This Quick Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies recipe is perfect for busy days! Juicy chicken sausages and colorful veggies come together in no time at all.
The air fryer makes everything crispy and tasty with less oil. I love how simple it is; just toss in your favorite veggies and sausages, set the timer, and enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausage: Opt for lean chicken sausage for lower fat. If you can’t find it, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage works well too. I love using spicy sausage for an extra kick, but mild options are just as tasty.
Vegetables: Zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onions give great flavor and color. Feel free to swap in other veggies like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, depending on your preference or what’s in your fridge!
Olive Oil: This helps everything cook evenly. You can use avocado oil or even a cooking spray if you’re looking to cut down on oil a bit. Just remember not to miss this step, as it adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning fill this dish with flavor. You might also try adding paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs like basil or oregano for some variations!
How Do I Ensure My Sausage and Veggies Cook Evenly in the Air Fryer?
The key to perfectly cooked veggies and sausages is to make sure they’re in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your air fryer so it’s hot when you add the food.
- Cut the vegetables and sausage into similar sizes. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- If your air fryer is small, cook in batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking. This aerates the food and ensures everything gets that nice crispy texture.
Following these tips will help your dish turn out perfectly every time! Enjoy your meal!
Quick Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausage links, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal in about 20 minutes total. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it heat for about 5 minutes so it’s at the perfect temperature when ready to cook!
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken sausage, zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion. This colorful mix not only looks great but tastes amazing too!
3. Season the Mixture:
Drizzle the olive oil over the sausage and veggies. Then sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss everything well, making sure all the pieces are nicely coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Load the Air Fryer:
Place the mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If your air fryer isn’t big enough, feel free to cook in batches to ensure even cooking!
5. Cook to Perfection:
Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to distribute the heat evenly and get that nice crispiness.
6. Check for Doneness:
After cooking, check that the sausages are browned and cooked through, while the veggies should be tender with some delicious charring.
7. Serve & Garnish:
Transfer the mixture to serving bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness!
8. Enjoy:
For a complete meal, consider serving your sausage and veggies over cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Enjoy your quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken sausage with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using a different type of sausage, as some may require longer to cook.
What Vegetables Can I Use?
You’re welcome to mix up the veggies! Broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or even green beans work well. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes as the other vegetables for even cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the sausage and veggies ahead of time! Just store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. For best results, try to cook within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes or use the microwave until heated through.
