Cooking chicken sausage in a slow cooker makes meal prep simple and enjoyable. The slow cooker blends flavors nicely, resulting in delicious dishes. It’s perfect for those with busy lifestyles. People can set everything up ahead of time, letting the cooker do the work while they focus on other tasks. This hands-off cooking method frees up time for family or hobbies.
For tasty recipes that appeal to everyone, keep reading! Whether for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, these slow cooker chicken sausage dishes will please any crowd.(1)
Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage is easy to cook in a slow cooker.
- These recipes are tasty and great for any meal.
- You can make them ahead and enjoy without much work.
1. Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Stew
Credits : Pinch of Yum
This chicken sausage and vegetable stew is an ideal choice for chilly days. It offers warmth and comfort, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Juicy chicken sausage combines with colorful vegetables, creating a dish that is both delicious and visually inviting.
Finding the ingredients is a breeze. The savory chicken sausage adds rich flavor, while mixed vegetables contribute crunch and nutrition. Carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers work together beautifully, adding sweetness and texture that make each bite enjoyable. Plus, this stew is packed with vitamins that benefit everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, sliced
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Chop the vegetables into small, even pieces so they cook evenly and enhance the stew’s appearance.
- Layer in Slow Cooker: First, place the sliced sausage at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps the flavors mix well. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. They’ll provide a wonderful aroma as the stew cooks.
- Add Vegetables: Now, layer the mixed vegetables over the sausage and onions. This colorful mix not only looks great but also brings its own unique flavors to the dish, creating a rich and satisfying experience.
- Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle dried thyme and oregano over the vegetables. These herbs give the stew a lovely taste. Then, season with salt and pepper to your liking. Pour in the chicken broth, covering all the ingredients. The broth promotes a tasty blend as everything cooks.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This leisurely cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s good to check occasionally to make sure the veggies become tender, but they shouldn’t be mushy.
- Serve: Once it’s cooked, stir the stew gently to mix everything together. This ensures every bowl is full of goodies. Serve the stew hot, ideally with some crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
This stew feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. It’s healthy, filling, and bursting with flavor. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy this comforting dish? With its simple recipe, it brings joy to the dinner table, and everyone is sure to love it!.(2)
2. Spicy Chicken Sausage Pasta
This spicy chicken sausage pasta comes together quickly and brings a burst of flavor to the table. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when everyone craves something hearty and satisfying.
The mix of spicy sausage, tender pasta, and fresh spinach creates a dish that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Plus, its easy preparation makes it a great option for families or anyone seeking a delicious meal without too much hassle.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne or rotini)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced spicy chicken sausage and let it cook until it turns brown, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Browning the sausage adds rich flavor that enhances the dish. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to the slow cooker to let the flavors meld.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix in the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and uncooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This blend creates a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen. The tomatoes add moisture, while the onions and garlic build a savory foundation.
- Add Liquid: Pour in about 3 cups of water or broth to cover the pasta completely. This liquid is crucial for cooking the pasta properly and creating a sauce that coats everything nicely, boosting the dish’s flavor.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. It’s good to check on the pasta now and then to ensure it cooks evenly. The goal is for the pasta to be soft but not mushy. During this time, the flavors will blend beautifully.
- Add Spinach: For the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the spinach. If using fresh spinach, it will wilt quickly. Frozen spinach may take a bit longer to heat through. Adding spinach not only enhances the dish’s nutrition but also brings in a lovely pop of color.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked, serve the pasta hot. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the spice of the sausage nicely. Enjoying this pasta dish is truly a delight! It’s spicy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for many.
This pasta is a crowd-pleaser! It combines spice and cheese in a way that’s hard to resist.
3. Chicken Sausage Chili
Chili is a fantastic choice for family dinners, especially on chilly nights! This chicken sausage chili is easy to make and packed with healthy beans. It’s a wonderful dish that warms everyone up and brings the family together. The combination of chicken sausage and beans makes it hearty and satisfying, while the spices add a nice kick that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage, crumbled
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Crumble the chicken sausage and cook it until fully browned, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Browning the sausage adds deep flavor to the chili. Once done, carefully transfer the sausage to the slow cooker to let the flavors meld together as it cooks.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: In the slow cooker, mix in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine. Each ingredient contributes its own unique taste, making the chili rich and delicious. The beans provide protein and fiber, while the tomatoes add moisture and a touch of sweetness.
- Cook: After mixing all the ingredients, cover the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to deepen and the chili to thicken. Occasionally stirring helps prevent sticking and keeps an eye on how everything cooks.
