This Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together juicy chicken sausages, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic onions in a quick one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The balance of savory sausage with sweet, tender peppers makes every bite a delight that feels both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe sing. Each item plays a simple but crucial role — from the juicy chicken sausages providing protein and savoriness, to the bell peppers adding sweetness and a pop of color that makes the dish visually inviting.
- 4 chicken sausages: Choose your favorite flavor or style, as this is the star that drives the dish’s meaty goodness.
- 2 bell peppers: A mix of red, yellow, or orange peppers adds sweetness and a beautiful, vibrant hue.
- 1 onion: Sliced thinly, it brings a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic provides an aromatic boost and a punch of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and giving everything a luscious, silky finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors.
- Fresh herbs for garnish: Think parsley, basil, or thyme to add a fresh, herbaceous note just before serving.
How to Make Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing the chicken sausages into bite-sized pieces, and slice the bell peppers and onions into thin strips. Having everything ready before you cook makes the process smooth and enjoyable. This prep work ensures that each ingredient cooks evenly and melds perfectly.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausages
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step is crucial—it locks in flavor and gives the dish a satisfying texture that’s both juicy and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausages are browned, add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the pan. Toss them around and cook until the vegetables become tender but still retain a bit of their bite. This soft but slightly crisp texture makes every mouthful refreshing and balanced.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Season the entire skillet with salt and pepper to taste, allowing the simple seasoning to elevate all the natural flavors. Finish by sprinkling fresh herbs over the dish—this fresh touch adds brightness and a little something special that makes this recipe truly memorable.
How to Serve Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are your best friends here. A handful of chopped parsley or basil tossed on top just before serving adds a lovely aroma and a burst of color that makes the dish irresistibly inviting. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes brings warmth and a touch of spice that complements the sausage beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve it alongside fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crusty piece of artisan bread to soak up the delicious juices. A crisp green salad also makes a refreshing, light partner to balance the richness of the sausage.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the chicken sausage and bell peppers over soft polenta for a comforting twist. You can also toss it with cooked pasta and a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle with Parmesan for a hearty, rustic meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, stuff the mixture into warm pita pockets for a handheld treat perfect for lunch or casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container once cooled. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This means you can enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe even when life gets hectic.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to keep the sausages juicy and the vegetables tender. Alternatively, the microwave works fine for quick reheats; just be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps it light and lean, you can swap in turkey, pork, or even spicy chorizo depending on your preference. Each will bring its own unique flavor twist to the dish.
Are there any vegetable substitutes for bell peppers?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of bell peppers or have other veggies on hand, sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes make excellent alternatives that cook well in the skillet.
How spicy is this Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe?
This dish is naturally mild, making it family-friendly. However, you can easily add heat with crushed red pepper flakes or by choosing spicy chicken sausage varieties.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! The ingredients themselves are naturally gluten-free, just ensure that the chicken sausage you buy does not contain any gluten fillers or additives.
What’s the best way to serve this for meal prep?
Divide the cooked skillet mix into individual containers with a side of rice or roasted potatoes for balanced, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. It reheats beautifully and maintains its flavor after a few days.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about this Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe that makes it a go-to for busy days when you want delicious food without fuss. Its bright colors, comforting flavors, and simple steps make it a winner every time. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
Print
Chicken Sausage and Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Sausage Bell Peppers recipe featuring sautéed chicken sausages, colorful bell peppers, and onions, enhanced with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for a nutritious and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 chicken sausages
Vegetables
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the chicken sausages, bell peppers, and onion into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
- Sauté the Sausages: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausages and cook until they are browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the pan with the sausages. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crunch, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season and Garnish: Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving to add aroma and freshness.
Notes
- Feel free to use your favorite variety of chicken sausages—spicy or mild—depending on your preference.
- You can add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
