This Easy Apple Chicken Sausage Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal! Juicy chicken sausages, sweet apples, and colorful veggies come together for a wholesome dish that’s super simple to make.
It’s fast and perfect for busy nights! I love it when I can use just one pan—it makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the combo of savory sausage and sweet apple? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: I recommend using apple or herb-flavored chicken sausage for the best flavor. If you need a substitute, turkey sausage or even plant-based sausages work well too!
Apples: Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Fuji apples are sweet and crisp. Feel free to use whatever apples you have on hand, but avoid very soft varieties.
Onion: A medium onion is perfect, but you can swap it for shallots or green onions for a different flavor twist.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper adds sweetness, but you can use other colors (like yellow or orange) or even zucchini for variation.
Thyme: Dried thyme is convenient, but if you have fresh thyme, use it! Just remember, fresh herbs are often more potent, so adjust the amount to taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Sausage Browning?
Browning the sausage well adds flavor to the entire dish. Start with a medium heat and make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the sausage to brown rather than steam.
- Add the sausage and let it sit for a minute before flipping; this helps form a nice crust.
- Use a non-stick or cast iron skillet for the best browning results.
- Keep an eye to avoid burning, as sausage can brown quickly.
Following this technique boosts the yummy flavor in every bite!
Easy Apple Chicken Sausage Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken sausage links (preferably apple or herb-flavored), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oil:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of just under 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before you add the sausage.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Next, add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally until they are browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
4. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Now, add the minced garlic, thyme, and ground cinnamon to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Cook the Apples:
Then, add the sliced apples to the skillet. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften but still hold their shape.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves. Serve warm, and enjoy your Easy Apple Chicken Sausage Skillet!
This meal is not only tasty but also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage adds a nice flavor, you can use turkey, pork, or even veggie sausages. Just make sure they are fully cooked if they are pre-cooked sausages.
What Kind of Apples Work Best?
For this dish, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Fuji work wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with different types based on your preference!
Can I Prepare This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can slice the sausages, apples, and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge separately. Just sauté everything together when you’re ready to cook.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!