Chicken Sausage Grill Time : Perfecting Your Grilling Experience

 

Grilling chicken sausage can be a fun and tasty activity. The writer recalls the first time grilling chicken sausage. Excitement bubbled up, with the thought, “How hard can it be?” But soon enough, it became clear that there’s a little more to it than just throwing the sausages on the grill. The right technique truly makes a difference. 

As the exploration of the world of chicken sausage grilling unfolds, readers will discover how to grill the sausages perfectly, enhance flavors, and ensure safety while doing it.

Key Takeaways

1. Use indirect heat first, then direct heat to finish.
2. Always check the internal temperature for safety.
3. Experiment with flavors and toppings for a delicious meal.

 

Understanding the Best Grilling Techniques

Credit : Backwoods Gourmet Channel

Grilling chicken sausage can be straightforward, but attention to detail is key. The writer believes one of the most important things is to know your grill. If you use a gas grill, preheating it for about 15 minutes is essential. For charcoal, lighting the coals at least 30 minutes before cooking helps achieve the right heat for the sausages.

Creating two heat zones on the grill is crucial. Here’s how it works:

• Indirect Heat Zone: Turning on one side of the grill while leaving the other side off allows for gentle cooking. Over this heat, the sausages usually take about 8-10 minutes to reach an internal temperature of around 150°F.(1)
• Direct Heat Zone: Once the sausages are warmed up, moving them to the hot side for a few minutes creates that inviting golden-brown color. A quick 2-3 minutes on each side should do the trick. The goal is to ensure they reach 160°F for safety.

 

Safety Tips for Grilling Chicken Sausage

When grilling chicken sausage, safety is paramount. Nobody wants to get sick from undercooked meat. The writer suggests always using a meat thermometer to check the temperature. It’s the best way to ensure the sausages are done.Avoiding high heat at first is another important tip. If the grill is too hot, the casings might burst, and all those tasty juices will be lost. That’s definitely a bummer! And remember, don’t pierce the sausages. They’ll stay juicy if left whole.Another critical point is to keep raw chicken separate from cooked food. This practice helps prevent any nasty germs from spreading. The writer knows that safety in the kitchen is just as important as taste.

 

Adding Flavor to Chicken Sausages

Now that the basics of cooking are covered, let’s talk about flavor! There are countless ways to make chicken sausages taste amazing.

• Marinating : Marinating the sausages before grilling adds a delightful kick of flavor. Ingredients like olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices work wonders. Letting them soak for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the fridge, allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Glazing : Brushing a glaze on while they cook can elevate the taste even more. Honey mustard or barbecue sauce can create a super tasty finish. The glaze will caramelize, resulting in wonderful sweet and tangy flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
• Toppings : After grilling, serving the sausages with sautéed peppers and onions, mustard, or even chimichurri sauce can create a little party in every bite! There are endless topping options, including coleslaw or pickled jalapeños for a fun twist.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage

Chicken sausage isn’t just delicious; it’s also healthier than its pork or beef counterparts. Made from lean chicken breast meat, a typical 3oz serving has only about 100 calories—significantly less than pork sausages, which can range from 170-230 calories! Plus, chicken sausages provide about 12-15 grams of protein and usually contain less than 3 grams of fat.(2)People can enjoy these sausages guilt-free! They represent a great choice for a lighter meal, and grilling can be a fun way to prepare them. The writer recalls grilling chicken sausages for a summer picnic with friends, and everyone loved them. They couldn’t believe how tasty and healthy the sausages were at the same time.

 

Versatility of Chicken Sausage

One of the most exciting aspects of chicken sausage is its versatility. They come in various flavors, such as Italian herb, Cajun spice, and even apple-sage. This variety means they can fit into numerous meals.People can toss chicken sausages into salads, mix them with pasta dishes, or even make tacos. Their mild flavor allows them to pair wonderfully with many sides. Options like grilled vegetables, potato salad, or coleslaw can enhance the meal, making it satisfying and delicious.For example, the writer once prepared a pasta dish using grilled chicken sausages. They boiled whole wheat pasta, sautéed zucchini and bell peppers in olive oil, and then sliced the grilled sausages. Mixing everything together and topping it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese led to a dish that was a hit. Their family asked for seconds, and the writer felt proud of how delicious it turned out.

