty too. Mix roasted eggplant with chicken sausage for easy packed lunches. You’ll save time and enjoy good food all week.
How do I cook chicken sausage eggplant recipes using just one pot or pan?
One pot chicken sausage eggplant dishes make life easier. A chicken sausage eggplant skillet is fast with less cleanup. Chicken sausage eggplant stew or slow cooker chicken sausage eggplant is perfect for cozy meals. Chicken sausage eggplant orzo or risotto cooks in one pan and tastes creamy. Sheet pan chicken sausage eggplant is also handy, everything roasts together for a no-fuss dinner.
Can I use chicken sausage eggplant recipes for special occasions?
Yes! You can make fancy but easy chicken sausage eggplant recipes. Try chicken sausage eggplant parmesan or chicken sausage eggplant gratin. Grilled chicken sausage eggplant skewers or chicken sausage eggplant boats are fun for guests. For something rich, make creamy chicken sausage eggplant pasta or chicken sausage eggplant ragu. With simple steps, these meals feel special but don’t take all day.
Can I make chicken sausage eggplant recipes with a spicy flavor?
Yes! Spicy chicken sausage and eggplant recipes are a great way to add heat to your meals. Try a spicy chicken sausage eggplant skillet or a sweet and spicy chicken sausage eggplant stir fry. You can also cook spicy tomato chicken sausage eggplant with rich sauce. These meals bring just the right kick without being too hard to make.
What are some chicken sausage eggplant recipes that work for a Mediterranean diet?
Mediterranean chicken sausage eggplant dishes are full of fresh flavors. You can make chicken sausage eggplant hummus plates or chicken sausage eggplant pita pockets. A chicken sausage eggplant veggie bowl or grilled chicken sausage eggplant skewers with simple herbs and olive oil also fits well with the Mediterranean way of eating.
How can I make comfort food with chicken sausage and eggplant?
For comfort food, try creamy chicken sausage eggplant pasta or baked penne chicken sausage eggplant. Chicken sausage eggplant polenta is warm and filling, and chicken sausage eggplant gnocchi is rich but easy. These meals are perfect when you want something cozy after a long day.
Are there fun ways to serve chicken sausage eggplant for casual meals?
Yes! Chicken sausage eggplant pizza or chicken sausage eggplant sandwich makes dinner fun and relaxed. Chicken sausage eggplant bruschetta or chicken sausage eggplant wrap sandwiches are great for sharing with friends. You can also try chicken sausage eggplant hash or chicken sausage eggplant pita for easy, casual bites.
References
- https://jeanieandluluskitchen.com/eggplant-tomato-and-chicken-sausage-pasta/
- https://www.premiofoods.com/recipes/grilled-chicken-sausage-eggplant-and-squash-rollatini/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-one-pan-meal/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-cook-time/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-bake/
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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.
