This dish is a real time-saver! Juicy chicken sausage paired with colorful veggies comes together in just 10 minutes in the air fryer. It’s simple, tasty, and full of flavor!
You can’t go wrong with a quick meal that’s also colorful. Plus, the air fryer makes everything crispy without the fuss! I love serving it with a side of rice for a complete plate.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Sausages: Using chicken sausages keeps the dish lighter and flavorful. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausages or even chickpeas for protein. They can offer a nice texture and taste!
Veggies: Zucchini and bell peppers add crunch and color. Feel free to swap in other veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots based on what’s in your fridge. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This helps to get everything nice and crispy. You can substitute with avocado oil or a different cooking oil you prefer. If you’re watching calories, you could use a light spray instead.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning enhance flavor. Don’t hesitate to use fresh herbs if you have them—basil or thyme would work wonderfully. Or, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
How Do I Ensure Perfect Cooking in the Air Fryer?
Cooking with an air fryer can be a bit tricky if you’re not used to it. Here are some tips for getting everything just right:
- Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking. It makes a big difference in how quickly your food cooks.
- Layering: Avoid overcrowding the basket. Spread the sausage and veggies in a single layer for the best crispiness.
- Shaking and tossing: Give the basket a shake halfway through cooking. This helps everything cook evenly and prevents sticking.
- Use a food thermometer: To ensure sausages are cooked through, check they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
With these tips and ingredient ideas, you’re all set for a delicious and easy meal in no time!
Easy 10-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken sausages (about 12-16 oz), whole or cut into pieces
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and delightful dish takes just about 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer, plus a few minutes for prep. You’ll have a nutritious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps get everything cooking evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken sausages, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion. This colorful mix will make your dish both tasty and appealing!
3. Add Oil and Seasoning:
Drizzle the olive oil over the sausage and veggies. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings will bring delicious flavors to your dish.
4. Toss to Combine:
Toss everything together until the sausage and veggies are coated evenly with oil and seasonings. This will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor!
5. Air Fry the Mixture:
Place the sausage and vegetable mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s best not to overcrowd the basket—if needed, you can cook in batches.
6. Cook to Perfection:
Air fry the mixture at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through. This will help everything cook evenly and get that lovely crispy texture.
7. Check and Serve:
Once the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender with a nice char, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer. You can check that the sausages are fully cooked by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately. This meal is perfect on its own or alongside a serving of rice or quinoa.
Enjoy this quick, flavorful, and colorful chicken sausage and veggie dish perfect for a hassle-free weeknight meal!
For more sausage-inspired dinners, try the savory Easy Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions, the cozy Easy Italian Sausage Orzo, or the indulgent Smoked Sausage and Mozzarella Pasta. They’re all simple to make and guaranteed to be family favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different type.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
You can easily substitute the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Broccoli, asparagus, or even snap peas work well. Just ensure the sizes are similar for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply toss the mixture back in the air fryer for a few minutes or use the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can chop the vegetables and sausage ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just seasoning and air frying them right before you’re ready to eat for maximum freshness!
Conclusion on Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Easy 10-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies is a quick, colorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender sausage, fresh vegetables, and savory seasoning makes it both satisfying and wholesome. If you’re craving more sausage-inspired dishes, try the bold flavors of our Easy Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions or the hearty Easy Italian Sausage Orzo. For cheesy comfort, the Smoked Sausage and Mozzarella Pasta is a must. You can also explore Southern classics like our rich Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo or the satisfying Hearty One-Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner. And if you enjoy creamy, spicy flavors, don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta—each recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make.
