Are you craving a delicious and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Apple Chicken Sausage Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, combining the savory sweetness of chicken sausage with the crisp tartness of apples, all in one easy pan. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish without the fuss. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for families and busy individuals alike, proving that healthy meals don’t have to be boring! Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb apple chicken sausage, sliced (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji), cored and diced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Don't rush this step; tender onions are key to a flavorful dish!
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Add the Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Incorporate Apples and Seasonings: Stir in the diced apples, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Choosing your Sausage: Experiment with different types of apple chicken sausage for varied flavor profiles. Some brands offer spicier varieties for those who prefer a bit of a kick!
- Apple Selection: The type of apple you choose impacts the sweetness and tartness of the dish. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are excellent choices for their balance of sweetness and crispness.
- Don't Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the apples, as they can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm apples.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or more maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Variations:
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add more flavor by incorporating other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbs Galore: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Creamy Option: For a richer dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Apple Chicken Sausage Skillet is a quick, easy, and healthy meal option that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!