Cooking chicken sausage on the stove is super easy and doesn’t take much time at all. First, grab a skillet and heat it up over medium heat, add a little bit of oil just to keep things from sticking. Once it’s hot, toss in your chicken sausages. Let them sizzle and start browning, turning them every few minutes so they get that nice golden color all the way around. For example, smoked chicken sausage takes about 8–10 minutes in a sauté pan over medium heat to cook through, plus 2 minutes extra to brown(1).If you’re working with raw sausage links, make sure to cook them all the way through, use a meat thermometer if you’ve got one, and aim for an internal temp of 165°F. It usually takes about 10–15 minutes depending on thickness. Once they’re done, take them off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all the juices inside, so you get the most flavorful, juicy bite every time. Serve them whole, sliced, or however you like!
Key Takeaway
- Always brown chicken sausage on medium heat for crisp skin and juicy centers.
- Use a thermometer, 165°F means safe, juicy sausage every time.
- Turn links often with tongs and finish with a covered simmer for even cooking.
Selecting and Preparing Chicken Sausage for Stove Cooking
When cooking chicken sausage, it’s important to know how to prepare it. Here are some easy steps to follow:
- Choose the Right Sausage: There are many types of chicken sausage. Look for options that are made with quality ingredients. Check the label for flavors you like, such as Italian or spicy.
- Thawing: If your sausage is frozen, make sure to cook chicken sausage from frozen properly. You can thaw it by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the microwave for a quick thaw.
- Prepping the Pan: Before cooking, get your pan ready. Use a non-stick skillet or a cast iron pan for best results. Heat the pan over medium heat. It’s important to use steady heat for chicken sausage.
As you cook, pay attention to how it sizzles. Chicken sausage cooks differently than pork sausage. It may take a bit longer, so patience is key.
- Cooking Time: Cook the sausage for about 12–15 minutes. Turn them often to make sure they brown evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and know when the chicken sausage is done. It should reach 165°F to be safe to eat.
- Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, slice the sausage or serve it whole. It goes well with pasta, rice, or veggies. You can also add it to soups or salads for extra flavor.
By following these simple steps, anyone can prepare delicious chicken sausage on the stove. Enjoy the cooking process and the tasty results!
Types of Chicken Sausage
Some come pre-cooked, others raw. You can tell by the color, pre-cooked is uniform and pale, raw is pink and softer.
Pre-cooked Sausage: Ready for Reheating and Browning
Pre-cooked chicken sausage is good for quick meals. All it needs is a thorough warming and a little color.
Raw Sausage: Requires Thorough Cooking to Safe Temperature
Raw chicken sausage needs more attention. You must cook it through, not just brown the outside. The safest way is to check with a thermometer.
Preparing the Cooking Pan
I think the skillet you choose matters almost as much as the sausage.
Choosing the Right Skillet: Cast Iron vs Non-stick
Cast iron holds heat well, great for even browning. Non-stick works fine and is easier to clean, but you might not get as much crispness.
Adding Oil: Preventing Sticking and Enhancing Browning
A little oil, maybe a tablespoon, goes in first. Use olive oil or vegetable oil. Butter is good for flavor but can burn if too hot.
Heating the Pan Properly: Medium to Medium-High Heat Guidelines
Let the pan heat up until the oil shimmers. Medium to medium-high heat is your zone. Too low and you’ll get pale, limp sausage. Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks.
Step-by-Step Cooking Methods for Chicken Sausage
Source: Official Johnsonville
Cooking Pre-cooked Chicken Sausage
- Heat the Pan: Place the sausage links in a hot pan. Make sure not to crowd them.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Cook chicken sausage on medium heat. Turn them every couple of minutes.
- Brown All Sides: Aim to brown all sides for about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Make it Hot Inside: If you want the inside hot, add a splash of water (about half an inch). Cover the pan and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Final Browning: Remove the lid and let any water cook off. Brown them for another 2 to 3 minutes.
This method gives you crisp skin outside and a hot, juicy center every time.
Cooking Raw Chicken Sausage
- Add to Pan: Place raw chicken sausages in the hot, oiled pan.
- Initial Cooking: Cook on medium-high heat, flipping every 2 minutes for 6–8 minutes, until all sides are evenly browned, about 10–12 minutes total (2).
- Lower the Heat: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook for another 8 to 10 minutes. Turn once or twice during this time.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the sausages rest on a plate for a few minutes before slicing or serving.
This method keeps the juices inside and prevents burning. If the pan gets dry, add a splash of water and re-cover. Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken sausage!
Techniques to Promote Even Cooking and Juiciness
- Use Medium Heat: Avoid high heat for the entire cooking time. High heat can char the outside while leaving the inside raw. Medium heat helps cook the sausage evenly.
- Turn Regularly: Use tongs to turn the sausage links regularly. Don’t use a fork. Piercing the casing lets the juice escape, making the sausage dry.
- Add Moisture: For extra juiciness, add a little water or broth to the pan. Cover it and let the steam do some of the work. This helps keep the sausage moist while cooking.
- Crisp the Exterior: Near the end of cooking, uncover the pan. This allows the outside to crisp up before serving. A little browning adds flavor and texture.
By following these simple techniques, anyone can cook chicken sausage that is juicy and flavorful. Enjoy your meal with perfectly cooked sausage!
Safety and Quality Considerations
It doesn’t matter how good your stovetop chicken sausage recipe looks if it’s not safe to eat.
Ensuring Food Safety with Proper Internal Temperature
Chicken sausage must reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This kills bacteria and keeps you safe.
- Insert the thermometer into the center of the thickest link.
- If it’s not there yet, cover and cook a few minutes more.
Preventing Common Cooking Issues
- Don’t cook too fast or you’ll get burnt skin and raw insides.
- Don’t pierce the casing, juices will leak out, and the sausage dries up.
- If the casings begin to split, turn down the heat and add a little water.
Serving Ideas and Enhancements
Once the chicken sausage is cooked, there are many delicious ways to serve it. Here are some great ideas:
Complementary Side Dishes
- Sautéed Vegetables: Cooked bell peppers and onions in the same skillet add flavor and color.
- Rice or Pasta: Serve with white rice, brown rice, or quick pasta for a filling meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes make a tasty side. A simple salad is also a great option.
Incorporating Sausage into Sandwiches and Wraps
- Sausage Rolls: Slice the sausage and add it to crusty rolls. Top with mustard and pickles for a tasty bite.
- Wraps: Roll the sausage in tortillas with sautéed peppers and hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Flavor Boosters and Condiments
- Mustard: Spoon on grainy mustard or Dijon for a tangy flavor.
- Toppings: Add caramelized onions or roasted red peppers for extra taste.
- Herbs: Sprinkle chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving to brighten the dish.
Garnishing Tips for Visual Appeal and Taste
- Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh parsley or basil adds color and freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch.
- Cheese and Spice: Grated parmesan or a drizzle of hot sauce can give the dish an extra flavor boost.
These ideas make it easy to enjoy chicken sausage in many different ways. Get creative and have fun with your meal!
Conclusion
The best chicken sausage cooking method is the one you’ll use more than once. Start with medium heat and patience, and you’ll get sausage with crisp skin and juicy centers, every time. Keep a thermometer handy, trust your eyes and nose, and don’t rush the process. Serve with something you like, and maybe save a link or two for lunch tomorrow, cold chicken sausage in a sandwich is a secret treat.
FAQ
How do I cook chicken sausage stovetop without drying it out?
To keep chicken sausage juicy, cook on medium heat with a bit of oil. Turn often, don’t rush, and let them rest after cooking to lock in moisture.
What are some chicken sausage cooking techniques that prevent burning?
Cook chicken sausage on medium heat with a little oil. Don’t overcrowd, flip often, and cover with a lid to steam the inside and avoid burning.
What’s the difference in cooking raw chicken sausage vs. pre-cooked chicken sausage?
Raw chicken sausage takes 12–15 minutes, while pre-cooked only needs reheating and browning. Both should reach 165°F, but cooking methods vary by type.
How do I store and reheat chicken sausage after cooking?
Let sausages cool, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water and a lid to keep flavor and texture.
References
- https://www.aidells.com/products/dinner-sausage/chicken-apple
- https://www.realfoodwithsarah.com/air-fryer-chicken-sausage/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-cook-chicken-sausage-from-frozen/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-know-when-chicken-sausage-is-done/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-cook-chicken-sausage-at-home/
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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.
