Looking for a flavorful and easy way to elevate your meal game? Look no further than Italian chicken sausage! This versatile ingredient can be used in a variety of dishes, from hearty pasta sauces to quick weeknight stir-fries. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering Italian chicken sausage recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends, these recipes are sure to impress. From classic pairings like sausage and peppers to innovative twists like sausages stuffed inside shells, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of Italian chicken sausage and explore its many uses and flavor combinations. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some deliciousness!
Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a spicy kick from chicken sausage, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
– 1 lb. spicy Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Italian Chicken Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying grilled chicken sausage recipe, perfectly paired with caramelized peppers and onions. This classic combination is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style chicken sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add sliced onions and bell peppers; toss to coat.
3. Grill sausages for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, grill pepper mixture for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender.
5. Serve sausages with roasted peppers and onions. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Italian Chicken Sausage Risotto
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines creamy risotto with savory chicken sausage and vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. Reduce heat to medium; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed, about 1 minute.
5. Warm chicken broth in a separate pot. Add warmed broth to skillet, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking risotto, stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Kale Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with spicy Italian chicken sausage, tender kale, and aromatic vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add kale, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until kale is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Italian Chicken Sausage with Potatoes and Rosemary
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Tender chicken sausage, crispy potatoes, and fragrant rosemary come together in a deliciously easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian chicken sausages
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken sausages on one half of the baking sheet.
4. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on the other half of the baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken sausage is cooked through and potatoes are crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italian chicken sausage with the slight bitterness of broccoli rabe, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, sliced
– 3 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli rabe, garlic, and heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer until sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the sausage and broccoli rabe mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Italian Chicken Sausage and Veggie Bake
A flavorful and easy one-pan recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep. This dish combines juicy chicken sausage, colorful vegetables, and savory seasonings in a single pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle with oregano and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savory bell peppers filled with juicy chicken sausage, creamy ricotta, and flavorful herbs make for a satisfying and healthy meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, garlic, and oregano to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked sausage mixture, then top with ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Italian Chicken Sausage Pizza
A flavorful twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the spices of Italian chicken sausage with the richness of melted mozzarella and a hint of zesty tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 12 oz pizza dough
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
5. Spread pizza sauce over dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with sausage mixture, mozzarella cheese, and oregano.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of Italian flavors, featuring chicken sausage, cannellini beans, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and oregano.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sausage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skillet Italian Chicken Sausage with Garlic and Spinach
A flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy chicken sausage, crisp spinach, and savory garlic in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add chopped onion to the pan and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken sausage to the pan and stir to coat with tomato sauce.
6. Add fresh spinach leaves to the pan and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Mushroom Fettuccine
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italian chicken sausage, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy fettuccine for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Toss cooked fettuccine with the sausage-mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Chicken Sausage and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with chicken sausage adding a rich and savory element to the classic lentil soup. Simmering all day in your slow cooker makes it easy to come home to a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken sausage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked lentils
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Place the chicken sausage on top of the onion mixture.
3. Add the cooked lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Chicken Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomato Orzo
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty one-pot dish, combining juicy chicken sausage with tender orzo and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked orzo. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return sausage to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Grilled Italian Chicken Sausage and Zucchini Skewers
A flavorful and colorful summer treat that combines the best of Italy with a taste of the Mediterranean. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken sausage, zucchini, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until sausage is cooked through and zucchini is tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring flavorful chicken sausage and creamy ricotta filling inside tender shells of jumbo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-ricotta filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
7. Top stuffed shells with remaining cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Sausage with Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and effortless one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken sausage, crispy Brussels sprouts, and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage
– 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the chicken sausage on one half of the sheet pan.
4. In a bowl, toss Brussels sprouts and onion with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are caramelized.
6. During the last 10 minutes, pour the chicken broth over the vegetables to enhance the flavor.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Pesto Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the savory taste of Italian chicken sausage with the creamy richness of pesto, all tossed with al dente pasta and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook chicken sausage for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and parsley.
4. Slice grilled chicken sausage into thin strips and add to the bowl.
5. Stir in pesto until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a spicy kick from the chicken sausage, all on top of a nutritious quinoa bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Slice the chicken sausage into rounds and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked quinoa on top of the salad mixture.
6. Slice the chicken sausage into thin strips and place on top of the quinoa.
7. Drizzle with hot sauce (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Italy with a twist on traditional rice, featuring cauliflower “rice” instead. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to serve to guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook cauliflower “rice” in microwave according to package instructions (about 3-4 minutes). Drain excess moisture.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cauliflower “rice,” sausage mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of Italy with these 20 mouth-watering Italian chicken sausage recipes! From hearty pasta dishes like Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta and Creamy Italian Chicken Sausage Risotto, to flavorful soups like Italian Chicken Sausage and Kale Soup and One-Pan Italian Chicken Sausage and Veggie Bake, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes will satisfy your cravings with their rich flavors and aromas. So go ahead, bring Italy to your table, and indulge in the deliciousness!