 

Reheating Grilled Chicken Sausage

After grilling, it’s not uncommon to have some leftovers. No worries! Grilled chicken sausage can be reheated easily. The oven, microwave, or even the grill again can be used to warm them up. Keeping the sausages flavorful and moist is essential during reheating.If unsure how to reheat them, there are guides available with detailed instructions. Here’s a quick method for reheating on the grill: placing the sausages on the indirect heat side for a few minutes while turning occasionally ensures they warm through. Brushing a little olive oil on them can help keep them moist, making it super easy and convenient.

 

Cooking Chicken Sausage from Frozen

Sometimes, people might have frozen chicken sausages. No problem, they can still grill them without needing to defrost. However, it’s important to note that they will take longer to cook. Adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time is recommended.Starting them over indirect heat until warmed through is ideal, then finishing on the direct heat side for that nice char. Always checking the internal temperature ensures they reach 160°F. Cooking from frozen is a great way to save time, especially on busy days.

 

Grilling Chicken Sausage Skewers

If feeling adventurous, people can also make chicken sausage skewers. Cutting the sausages into bite-sized pieces and threading them onto skewers creates a fun presentation. Mixing them with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes adds color and flavor.Grilling skewers can be a fun way to serve chicken sausage, especially for parties. Soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning.Cooking the skewers over indirect heat first for about 8-10 minutes, then finishing with direct heat for that nice char, guarantees delicious results. It’s a great way to get creative with grilling.

 

Chicken Sausage and Breakfast

Did you know that chicken sausage can also be a fantastic breakfast option? Adding them to breakfast dishes can make them healthier. For instance, slicing chicken sausages and frying them in a pan along with scrambled eggs or omelets creates a delightful morning meal.Breakfast burritos are another excellent idea. Wrapping scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, and cheese in a tortilla creates a tasty and filling start to the day. The writer remembers making breakfast burritos for their family one weekend, and they were a big hit! Everyone loved the combination of flavors, and it was a great way to use leftover sausages from a barbecue.

 

Pairing Sides with Chicken Sausage

When grilling chicken sausages, it’s not just about the sausages themselves; it’s also about what you serve with them. Here are some tasty side ideas that pair perfectly with grilled chicken sausages:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make excellent options. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling for extra flavor.
2. Potato Salad: A classic side that complements sausage perfectly. It can be creamy or tangy, depending on personal preference.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and freshness of coleslaw create a delightful contrast to the savory flavor of the sausages.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are a delicious addition to any barbecue spread.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn is sweet and pairs wonderfully with chicken sausage. Just brush it with some butter and season with salt.

Each of these sides can elevate a chicken sausage meal to a whole new level! The writer recalls hosting a backyard barbecue where they served grilled chicken sausages alongside grilled corn and a big bowl of coleslaw. Everyone raved about how well the flavors matched, making the meal even more enjoyable.

 

Chicken Sausage in the Oven

If grilling isn’t an option, chicken sausages can also be cooked in the oven. It’s super easy! Preheating the oven to 400°F, placing the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and baking for about 20-25 minutes while turning them halfway through results in a nicely cooked and juicy meal.(3)This method is perfect for those rainy days when grilling isn’t feasible. The sausages come out delicious and satisfying, allowing people to enjoy their favorite flavors indoors.

 

The Importance of Proper Storage

After grilling, storing any leftover chicken sausages properly is important. Allowing them to cool down before placing them in an airtight container helps maintain freshness. They can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.For those who want to keep them longer, freezing is an option. Wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag allows them to last for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat as discussed earlier.

