Cooking chicken sausage links in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a tasty meal. With an air fryer, juicy sausages can be enjoyed in 15 minutes or less. This cooking method is perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
Or when you are prepping meals for the week ahead. Keep reading to find out the simple steps for making mouthwatering chicken sausage links in an air fryer. This cooking hack will become a go-to for easy dinners.(1)
Key Takeaway
- Air frying chicken sausage links is a quick way to cook.
- Use pre-cooked sausages for faster meals.
- Enjoy sausages with different dishes or flavors.
Ingredients for Chicken Sausage Links
Credits : Munchy Goddess
Making tasty chicken sausage links in an air fryer only takes a couple easy-to-find ingredients. This simple recipe means even the busiest person can put a healthy meal on the table fast. The ingredients are probably already in the kitchen!
- Chicken Sausages – These pre-cooked sausages are so convenient. Just open the package and they are ready to cook. Lots of flavors like apple, garlic or spicy are available from brands like Aidells, Al Fresco and Applegate. Pick a favorite flavor that sounds yummy.
- Olive Oil Spray – This is optional but gives the sausages a nice crispiness. Be careful not to use too much spray. Just a quick light coating is enough. Too much oil makes the sausages greasy.
With just chicken sausages and a quick spritz of olive oil, anyone can make a tasty meal in minutes. Air frying locks in the flavor and juices without added fat. It’s so easy to whip up these sausages for a fast, healthy dinner or meal prep.
Equipment Needed
Cooking chicken sausages in an air fryer is super easy. The only thing needed is an air fryer. These popular kitchen gadgets use hot air to make foods crispy without a lot of oil. Air fryers come in different sizes and brands. But they all work the same basic way.
It’s important to take a minute to preheat the air fryer before cooking. Check the manual to see how long it takes to preheat. Usually 3 to 5 minutes does the trick. Preheating helps the sausages cook evenly and get nice and golden brown.
With just an air fryer, anyone can make quick and tasty chicken sausages. No special skills required! Air frying locks in flavor and juices without added fat. It’s so easy to whip up a healthy dinner in minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking yummy chicken sausages in an air fryer is so easy. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
- Turn on the air fryer and set it to 375°F. Let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes. This gets it hot enough to cook the sausages right.
- Put the sausages in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them. Give them a little space. If wanted, spray lightly with olive oil. This gives them a nice crispiness.
- Set the timer:
- Pre-cooked sausages – Cook 8 to 10 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Raw or frozen sausages – Cook 12 to 15 minutes. Flip halfway.
- Use a food thermometer to check the temperature. Make sure the middle of the sausages reaches 165°F. Then they are safe to eat.
- Let the cooked sausages rest 1 minute before eating. This lets the juices settle so they taste juicy and delicious.
Enjoy the quick and easy chicken sausages! This air fryer method makes a tasty meal in minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken sausages liven up any meal. Their versatility makes them perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between!
In the morning, scrambled eggs get a savory boost when paired with chicken sausages. For a fun twist, wrap the sausages in a tortilla with eggs, melty cheese and zesty salsa. It’s an easy breakfast burrito to grab and go.
Come lunchtime, sliced sausages add hearty protein to wraps. Sauté some colorful bell peppers and onions, then mix in the sausages. The sweet veggies complement the flavorful meat. Some fresh herbs take it to the next level.
At dinnertime, pasta and salads welcome chicken sausages too. Chopped up and tossed with hot noodles, marinara sauce and Parmesan, they make a satisfying pasta dish. Sprinkled on top of leafy greens, chicken sausages liven up salads.
For parties or game day, chicken sausages can substitute for hot dogs in whole grain buns. Top with mustard, relish or sautéed onions for a healthy twist on a classic.
No matter when hunger strikes, chicken sausages answer the call. Their taste and versatility make them a go-to ingredient for easy, delicious meals any time of day.(2)
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken sausages are a tasty treat, but only if stored and reheated properly. Follow these handy tips to keep those extras fresh and delicious for later.
