Are you craving a delicious, yet easy dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Chicken Italian Sausage recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Forget takeout – homemade cooking has never been easier or tastier! This recipe offers a delightful blend of savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb sweet Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken and Sausage
Add the cubed chicken breast and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and the sausage is cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor: Use Italian seasoning instead of individual herbs.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or polenta. A side of crusty bread is also a perfect complement.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Variations:
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken and sausage with your favorite vegetarian sausage.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Chicken Italian Sausage recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple, everyday ingredients. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy!