Chicken sausage is a favorite protein option for those looking for a flavorful yet healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. Packed with protein and lower in fat, chicken sausage is a staple for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between. Its mild flavor allows it to pair well with a wide array of ingredients, making it the star of many dishes.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday meal or hosting a weekend gathering, chicken sausage can easily adapt to the theme and occasion. From comforting pasta dishes to zesty stir-fries, chicken sausage offers endless possibilities for your culinary creations.
When thinking about what to eat chicken sausage with, the answer often depends on the meal of the day and your taste preferences. For breakfast, it’s great with eggs and toast, while at dinner, it can shine in pasta dishes or alongside roasted vegetables. The versatility of chicken sausage means you can get creative with flavors and cuisines, making it a fantastic addition to your menu.
Breakfast Pairings
When it comes to breakfast, chicken sausage can take your morning meal to the next level with its savory and satisfying flavor. Its versatility allows it to be paired with both traditional and innovative breakfast staples. Here are some delicious breakfast ideas to enjoy chicken sausage:
1. Chicken Sausage with Eggs
A classic combination, chicken sausage pairs perfectly with eggs in almost any form—scrambled, fried, poached, or boiled. Here’s how to make it even better:
- Scrambled Eggs and Sausage: Slice the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces and sauté them with onions and bell peppers. Once cooked, mix them into fluffy scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Sausage Omelet: Add diced chicken sausage to your omelet mix, along with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes, for a protein-packed start to your day.
- Egg Muffins: Combine chopped chicken sausage, eggs, and veggies in a muffin tin and bake them for a grab-and-go breakfast option.
2. Breakfast Burritos
Chicken sausage adds a smoky and savory element to breakfast burritos, which are perfect for busy mornings. Wrap the sausage in a warm tortilla with scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, and salsa. For an added layer of flavor, include avocado slices or sautéed onions.
3. Pancakes or Waffles with Chicken Sausage
For those who enjoy a mix of sweet and savory flavors, pairing chicken sausage with pancakes or waffles is a match made in heaven. Serve the sausage on the side with a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious contrast.
- Chicken Sausage Pancake Bites: Roll small pieces of chicken sausage in pancake batter and cook them like mini pancakes for a fun, kid-friendly option.
- Waffles and Sausage Sandwich: Use waffles as a base and sandwich sliced chicken sausage, a fried egg, and a slice of cheese for a breakfast twist.
4. Breakfast Bowls
Layer chicken sausage with your favorite breakfast bowl ingredients for a nutritious and filling start to your day. Popular combinations include:
- Grain Bowl: Combine quinoa or brown rice with chicken sausage, a poached egg, sautéed greens, and avocado.
- Hash Bowl: Toss chicken sausage with roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty hash bowl.
5. Chicken Sausage and Toast
For a simple yet satisfying breakfast, pair chicken sausage with toasted bread. You can add toppings like mashed avocado, a fried egg, or even melted cheese to make it more indulgent.
6. Biscuits and Chicken Sausage Gravy
Take a Southern-inspired approach by pairing chicken sausage with flaky biscuits and creamy sausage gravy. Use cooked chicken sausage to make a lighter version of the classic gravy, adding milk, flour, and seasonings like black pepper and thyme.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage for Breakfast
Chicken sausage is an excellent source of protein, making it a great choice for a balanced breakfast. It keeps you full longer, helping you stay energized throughout the morning. Additionally, many chicken sausage brands are lower in fat and calories compared to traditional sausage, offering a healthier way to enjoy breakfast classics.
With these breakfast ideas, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy chicken sausage in the morning. It’s quick to prepare, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of breakfast staples.
Lunch Ideas
Chicken sausage is a fantastic ingredient to elevate your lunch. Its versatility and quick preparation make it ideal for various midday meals. Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, chicken sausage pairs well with a range of flavors and textures. Here are some creative lunch ideas to enjoy chicken sausage:
1. Chicken Sausage Sandwiches
Sandwiches are a classic lunch option, and chicken sausage can make them even more satisfying. Try these variations:
- Sausage and Veggie Sandwich: Slice grilled chicken sausage and layer it with roasted peppers, onions, and a dollop of pesto on a crusty baguette.
- Chicken Sausage Panini: Combine sliced chicken sausage with mozzarella, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. Press it in a panini maker or grill until golden and melty.
- Sausage Wraps: Roll chicken sausage, lettuce, and a creamy dressing in a whole-wheat tortilla for a quick and portable lunch option.
2. Salads with Chicken Sausage
Chicken sausage adds a savory protein boost to salads, transforming them into a filling meal. Here are some ideas:
- Mediterranean Salad: Toss chicken sausage slices with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-olive oil dressing.
- Grain Salad: Combine quinoa, chicken sausage, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a hearty and healthy salad.
- Spinach and Sausage Salad: Pair baby spinach with grilled chicken sausage, candied pecans, goat cheese, and a raspberry vinaigrette.
3. Chicken Sausage Tacos
Give your tacos a twist by using chicken sausage as the star ingredient. Slice the sausage and sauté it with spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Serve it in warm tortillas with toppings like shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Breakfast-Style Tacos: For brunch-style tacos, add scrambled eggs and salsa alongside the sausage.
- Grilled Sausage Tacos: Grill chicken sausage and serve with a tangy slaw made from cabbage, lime juice, and cilantro.
4. Chicken Sausage Pizza
Use chicken sausage as a flavorful topping for homemade or store-bought pizza. It pairs well with a variety of toppings:
- Classic Style: Pair chicken sausage with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and bell peppers.
- BBQ Chicken Sausage Pizza: Spread barbecue sauce on the crust, top with chicken sausage, red onions, and cheddar cheese.
- Pesto Pizza: Use pesto as the base sauce, then add chicken sausage, cherry tomatoes, and arugula.
5. Rice or Quinoa Bowls
Chicken sausage works wonderfully in bowls, combining grains, veggies, and sauces for a well-rounded meal. Try these combinations:
- Teriyaki Bowl: Mix chicken sausage with stir-fried vegetables and drizzle with teriyaki sauce. Serve over brown rice or quinoa.
- Cajun Sausage Bowl: Add spicy chicken sausage to a bowl of dirty rice, black beans, and a sprinkle of scallions.
- Mediterranean Bowl: Include chicken sausage, hummus, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a side of pita bread.
6. Pasta Lunches
Pasta and chicken sausage are a match made in heaven. Here are some quick pasta lunch ideas:
- Sausage and Veggie Pasta: Combine cooked pasta with sautéed chicken sausage, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
- Creamy Alfredo with Sausage: Add chicken sausage slices to a creamy Alfredo sauce and serve over fettuccine or penne.
- Spicy Sausage Pasta: Use spicy chicken sausage in a marinara sauce with crushed red pepper flakes for a bold flavor.
7. Chicken Sausage Soup
For a comforting lunch, try chicken sausage in soups:
- Sausage and Lentil Soup: Combine chicken sausage with lentils, carrots, celery, and a hearty vegetable broth.
- Chicken Sausage Chili: Use diced chicken sausage in place of ground meat in your favorite chili recipe. Add beans, tomatoes, and spices for a filling and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage for Lunch
Incorporating chicken sausage into your lunch not only adds protein but also helps keep you energized for the rest of the day. It’s a great way to make simple dishes more filling without adding too much fat or calories.
These lunch ideas offer a range of flavors and cuisines to keep your meals exciting and satisfying. Chicken sausage’s adaptability means you can mix and match ingredients to create endless combinations.
Dinner Recipes
When it comes to dinner, chicken sausage shines as a versatile ingredient that can be used in hearty, wholesome meals. Whether you prefer one-pot dishes, baked casseroles, or quick stir-fries, chicken sausage adds bold flavor and satisfying protein to your evening meal. Let’s dive into some delicious dinner recipes featuring chicken sausage.
1. Chicken Sausage Pasta Dishes
Chicken sausage pairs beautifully with pasta, offering endless possibilities for comforting and flavorful dinners.
- Sausage and Penne in Marinara Sauce: Sauté chicken sausage slices with onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then simmer in marinara sauce. Toss with penne pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Creamy Sausage Alfredo: Combine fettuccine with a creamy Alfredo sauce and add sautéed chicken sausage and spinach for a rich and indulgent meal.
- Spicy Sausage Arrabbiata: Use spicy chicken sausage in a zesty tomato-based arrabbiata sauce. Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat, and serve over spaghetti or rigatoni.
2. Rice and Quinoa Bowls
For a well-balanced dinner, chicken sausage can be the star of a hearty grain bowl.
- Sausage and Veggie Stir-Fry Bowl: Sauté chicken sausage with zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas. Serve over jasmine rice or quinoa with a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki glaze.
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Bowl: Add Cajun-seasoned chicken sausage to a bowl of dirty rice, black beans, and sautéed bell peppers for a spicy Southern-inspired dish.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: Combine chicken sausage with quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a light and refreshing dinner.
3. Chicken Sausage Stir-Fries
Stir-fries are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Chicken sausage makes an excellent addition to these versatile meals.
- Sweet and Sour Sausage Stir-Fry: Toss chicken sausage with pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onions in a sweet and sour sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
- Garlic and Ginger Sausage Stir-Fry: Stir-fry chicken sausage with garlic, ginger, broccoli, and carrots. Add soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dinner.
- Sausage and Noodle Stir-Fry: Use chicken sausage with rice noodles, bok choy, and mushrooms. Toss with a spicy peanut sauce or hoisin-based glaze.
4. One-Pot and Casserole Meals
For those who love minimal cleanup, one-pot meals and casseroles with chicken sausage are a great option.
- Sausage and Rice Casserole: Combine chicken sausage with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and sautéed onions. Bake with a sprinkle of shredded cheese until bubbly and golden.
- One-Pot Sausage and Vegetables: Cook chicken sausage with potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts in a large skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth and your favorite herbs for a hearty dinner.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mixture of diced chicken sausage, quinoa, black beans, and marinara sauce. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
5. Chicken Sausage with Roasted Vegetables
A simple sheet-pan dinner with chicken sausage and roasted vegetables is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
- Roasted Sausage and Potatoes: Toss chicken sausage with baby potatoes, carrots, and rosemary. Roast until golden and crispy.
- Mediterranean Veggie Bake: Combine chicken sausage with zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender.
- Autumn Harvest Bowl: Roast chicken sausage with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and apples for a fall-inspired dinner.
6. International-Inspired Dinners
Chicken sausage can be incorporated into dishes inspired by global cuisines.
- Italian Sausage Risotto: Add sliced chicken sausage to a creamy Parmesan risotto with peas and mushrooms for an Italian-style dinner.
- Sausage Gumbo: Use chicken sausage in a flavorful gumbo with okra, shrimp, and a spicy roux-based broth. Serve over steamed rice.
- Sausage and Kimchi Fried Rice: Stir-fry chicken sausage with cooked rice, kimchi, green onions, and a fried egg for a Korean-inspired dish.
7. Grilled and Barbecue Dishes
Grilled chicken sausage is perfect for summer dinners or any time you crave smoky flavors.
- Sausage Kebabs: Thread chicken sausage, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions onto skewers. Grill and serve with a side of tzatziki or barbecue sauce.
- Grilled Sausage with Corn on the Cob: Serve chicken sausage with grilled corn, a side salad, and a drizzle of melted butter for a simple BBQ dinner.
- Barbecue Sausage Sliders: Add grilled chicken sausage to slider buns with coleslaw and a tangy BBQ sauce for a fun and easy meal.
Tips for Preparing Chicken Sausage for Dinner
- Choose the Right Sausage: Opt for flavored chicken sausages like Italian, Cajun, or herb-infused varieties to enhance your dish.
- Pre-Cook for Speed: Many chicken sausages are pre-cooked, allowing you to save time during meal prep.
- Balance the Meal: Pair chicken sausage with a mix of carbs, vegetables, and sauces to create a complete dinner.
These dinner ideas showcase the versatility of chicken sausage, making it a go-to ingredient for quick and flavorful meals. From pasta and rice dishes to global-inspired creations, chicken sausage is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Side Dishes and Appetizers
Chicken sausage isn’t just the star of main dishes—it can also shine as a delicious addition to side dishes and appetizers. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a potluck, or a party, these ideas show how versatile chicken sausage can be in enhancing your menu.
Side Dishes to Pair with Chicken Sausage
Side dishes can elevate any chicken sausage meal, offering complementary flavors and textures to create a balanced plate. Here are some delicious options:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken sausage. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the savory taste of the sausage.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor. Serve alongside grilled or roasted chicken sausage.
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme for a fragrant twist.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are an easy and nutritious side that pairs beautifully with chicken sausage.
- Sheet-Pan Roasted Veggies: Toss carrots, broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Roast sweet potato wedges seasoned with paprika and cinnamon for a sweet-and-savory complement to sausage.
3. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a quick and elegant side dish for chicken sausage. Simply toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill or roast until tender. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
4. Rice Pilaf
A fragrant rice pilaf is another excellent pairing with chicken sausage. Use basmati or jasmine rice and mix in sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs like parsley or dill.
- Vegetable Rice Pilaf: Include peas, carrots, and toasted almonds for added texture and flavor.
- Lemon Herb Rice: Add lemon zest and fresh parsley to give the pilaf a fresh and zesty flavor.
5. Creamy Polenta
Polenta, made from cornmeal, is a comforting and creamy side dish that pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken sausage. Add Parmesan cheese and butter for extra richness, or serve it topped with a tomato-based sauce.
6. Coleslaw
A crunchy coleslaw is a refreshing side dish, especially when serving chicken sausage in barbecue or summer grilling meals.
- Classic Creamy Coleslaw: Use cabbage, carrots, and a creamy mayo-based dressing.
- Vinegar Slaw: Opt for a lighter version with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of honey.
7. Warm Potato Salad
Swap out the traditional cold potato salad for a warm version made with roasted potatoes, bacon bits, chopped chicken sausage, and a mustard-based dressing.
Appetizers Featuring Chicken Sausage
Chicken sausage is also a fantastic ingredient for appetizers. It’s flavorful, easy to work with, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try these ideas:
1. Sausage Skewers
Skewers are a versatile appetizer option that’s easy to make and fun to eat.
- Grilled Sausage and Veggie Skewers: Thread chicken sausage with cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, and bell peppers. Grill and serve with a dipping sauce like tzatziki or marinara.
- Caprese Sausage Skewers: Pair slices of chicken sausage with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil on toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a refined touch.
2. Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
Create bite-sized appetizers by stuffing large mushroom caps with a mixture of diced chicken sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly.
3. Sausage Pastry Bites
Wrap chicken sausage pieces in puff pastry for a quick and delicious appetizer.
- Sausage Rolls: Use pre-made puff pastry to wrap chicken sausage. Brush with egg wash and bake until golden.
- Cheese-Stuffed Sausage Bites: Add a slice of cheese inside the pastry for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Sausage and Cheese Platter
Create a charcuterie-style platter with sliced chicken sausage, an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruits like grapes and figs. Add nuts and honey for a sophisticated touch.
5. Mini Sausage Tacos
Serve chicken sausage in mini taco shells with toppings like guacamole, salsa, and shredded lettuce. These bite-sized tacos are great for parties or casual gatherings.
6. Sausage Dips
Incorporate chicken sausage into warm, creamy dips.
- Cheesy Sausage Dip: Combine cooked chicken sausage with cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and diced tomatoes. Heat until melted and bubbly, then serve with tortilla chips or crusty bread.
- Spinach and Sausage Dip: Add diced chicken sausage to a spinach and artichoke dip for extra protein and flavor.
7. Flatbread with Chicken Sausage
Make mini flatbreads topped with chicken sausage, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil. Bake until the cheese is melted and the flatbread is crisp.
Quick Tips for Sides and Appetizers
- Flavor Pairing: Match the flavors of your sides or appetizers with the seasoning in the chicken sausage. For example, spicy sausages pair well with creamy dips, while herbed sausages complement roasted vegetables.
- Prep Ahead: Many side dishes and appetizers, like roasted vegetables or stuffed mushrooms, can be prepped ahead of time for convenience.
These side dishes and appetizers make chicken sausage even more enjoyable, whether you’re serving it at a casual family meal or a fancy gathering. With so many options, you’ll have no trouble creating a menu that highlights the savory and versatile qualities of chicken sausage.
FAQs and Conclusion
Chicken sausage is an incredibly versatile ingredient, but people often have questions about how to prepare, pair, and store it. In this section, we’ll address some frequently asked questions and wrap up with final thoughts on how to enjoy chicken sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Sausage
1. What are some healthy ways to cook chicken sausage?
Healthy methods for cooking chicken sausage include grilling, baking, or pan-searing without excessive oil. Pairing chicken sausage with vegetables, whole grains, or a light salad helps create balanced meals. Opt for leaner sausages with low sodium and natural ingredients.
2. Can I use chicken sausage in place of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken sausage can be a great substitute for pork sausage in most recipes. It’s often lower in fat and calories but still provides a robust flavor, making it a healthier alternative for dishes like pasta, pizza, soups, and casseroles.
3. How do I know when chicken sausage is fully cooked?
If the chicken sausage is raw or uncooked, it should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Pre-cooked chicken sausage only needs to be heated through, usually until it’s warmed and browned on the outside.
4. What sauces pair well with chicken sausage?
Chicken sausage pairs well with a variety of sauces, depending on the dish:
- Marinara Sauce: Ideal for pasta or pizza dishes.
- Mustard-Based Sauces: Great for grilled sausage or sandwiches.
- BBQ Sauce: Perfect for sausage sliders or kebabs.
- Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Delicious in pasta dishes.
- Chimichurri or Pesto: Adds a fresh, herbaceous element to grilled or roasted sausage.
5. Can chicken sausage be frozen?
Yes, chicken sausage can be frozen, whether it’s raw or cooked. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 6 months in the freezer, but for the best taste, consume it within 3 months. Thaw frozen chicken sausage in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
6. How do I incorporate chicken sausage into kid-friendly meals?
Chicken sausage works well in kid-approved dishes such as:
- Sausage Mac and Cheese: Add small sausage pieces to creamy macaroni and cheese.
- Mini Sausage Pizzas: Use English muffins or flatbreads as pizza bases and top with sausage slices.
- Sausage Hot Dogs: Replace regular hot dogs with chicken sausage in buns and let kids add their favorite toppings.
Pasta Dishes: Toss chicken sausage slices into creamy Alfredo or spicy marinara pasta. For more inspiration, try our chicken apple sausage recipes.
Check out our recipe for thin-cut chicken breast to find complementary breakfast ideas!
For more sauce ideas, check out the best sauces for salmon and adapt them for chicken sausage.
Conclusion: Endless Possibilities with Chicken Sausage
Chicken sausage is an incredibly versatile ingredient that seamlessly blends into countless recipes, making it a staple for any meal of the day. Its mild, savory flavor and leaner profile compared to traditional sausages make it a healthier yet satisfying choice.
From breakfast scrambles to hearty pastas, flavorful stir-fries, and even creative appetizers, chicken sausage adds a unique twist to your dishes. It pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, and sauces, allowing you to explore global cuisines and elevate everyday meals. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick lunch, or crafting a dinner masterpiece, chicken sausage is a reliable and delicious option.
With these ideas, you’ll never run out of inspiration for incorporating chicken sausage into your meals. So fire up the grill, warm up the skillet, or preheat the oven, and let chicken sausage be the star of your next dish!