A platter of savory taco dishes, featuring grilled sausage patties, warm tortillas, and vibrant vegetable toppings. If you’re craving a quick, delicious meal, these Chicken Sausage Tacos are a game-changer! Using pre-seasoned chicken sausages from the supermarket, you can whip up a flavour-packed dish in just 30 minutes. Simply cook the sausage until crispy, load up warm tortillas, and customise with your favourite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa.Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this easy recipe is perfect for busy nights. Plus, you’ll love how simple it is to switch up the flavours! Ready to make the easiest tacos ever? Keep reading for the full recipe and tips!
Key Takeaways
- Chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to traditional sausage.
- Tacos can be customized with various toppings.
- This recipe is quick and perfect for busy weeknights.
What You Need for Chicken Sausage Tacos
When it comes to making chicken sausage tacos, simplicity is key. But don’t let that fool you—simple doesn’t mean boring. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll have a meal that hits all the right spots (1). Making chicken sausage tacos is all about simplicity. Here’s the rundown of what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- Chicken Sausage (500 grams / 1 pound)
The star of the show is the chicken sausage. When selecting your sausage, you have a few flavour options to choose from, depending on what you’re in the mood for. You can go spicy for a little heat, or you might want something more subtle, like garlic or sweet varieties.
Chicken sausage is a healthier option than traditional sausage because it’s leaner, meaning you get all the flavour without the extra fat. Plus, it cooks up just as easily as regular sausage, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal. Just slice it up into bite-sized pieces to help it cook evenly and quickly.
- Taco Shells (8 pieces)
Now, let’s talk taco shells. This is where you have some flexibility. Typically, tacos are served in either corn or flour tortillas. Corn tortillas have a more traditional, slightly nutty flavour, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable (2). You can choose whichever one suits your preference—or use a combination of both if you want to give everyone a choice!
The number of shells will depend on how many people you’re serving, but 8 shells is usually enough for a family of four. It’s a good idea to warm the taco shells just before serving so they’re soft and easy to fold. Warming them also brings out their flavour, which helps when you load them with fillings.
Toppings
Now comes the fun part—toppings. Tacos are meant to be customised, so this is where you can get creative and add your favourite ingredients. Below are some simple yet flavourful options to make your chicken sausage tacos complete:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Lettuce isn’t just for decoration—it adds a nice crunch and freshness to your taco. This creates a contrast to the sausage, which is rich and juicy. The lettuce adds texture to the taco, making each bite even more satisfying.
If you want to change things up, you can use other greens like cabbage or arugula for a slightly different flavour.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Tomatoes are a classic taco topping, and for good reason. Their juicy, tangy flavour complements the savoury sausage beautifully. Tomatoes also add a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
If you like a little more heat, you can opt for diced spicy tomatoes or even roasted tomatoes to add depth.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
Cheese is almost a must-have for tacos. It adds a rich, creamy flavour that melts into the sausage and other toppings, making each bite wonderfully indulgent. Cheddar cheese brings a sharpness that pairs well with the chicken sausage, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavour.
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like pepper jack, if you prefer a bit of spice.
- ½ cup salsa (spicy or mild)
Salsa is essential for a bit of extra flavour and spice. You can choose between mild or spicy salsa depending on how much heat you like. Salsa gives the taco a juicy, tangy kick, and it’s a great way to add both flavour and moisture to your taco.
There are plenty of store-bought options, or you can easily make your own by blending fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. If you like a smoky flavour, try roasted salsa for an extra layer of taste.
- Avocado or Guacamole (optional, but highly recommended)
Avocado is the king of creamy toppings. It adds a rich, buttery texture that balances out the spiciness of the sausage and salsa. You can either slice fresh avocado into pieces or go for guacamole if you’re feeling a little more indulgent.
Guacamole with lime, cilantro, and a touch of salt makes for an incredible topping. This ingredient isn’t a must, but it’s certainly a game-changer.
- Sour cream (optional)
Sour cream adds a cool, creamy element to the taco. It’s the perfect contrast to the spicy sausage and salsa, bringing a mild, tangy richness that really ties everything together. You can add it as a topping or serve it on the side for people to add themselves.
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that offers similar creaminess with a bit more protein.
Cooking Tools
While the ingredients are simple, having the right tools makes the cooking process go much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frying pan or skillet
A frying pan or skillet is essential for cooking the chicken sausage. You can use any large pan that fits the sausage pieces comfortably, so they cook evenly.
Non-stick pans are great for preventing sticking and help reduce the amount of oil needed. You’ll want to cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Spatula
A spatula is your best friend when cooking the sausage. It’ll help you stir and flip the pieces without making a mess. A flat spatula also makes it easy to turn the sausage pieces over for that perfect brown colour on all sides. - Cutting board & sharp knife
When you’re preparing the chicken sausage, it’s best to slice it into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife and cutting board will make this job easier and safer. Plus, a clean cutting board is essential when chopping the fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado. - Microwave or another pan for warming taco shells
You can heat your taco shells in the microwave or on a separate pan. If you’re using the microwave, just pop them in for 15-20 seconds. For a crispy shell, heat them in a dry pan for about a minute on each side.
