Key Takeaway
- It’s a versatile one-pan meal that can be made with different types of sausage and a variety of vegetables. This makes it a good option for pleasing different tastes.
- Cooking the sausage and vegetables in a skillet browns them for maximum flavor without lots of fuss. All the ingredients cook together efficiently so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- The protein and veggies combined with just a single skillet to clean up make it a nutritionist-approved dinner that’s easy on cleanup. It gives you a balanced meal without taking much time or effort.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Skillets
Ingredients commonly used (feel free to substitute)
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken sausage | Chosen sausage flavor depends on personal preference. Italian and spicy flavors work well. |
| Vegetables | Great low-carb options include peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini. Use a variety for texture and nutrients. |
| Pasta/rice/potatoes | These starchy ingredients soak up flavors and add substance to the meal. Rice is a staple meal prep ingredient. |
| Tomatoes/sauce/stock | Fresh tomatoes or pasta sauce adds moisture and bold flavors. Chicken stock also works well. |
| Spices | No skillet is complete without garlic, basil and oregano at minimum. Experiment with other herb and spice blends. |
Basic steps to make a Skillet (prep time 10 mins)
- Brown the chicken sausage in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. This step renders fat and adds color/crispness.
- Add diced vegetables. Cook until just tender still with some bite remaining at 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add rice and enough stock just to cover ingredients. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer.
- Continue simmering until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs to taste. Serve hot!
After trying many recipes, I’ve found cooking ingredients in stages over reduced heat is key. Using just one pan minimizes cleanup. Leftovers are perfect for meal prep. The resulting skillet meal is satisfying, healthy, and ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Feel free to substitute ingredient amounts based on preference. Olive oil adds richness. No matter what combo you choose, this skillet recipe is sure to become a favorite!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3Hev0P6lyA&t=18sCredit : Maple Jubilee
Popular Variations on the Chicken Sausage Skillet
Chicken Sausage and Pasta Skillet
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken sausage | Simply Recipes uses italian chicken sausage |
| Pasta | Farfalle or penne pasta works well |
| Marinara sauce | Add a jar of your favorite low-sugar marinara |
| Spinach | Baby spinach wilts into the sauce |
| Cheese | Top with parmesan or mozzarella cheese |
This has become my go-to pasta recipe. Adding the sausage and chicken sausages to the skillet with oil and garlic and cook releases rich flavors. The marinara mixes with juices to create a savory sauce clinging to the pasta. Spinach balances it nutritionally. Now it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken sausage | Love to be in the Kitchen uses spicy italian sausage |
| Bell pepper | Add colorful red bell pepper slices |
| Zucchini | Sliced zucchini cooks until tender |
| Onions | Sweet onions are a classic addition |
| Potatoes | Crispy red potatoes roast with the other veggies |
This recipe allows me to use any produce I have on hand. Sautéing the sausage before adding the vegetables layers complexity (1). I love how each veggie holds its own texture in the finished skillet. It’s so hearty and satisfying, I often enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
Low Carb Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skillet
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken sausage | Adds protein and seasoning |
| Vegetables | Zucchini, yellow squash, peppers, mushrooms |
| Cauliflower rice | As a substitute for traditional rice or pasta |
| Seasonings | Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt & pepper |
Since trying cauliflower rice, I’ve become a convert for its versatility and nutrition. Paired with colorful veggies, it makes a lovely low-carb chicken sausage skillet (2). The combination of ingredients and seasonings is simply delicious. With so few ingredients but big flavor, this recipe is a regular in my meal prep routine now.
Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage Skillet
Use a variety of colorfully vegetables for maximum nutrients
Choose a rainbow of veggies like red bell peppers, brussels sprouts, zucchini and yellow bell pepper for antioxidants and vitamins (3).
Choose chicken sausages with simple, high-quality ingredients
Select sausages with minimal ingredients focusing on quality protein and seasoning. Italian chicken sausages work particularly well.
Sauté vegetables before adding chicken to ensure even cooking
Heat the cast iron skillet over medium heat and add oil. Add diced veggies and continue cooking until tender, about 7-10 minutes. Then add the sausage and chicken to cook through.
Top with fresh herbs like basil, oregano or parsley
Finishing with herbs like italian seasoning and red pepper flakes brightens flavors.
Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a hearty one-pan meal
For cauliflower rice, pulse cauliflower in a food processor then add to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking until tender.In my experience, taking the time to layer ingredients and remove from heat once the rice is cooked results in maximum flavor. The combinations are endless depending on your preferences.Most importantly, enjoy all the wonderful nutrients vegetables plus protein provide in this complete and satisfying skillet supper!
FAQ
How can I make my chicken sausage skillet low carb?
Substitute cauliflower rice or other low-carb veggies like zucchini in place of pasta/rice. Choose chicken sausage with no sugars.
What prep time is required for chicken sausage skillet?
Prep time is around 30 minutes including slicing/dicing ingredients and cooking. Pre-cooked ingredients like frozen peas can shorten the timeline.
Can I make this skillet dinner in the air fryer or instant pot?
Yes, you can adapt the skillet method for air fryer or pressure cooker cooking. Adjust cooking times according to appliance instructions and check for doneness.
Can this skillet recipe be made dairy-free or gluten-free?
Absolutely. Omit any cheeses or creamy ingredients. Choose chicken sausage carefully to ensure gluten is not present.
What spices work best in chicken sausage skillet?
Fresh herbs like thyme, basil and parsley plus dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic and red onion bring flavor. A pinch of salt balances the other spices.
Is this easy chicken sausage skillet recipe kid friendly?
Yes, the simple preparation appeals to little ones and versatile ingredients mean customizing for their tastes. Supervision during cooking is best for younger kids.
Can I use store-bought or frozen ingredients?
For convenience, pre-cooked chicken or fully-cooked pork sausage or proteins can definitely be substituted. Frozen veggies like small yellow peas are also suitable with no loss of quality.
What’s the best pan or pot size for this recipe?
A large skillet (10-12 inches) works perfectly but a medium low heat is key with any size pan to avoid scorching. A stovetop-safe casserole dish fits the ingredients well too.
Conclusion
Chicken sausage skillet is truly one of the most flexible and family-pleasing weeknight meals. It’s also great for using up produce before it spoils. Whether you opt for simple bell peppers and onions or get creative with seasonal ingredients, this one-pan supper always comes out tasting better than it looks!I’d love to hear about your favorite sausage skillet mixes. Does anyone have a secret ingredient they just can’t leave out? Feel free to share your best variations in the comments below. Cooking is more fun when we learn from each other’s discoveries. Now get out there and start sizzling – your household will thank you for an easy, delicious dinner solution!
References
- https://recipes.net/articles/how-to-saute-sausage/
- https://www.emilyenchanted.com/chicken-sausage-skillet/
- https://superfoodly.com/red-vs-green-bell-pepper-benefits/
Related Article
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/what-can-you-cook-in-electric-skillet/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-pasta/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-skewers/
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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.