 

Creative Chicken Sausage Recipes

Once individuals feel comfortable with grilling, they can start experimenting with different recipes that use chicken sausages. Here are a few ideas to inspire culinary creativity:

1. Chicken Sausage Pasta: Cooking pasta and tossing it with sautéed chicken sausage, spinach, and garlic creates a delicious dish. Adding a splash of cream for a rich sauce takes it to another level.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Mixing cooked rice, chicken sausage, and veggies, then stuffing the mixture into bell peppers, makes for a colorful and tasty meal. Baking until the peppers are tender ensures a delightful texture.
3. Chicken Sausage Chili: Chopping up chicken sausage and adding it to favorite chili recipes creates a delightful twist that is hearty and satisfying.
4. Pizza Topping: Slicing grilled chicken sausage and using it as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza adds a savory flavor that can impress anyone.

5. Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry: Sautéing sliced chicken sausage with favorite vegetables and soy sauce creates a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights.

Each of these recipes offers a fun way to enjoy chicken sausage in different forms. The writer recalls making chicken sausage chili for a cozy fall dinner. It was warm and comforting, and everyone loved it.

 

Grilling for Gatherings

Grilling chicken sausages is perfect for gatherings and parties. When hosting friends or family, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser! The sausages are easy to scale up in quantity, and they cook quickly on the grill.Setting up a grill station allows everyone to build their own sausages with various toppings, making the meal interactive and fun. It creates a lively atmosphere, and the writer knows from experience that plenty of napkins are needed because things might get messy! But that’s part of the fun and camaraderie of grilling together.

 

FAQ

How long should chicken sausage be grilled?

Grilling chicken sausage usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes over medium heat. It helps to turn them often so they brown evenly without burning. If they’re pre-cooked, they just need to heat through and get a bit of char. Raw chicken sausages need a little more time and should reach 165°F inside before serving.

Should chicken sausage be cooked indirectly or over direct heat?

Both methods can work, but it depends on the sausage. Pre-cooked versions do well with direct heat for that snappy finish. Raw sausages benefit from starting over indirect heat to cook through gently, then moving to direct heat at the end to brown. That combo keeps the casing intact and avoids flare-ups.

Does chicken sausage need to be pre-boiled before grilling?

Not necessarily. Pre-boiling can help prevent undercooking if the sausage is raw, but it’s not required. Some prefer skipping the extra step and using indirect heat to cook the sausage slowly on the grill. Either way, the goal is to make sure the inside hits 165°F without drying out the outside.

What are the best grill settings for chicken sausage?

Medium heat is usually the sweet spot—hot enough to get nice grill marks without scorching the casing. A two-zone setup is helpful, especially for raw sausage: one side for searing, the other for gentle cooking. Keeping the lid closed helps cook them through while locking in that smoky flavor.

Can vegetables be grilled alongside chicken sausage?

Definitely, and it’s a smart move. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini all grill well and pair perfectly with the sausage’s savory flavor. Just toss them in a little oil and season before throwing them on the grill. Using a grill basket can help keep smaller veggies from slipping through the grates.

 

Conclusion

To wrap up, grilling chicken sausages is pretty simple if one knows what they’re doing. Using indirect heat first, then finishing with direct heat, creates that perfect char. Always checking temperatures for safety is essential, and experimenting with flavors and toppings can make the experience even more enjoyable.The nutritional benefits of chicken sausage make them a healthier option for grilling adventures. People can fire up the grill, invite friends over, and enjoy a delicious meal together! The joy of grilling chicken sausage isn’t just about the food; it’s about the memories created while sharing it with others. 

 

Related Articles 

• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/grilled-chicken-sausage/
• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/best-way-to-reheat-grilled-chicken/
• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-cook-chicken-sausage/

References 

1. https://www.charbroil.com/how-tos/grill-temp-for-chicken-sausage
2. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/is-chicken-sausage-healthy/
3. https://www.electionsausagesizzle.com.au/grilling-tips-grilling-perfectly-cooked-sausages