This will make them slightly crispy and warm them through. Either way, warming the shells prevents them from being too stiff when you try to fold them.
How to Cook the Chicken Sausage
Credits: Official Johnsonville
Cooking the chicken sausage for your tacos is straightforward and quick.
- Slice the Sausage: Start by cutting the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook faster and makes it easier to load up the taco shells without a mess.
- Heat the Pan: Place a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. If you want to avoid sticking, add a small splash of oil.
- Cook the Sausage: Drop the sliced sausage into the hot pan. Stir it frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned. You’ll want to ensure the pieces are fully cooked, with a golden, crispy edge.
- Warm the Taco Shells: While the sausage is cooking, warm up the taco shells. You can microwave them for 15-20 seconds or heat them on a separate pan to make them a little crispy.
Assemble Your Tacos
Once the sausage is cooked and the taco shells are ready, it’s time to assemble your tacos.
- Start with a Taco Shell: Grab a warm taco shell and place it on your plate. It’s always best when they’re fresh and pliable, so they don’t crack.
- Add the Chicken Sausage: Spoon the cooked chicken sausage into the shell. Pile it up as much as you like—more sausage, more flavour.
- Top with Fresh Ingredients:
- Begin with a layer of shredded lettuce. The crunch adds texture to balance the sausage.
- Next, add a few spoonfuls of diced tomatoes. These bring a fresh, juicy bite that complements the savoury sausage.
- Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top—cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Spice It Up: For an extra kick, drizzle on some salsa. Whether you like it mild or fiery, it’s a quick way to boost the flavour profile.
- Optional Creaminess: If you want to bring in a creamy contrast, add a spoonful of sour cream or a few slices of avocado or guacamole. It’s not necessary, but it elevates the taco to the next level.
- Fold and Enjoy: Fold up your taco and take that first glorious bite. You’ve just created a meal that’s full of textures and flavours—crispy, juicy, cheesy, and spicy all in one bite.
Final Tips for Chicken Sausage Tacos
Tacos are endlessly adaptable. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make them your own:
- Experiment with Toppings: Want to add some extra flavour? Toss in black beans, corn, or jalapeños. If you like a little heat, these are perfect additions. Just keep in mind, not everyone loves spicy food, so consider keeping the heat optional.
- Use Leftovers Wisely: If you have any leftover chicken sausage, don’t toss it. Toss it in a salad, throw it in a wrap, or add it to your favourite pasta dish. It’s easy to repurpose for another quick meal.
- Taco Night with Friends: Make taco night more interactive by setting up a taco bar. Lay out all the toppings and let everyone build their own tacos. It’s an easy way to get everyone involved and make the meal more fun.
Chicken sausage tacos are easy to make and packed with flavour. They’re ideal for a quick dinner after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe is quick, satisfying, and a breeze to customize.
Conclusions
Chicken sausage tacos are a delicious and easy meal that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Customize your tacos to suit your tastes, and don’t forget to use any leftovers creatively. Making tacos together can turn dinner into a fun event. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ
What are some easy tips for making delicious chicken sausage tacos in 30 minutes?
To make delicious chicken sausage tacos in 30 minutes, focus on using pre-cooked chicken sausage for quicker prep. Cook your sausage in a pan, then chop it up and combine it with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, or shredded cheese. Keep the seasoning simple, and don’t forget to warm your tortillas for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use chicken sausage for tacos instead of regular sausage?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken sausage for tacos! Chicken sausage is a leaner alternative to regular sausage and still delivers amazing flavor in your tacos. Just slice or crumble the sausage before cooking, and it will pair wonderfully with taco toppings like fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
How do I season chicken sausage for tacos?
Seasoning chicken sausage for tacos is simple and versatile. You can add taco seasoning for a quick flavor boost or create your own blend with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika. Adjust the spice level based on your preferences, and you’ll have a tasty filling in no time.
What toppings go well with chicken sausage tacos?
Toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sour cream pair perfectly with chicken sausage tacos. For extra flavor, add some pickled onions or a drizzle of hot sauce. Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime can add a nice touch to elevate the taste.
How can I prepare chicken sausage tacos for meal prep?
To prep chicken sausage tacos for the week, cook the sausage in advance, chop it up, and store it in airtight containers. You can also prep your taco toppings like diced veggies, sauces, and tortillas separately. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble your tacos in minutes for a quick, delicious meal.
References
- https://sarahpadams.com/home/2020/3/13/chicken-sausage-tacos
- https://bevcooks.com/2011/10/chicken-sausage-tacos-with-cilantro-yogurt-sauce/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-for-weight-loss/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/cherry-tomato-salsa-special-recipe/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-cheddar-cheese/
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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.
