“The secret to making crazy good chicken sausage dishes is pairing them with the right ingredients,” says chef Giada.
I’m obsessed with chicken sausages – they’re protein-packed and so versatile! But sometimes I get stuck in a rut, serving them the same old way.
That’s why I’ve spent years experimenting with different ingredient pairings to really make them shine.
From zesty marinades that pack a flavor punch to sweet and savory sides that perfectly complement the sausage, I’ve got tons of mouthwatering combos to share.
Curious to take your sausage game to new levels? Then keep reading for my top tips!
KEY TAKEAWAY
Chicken sausage ingredient pairings, what to know?
Chicken sausage ingredient pairings include herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme, along with vegetables such as fennel and garlic, enhancing flavor and texture in various dishes. (1)
These ingredients complement the savory profile of chicken sausage, creating delicious and satisfying culinary combinations.
Popular Ingredients for Pairing
Sage
Ahh, sage! That earthy, slightly peppery herb is an absolute game-changer when it comes to chicken sausage pairings.
Its aromatic flavor profile creates the most beautiful marriage with the savory richness of the sausages.
After years of experimenting, here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate sage:
- Sauté some minced sage along with the sausages for an infusion of herby goodness
- Make a sage-infused brown butter sauce to drizzle over the top
- Sprinkle some crispy fried sage leaves as a garnish for extra crunch
Trust me, that fragrant sage will elevate your sausage dish to gourmet levels!
Fennel
Looking to add a touch of sweet licorice-y zing?
Then fennel is your new best friend for chicken sausage pairings!
This versatile veggie brings a subtle anise flavor that complements the sausages beautifully.
Here are some creative ways I like to use fennel:
- Thinly shave some fennel and toss it into a fresh salad with the sausages
- Roast wedges of fennel alongside the sausages for a caramelized side
- Sauté sliced fennel with garlic and herbs as an aromatic bed for the sausages
That hint of fennel adds such a bright, unique dimension to chicken sausage dishes. Give it a try!
Garlic
Is there anything better than the aroma of garlic sizzling away on the stovetop?
That pungent, savory punch is an absolute must when it comes to pairing ingredients with chicken sausages.
Over the years, I’ve become a total garlic fanatic – it adds so much flavor! Here are some of my go-to ways to incorporate it:
- Mince up a few cloves and sauté them with the sausages as they cook
- Make a quick garlic-herb compound butter to melt over the top
- Roast a whole head of garlic and smash the caramelized cloves over the sausages
That punchy garlic aroma is the perfect complement to rich chicken sausage.
It’ll make your kitchen smell amazing!
Rosemary
Looking to infuse a beautifully fragrant, herbal note?
Then rosemary is your new BFF for chicken sausage dishes! This woodsy, pine-like herb brings an incredible aroma and bright flavor.
I love using rosemary in so many ways:
- Sprinkle some fresh rosemary leaves over the sausages as they sizzle
- Make a quick rosemary-infused olive oil to drizzle over the finished dish
- Toss potato wedges with rosemary, garlic, and sausage for an irresistible sheet pan dinner
That punch of rosemary instantly elevates even the simplest sausage recipe.
It’s an herb you’ve gotta have in your flavor arsenal!
Thyme
Earthy, slightly minty, and oh-so-fragrant – that’s the magic of thyme!
This humble herb packs a serious punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken sausages.
I’m a huge fan of using thyme in all sorts of ways:
- Strip the leaves off the stems and mix them right into the sausage meat before cooking
- Make a quick compound butter with thyme, garlic, and lemon zest to melt over the top
- Toss some sprigs of fresh thyme onto a sheet pan with the sausages as they roast
Thyme adds such a wonderful depth of flavor to sausage dishes.
That aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!
Unique Pairings and Recipes
Chicken Apple Sausage with Butternut Squash
Now here’s a combo that’s pure autumn magic – the sweet-savory blend of chicken apple sausages paired with velvety roasted butternut squash. (2)
These flavors were just made for each other!
After years of perfecting it, here’s how I make this cozy dish:
- Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
- Roast the squash until tender, then push it to the sides of the sheet pan
- Add the chicken apple sausages and roast everything together until browned and delicious
The natural sweetness of the squash complements the savory-yet-fruity sausages so perfectly.
It’s an incredibly comforting cold-weather meal!
Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage with Vegetable Skillet
Here’s a super easy one-pan dinner that’s become a total weeknight savior for me – a colorful skillet packed with chicken sausage and all sorts of delicious veggies!
It’s the ultimate fuss-free meal with crazy good flavors.
I toss everything on one sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and that’s it! No tedious chopping or dirtying multiple pans required.
Here are my pro tips for the perfect veggie-sausage skillet:
- Use a mix of quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion
- Toss the veggies and sausages with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
- Roast at 400°F until the sausages are browned and the veggies are tender-crisp
By the time it’s done, your kitchen will be filled with the most mouthwatering aroma.
It’s a healthy, satisfying dinner with easy cleanup!
Garlic Bread Stuffed with Chicken Sausage
Elevate your classic garlic bread game with this insanely tasty twist – stuff it with flavorful chicken sausage!
This dish is a borderline genius way to transform boring bread into a hearty meal.
After playing around with it for years, here’s how I make it:
- Slice a loaf of Italian or French bread horizontally, leaving one long hinge
- Mix together softened butter, garlic, parsley, and shredded cheese
- Spread the garlic butter mixture inside the bread and stuff with cooked chicken sausage
- Wrap in foil and bake until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melty
This stuffed garlic bread is pure comfort food heaven! The savory sausage pairs so beautifully with that melty garlic butter.