First, be sure to store the cooked sausages within a couple hours of preparing them. Allowing them to sit out too long can lead to spoilage. Place the sausages in an airtight container, then pop them in the refrigerator. This seals in moisture and keeps out contaminants that cause food to go bad quickly. In the fridge, chicken sausages will maintain optimal flavor and texture for 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, freezing is the way to go. Carefully arrange sausages in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. This prevents freezer burn which can cause dryness. Frozen properly, chicken sausages can last for several months. Just be sure to label the bags with the date before placing in the freezer. This makes it easy to use the oldest ones first.
When ready to eat the leftovers, the air fryer does a fantastic job of reheating them. Simply preheat the air fryer to 350°F, then cook the sausages for 5 to 7 minutes until fully heated through. The circulating hot air restores that yummy crispiness to the outside while warming the inside. It’s like enjoying freshly cooked sausages all over again!
Alternatively, the microwave can be used to reheat them quickly. Place sausages on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel to prevent splattering. Microwave in 30 second intervals until heated through. Let them rest a minute before enjoying. This method works in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite as crispy.
With the right storage and reheating, leftover chicken sausages can taste just as delicious as the original meal. Follow these tips to get the most out of the extras.
Conclusion
Whipping up tasty chicken sausages is a breeze with an air fryer. In just minutes, juicy, crispy links are ready to eat. With so many flavors to try, it’s easy to add savory protein to any meal. Air frying seals in the flavorful juices without extra fat. This quick cooking hack lets anyone make a satisfying dinner on busy nights. So grab those chicken sausages and fire up the air fryer. A fast, delicious dinner is just a few minutes away!
FAQ
How do you air fry chicken sausage links for crispy skin?
To get crispy air fried chicken sausage, preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray. Place chicken sausages in a single layer and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. These sausages work great as a main dish or side dish.
Can you cook frozen chicken sausages in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry frozen chicken sausages easily. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spray with oil spray, and air fry at 380°F for 15-20 minutes. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the type of sausage. Halfway through the cooking process, flip them to ensure even crisping.
What are the best side dishes for air fryer chicken sausage?
Pair air fryer chicken sausage with side dishes like roasted green beans, sweet potatoes, or hash browns. These options work great for a healthy lunch or dinner idea. Feel free to add a side salad with Greek yogurt dressing for a balanced meal your entire family will enjoy.
How do you store leftover chicken sausage after air frying?
Store leftover chicken sausages in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. Leftover chicken sausage works great in quick meal ideas like pasta dishes, breakfast hash, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Are chicken sausage links a low carb and gluten free option?
Yes, chicken sausage links are often a low carb and gluten free choice, depending on the brand of chicken sausages. Always check the ingredients on the package for added sugars or gluten. These sausages are a great option for healthy recipes like cauliflower rice bowls or as a dinner sausage alternative.
Can I use aluminum foil in the air fryer when cooking chicken sausage?
Yes, aluminum foil can be used to line the air fryer basket for easier cleanup. Make sure to leave space for airflow so the chicken sausage cooks evenly. This method works great when making air fryer roasted vegetables as a side dish alongside the sausage.
What are some pro tips for cooking chicken sausages in an air fryer?
Preheat the air fryer and spray the sausages lightly with cooking spray for juicy air fryer results. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Expert tips include flipping the sausages halfway through for even cooking and serving with favorite brands of low carb sides.
What makes chicken sausage in the air fryer a quick meal idea?
Air fryer chicken sausage is a quick meal idea because it has a short prep time and cook time. It’s a flavorful chicken sausage option that can go from frozen to crispy in minutes. Serve with butternut squash or Brussels sprouts for a delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
References
- https://www.tastingtable.com/1687770/trader-joes-sausages-ranked-worst-best/
- https://www.msn.com/en-us/foodanddrink/foodnews/the-overly-sweet-trader-joes-sausage-to-avoid-at-all-costs/ar-AA1tNxET
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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.
