When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Italian-inspired dishes are always a winner. And what better way to add a twist to traditional favorites than with the bold flavors of Italian-style chicken sausage? Whether you’re in the mood for hearty pasta dishes, savory stews, or flavorful pizzas, these 20 mouthwatering recipes will guide you through a culinary journey that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic combinations like grilled sausages with peppers and onions to creative twists like sun-dried tomato pasta and slow cooker lentil soup, we’ve got you covered.
Grilled Italian Chicken Sausage with Peppers and Onions
This flavorful recipe combines juicy grilled Italian chicken sausage with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian chicken sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season sausages with salt and pepper.
3. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While sausages are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
5. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Serve grilled sausages with roasted pepper and onion mixture spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Italian Chicken Sausage Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting pasta dish featuring juicy chicken sausage and a velvety cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. chicken sausage, sliced
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic to the same skillet; sauté until mushrooms release their liquid and start to caramelize (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet; toss to combine with creamy sauce.
6. Return sausage to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm bowl on a chilly day. Italian chicken sausage adds a boost of protein and spice, while kale provides a burst of nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Pizza
Spicy Italian Chicken Sausage Pizza Recipe
Elevate your pizza game with this spicy and savory combination of flavors! This recipe brings together the bold taste of Italian chicken sausage, the spiciness of red pepper flakes, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (10-12 inches)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Slice the Italian chicken sausage into thin rounds.
3. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the pre-baked crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the sliced sausage, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on the classic stuffed pepper recipe, this dish combines the savory taste of Italian chicken sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Brush the tops of the peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pan Italian Chicken Sausage and Veggie Bake
This recipe combines flavors of Italy with the ease of a one-pan meal, featuring chicken sausage, colorful vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 10 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with tomato mixture.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and White Bean Stew
Italian Chicken Sausage and White Bean Stew: A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the richness of chicken sausage with the comforting warmth of white beans.
Baked Italian Chicken Sausage with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian chicken sausages (sweet or hot, your choice)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken sausages on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender.
7. Drain the potatoes and mash with minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Spinach Frittata
This savory breakfast or brunch recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the richness of chicken sausage and spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy frittata. Perfect for a weekend morning or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and spinach; cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour eggs over the sausage mixture in the skillet; cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top; transfer skillet to oven.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are almost set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Italian Chicken Sausage Marinara
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of zucchini noodles, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into noodles.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and toss with the sausage and marinara mixture.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Italian Chicken Sausage and Mushroom Risotto Recipe
This hearty risotto dish combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm, creamy rice dish. With the addition of Italian chicken sausage and sautéed mushrooms, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic and cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed chicken broth to the rice, one cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the risotto should be creamy and tender. Stir in the cooked sausage, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Sheet Pan Italian Chicken Sausage and Potatoes
A flavorful and effortless dinner option that’s perfect for a busy evening. This recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken sausage, potatoes, and Italian seasonings on one sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian-style chicken sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (dried oregano, basil, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken sausages on one half of the sheet pan.
4. Arrange potatoes and garlic on the other half.
5. Drizzle olive oil over both sections, then sprinkle Italian seasoning.
6. Add cherry tomatoes to the potato side.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and potatoes are tender.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with the bold taste of chicken sausage. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the broccoli rabe and garlic to the skillet and cook until the greens are wilted.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sausage 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
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this recipe combines the savory goodness of chicken sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken sausage (Italian-style)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken sausage, onion, garlic, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of stuffed shells.
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 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese until smooth.
6. Combine cooked sausage mixture with cooked shells.
7. Transfer shells to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Skillet Italian Chicken Sausage with Cabbage and Apples
This flavorful skillet dish combines the savory taste of Italian chicken sausage with the crunch of cabbage and sweetness of apples, all cooked to perfection in one pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage and apple to the skillet; cook until the cabbage is tender and the apples are caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet; pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this satisfying, nutritious dish that combines tender chicken sausage, nutty quinoa, and sweet acorn squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 large acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the chicken-quinoa mixture.
7. Place stuffed squash on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of pasta, featuring juicy chicken sausage and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian-style chicken sausage
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. Slice chicken sausage into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes release their juices and sauce forms (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Serve with roasted chicken sausage and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Roasted Vegetable Salad
A flavorful and healthy salad that combines the richness of Italian chicken sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss together bell peppers, zucchinis, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Grill or cook Italian chicken sausage according to package instructions.
5. Combine roasted vegetables, cooked sausage, and mixed greens in a large bowl.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Chicken Sausage and Polenta Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of Italian chicken sausage with creamy polenta, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. With its satisfying texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian chicken sausage, sliced
– 2 cups cooked polenta
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the polenta according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. Combine the cooked polenta, marinara sauce, and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the cooked chicken sausage to the polenta mixture and stir until coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these mouthwatering Italian chicken sausage recipes! From classic pasta dishes to hearty soups and savory casseroles, there’s something for every occasion. Try grilling sausage with peppers and onions, or adding it to a creamy pasta sauce. You can also use it to make a spicy pizza topping, or as the centerpiece of a stuffed bell pepper. With 20 delicious recipes in total, you’re sure to find inspiration for a flavorful Italian-inspired meal.