- Serve: Once the chili is ready, serve it hot in bowls. This dish is delightful on its own, but it shines with toppings! A dollop of sour cream or some fresh cilantro can add extra flavor. These toppings bring creaminess and freshness that balance the spicy chili perfectly.
Chili brings a comforting warmth that makes everyone feel good inside. It is spicy and fun to eat, making it ideal for dinner and even better as leftovers the next day. It pairs well with cornbread, over rice, or wrapped in a tortilla. Everyone is sure to love this hearty meal!
4. Mediterranean Chicken Sausage Skewers
These Mediterranean chicken sausage skewers offer a fun and tasty dining experience. Colorful and easy to prepare, they are perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Juicy chicken sausage combined with fresh vegetables makes every bite delicious. With their vibrant colors, these skewers are sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, they are great for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken sausage (Mediterranean flavor preferred), sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, chopped into chunks
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about an hour. This helps prevent them from burning during cooking. Metal skewers don’t require this step. Preparing the skewers properly ensures they hold the food well without catching fire.
- Assemble Skewers: Start threading the chicken sausage slices and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between sausage and veggies to create a colorful pattern. For example, begin with a sausage slice, then add a chunk of bell pepper, followed by a slice of zucchini. This not only looks appealing but also allows everyone to enjoy a mix of flavors in each bite.
- Season: After assembling the skewers, drizzle them lightly with olive oil for added flavor and even cooking. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the sausage and vegetables, making them even more delicious.
- Cook in Slow Cooker: Stand the skewers up in the slow cooker, leaning them against each other if needed. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld while keeping everything juicy and tender. It’s a low-maintenance cooking option!
- Serve: Once the skewers are hot and cooked through, they are ready to enjoy! Pair them with tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping. These sauces add a cool, creamy touch that complements the spices in the sausage. It makes the meal more exciting and interactive, as everyone can dip their skewers into their favorite sauce.
These skewers are fun and flavorful, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. They can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a tasty appetizer at a gathering. The mix of flavors will delight everyone’s taste buds, creating a meal to remember.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Sausage in a Slow Cooker
- Preheat the slow cooker before adding food to ensure even cooking from the start.
- For deeper flavor, consider browning the sausages in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This step enhances the taste.
- Cooking times may vary based on the slow cooker model, so check to ensure everything is cooking properly.
These chicken sausage recipes offer fantastic options for anyone looking to make meals with ease. They are delicious, healthy, and suitable for any day!
Conclusion
Cooking chicken sausage in a slow cooker offers a variety of tasty meals. From hearty stews and flavorful pasta to zesty chili and colorful skewers, there’s a recipe for everyone. These dishes are simple to prepare, making them ideal for busy days when time is short. With easy instructions and delicious flavors, anyone can enjoy a satisfying meal without the hassle. It’s a convenient way to keep mealtime exciting!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken sausage in slow cooker recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken sausage in your slow cooker recipes. However, it’s best to ensure the sausages are fully cooked through by the end of the cooking time. If cooking from frozen, add an extra 30 minutes to your cook time, depending on the recipe and slow cooker model.
2. How long should I cook chicken sausage in the slow cooker?
Generally, chicken sausage takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat in the slow cooker. This may vary depending on the size and type of sausage, so always check for doneness before serving.
3. Should I brown chicken sausage before adding it to the slow cooker?
Browning the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker is optional. While it adds extra flavor, especially a nice caramelization, the sausages will cook through and develop flavor in the slow cooker even without browning first.
4. What can I serve with chicken sausage from the slow cooker?
Chicken sausage pairs well with many sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with pasta or in a sandwich for a hearty meal.
5. Can I substitute chicken sausage with other types of sausage in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage with other types of sausage, like turkey, pork, or even plant-based sausage if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavor profiles may differ depending on the sausage type.
6. How do I prevent chicken sausage from drying out in the slow cooker?
To avoid dry chicken sausage, ensure there’s enough liquid in the slow cooker, whether from broth, tomatoes, or other ingredients. You can also cook on low heat to prevent overcooking, which helps retain moisture in the sausage.
7. Are there any tips for adding vegetables to slow-cooked chicken sausage dishes?
Yes! Add harder vegetables like carrots or potatoes at the beginning of the cooking process, as they need more time to soften. For more delicate veggies, such as spinach or zucchini, add them in during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
8. Can I make chicken sausage recipes ahead of time in the slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can prep your chicken sausage dish the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it in the slow cooker the next day. This can save time and let the flavors meld together for even better results.
References
- https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/slow-cooker-tailgate-recipes/
- https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1025484-stuffed-zucchini
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-jambalaya-slow-cooker/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-crock-pot/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-food-ideas/
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