Serve it as an appetizer or make it a meal with a side salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hot dogs or hot dogs can I serve with chicken sausage?
You can serve chicken sausage with hot dog or hot dogs as a low carb side dish.
Hot dogs make a quick and easy prep time option since you just need to heat them up.
Feel free to cut hot dogs into slices to serve alongside sliced chicken sausage.
How do I cook chicken sausage with olive oil in a large pot or a grill pan for a high heat side dish?
You can cook chicken sausage with olive oil in a large pot or grill pan over high heat to make a tasty side dish.
Cut the chicken sausage into 1/2 inch slices.
Heat olive oil in a large pot or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken sausage slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Can I make meal prep chicken sausage and side dishes for the week in an air fryer or Dutch oven?
Yes, you can easily make meal prep chicken sausage and several side dishes all at once for the week using an air fryer or Dutch oven.
Just portion ingredients like chicken sausage, red onion, red pepper, and brown rice or hot dog into reusable containers before cooking.
Then you can throw them all into the air fryer or Dutch oven with a bit of olive oil to cook.
Store containers in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating throughout the week.
How do I cook pasta salad or baked beans with pan chicken sausage on the side?
You can cook pan chicken sausage as a protein to serve alongside pasta salad or baked beans.
For the pasta salad, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente then mix with chopped bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes and your favorite pasta salad dressing.
For baked beans,cook them in a slow cooker with molasses, brown sugar, mustard and pan chicken sausage cut into 1/2 inch pieces added during the last 30 minutes.
Both make easy healthy meals or meal plans.
Can I substitute pork sausage for chicken sausage in recipes or vary based on tastes and preferences?
Yes, you are welcome to substitute pork sausage for chicken sausage in recipes if you prefer the flavor of pork or want to vary based on tastes and preferences.
Pork and chicken sausage have similar cooking methods but taste different.
Just swap out an equal amount of pork sausage for chicken sausage in recipes for pan sausage, pasta salad, meal prep containers or other dishes.
Feel free to experiment mixing and matching chicken and pork sausage based on your preferences.
What are some best chicken sausage and side dish combinations for a week of meal plans using an instant pot or slow cooker?
Here are some easy and tasty chicken sausage and side dish combinations you can make for a week of meal plans using an instant pot or slow cooker:
- Chicken sausage, green beans and instant pot brown rice
- Slow cooker chicken sausage, fresh basil and pan roasted red potatoes
- Slow cooker chicken sausage baked beans, corn on the cob
- Instant pot chicken sausage, white beans and crusty bread
- Slow cooker chicken sausage, apple cider braised red cabbage, mashed potatoes
- Pressure cooker chicken sausage, pasta salad and fresh mozzarella salad
- Slow cooker chicken sausage, bell peppers, onion and brown rice burritos
I recommend prepping ingredients on the weekend so you can just throw combinations together in the instant pot or slow cooker for easy healthy dinners all week long!
How do I cook pan sausage and add chopped bell peppers and onions to the pan for a quick meal or side dish?
To make a quick pan sausage meal or side dish, start by cooking the chicken sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
Remove sausage and set aside.
Add a tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil to the same pan.
Add chopped bell peppers and white or red onion.
Cook, stirring frequently until the veggies are tender.
Return the sausage to the pan and continue cooking until the sausage is heated through.
You can serve immediately or refrigerate for meal prep.
It comes together in under 30 minutes for an easy meal or side dish.
Feel free to add other seasonings like red pepper flakes or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
What is the best way to cook chicken sausage and fresh basil in a mixing bowl for a quick pasta dish?
One of the easiest ways to cook chicken sausage to serve with pasta is to combine it in a mixing bowl with fresh basil.
First cook gluten-free or whole grain pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and return to pot.
Remove casings from chicken sausage and add meat to the mixing bowl with freshly torn basil leaves.
Toss with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes if desired.
Microwave in 30 second intervals, tossing in between until sausage is fully cooked, about 2 minutes total.
Add hot pasta to the mixing bowl and toss to combine.
The heat from the pasta will warm everything together nicely for a quick, easy and delicious pasta dinner.
Conclusion
When it comes to cooking up deliciously flavorful chicken sausage dishes, the possibilities are truly endless!
By pairing these protein-packed links with the perfect ingredients, you can unlock a world of taste sensations that’ll have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
Throughout this guide, I’ve shared my go-to pairings like fragrant herbs, punchy garlic, and sweet-savory fruit combos.
But don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with your own unique flavor blends! Maybe you’ll discover the next iconic chicken sausage dish.
No matter what ingredients you choose, the key is letting those robust sausage flavors shine through.
With a little know-how and a dash of culinary magic, you can transform a simple link into an unforgettable meal.
So next time you fire up the grill, oven, or stovetop, think outside the bun!
Elevate your chicken sausage game with these tried-and-true pairings and recipes.
Let me know in the comments what killer chicken sausage combos you’ve discovered or if you have any other flavor pairing questions.
I’m always eager to swap sausage secrets with fellow food lovers!
References
- https://gourmetrecipevault.com/4-herb-chicken-sausage/#:~:text=Combining%20ground%20chicken%20with%20a,sausages%20are%20packed%20with%20flavor.
- https://www.healthyseasonalrecipes.com/roasted-squash-sausage-and-apple-one-pan-dinner/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/grilled-chicken-sausage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-types-and-varieties/
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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.
