Are you craving a flavorful yet simple weeknight dinner? Look no further! This Garlic Chicken Sausage recipe is your answer. It’s a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated, and this recipe proves just that. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you'll master this quick dinner idea in no time. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. chicken sausage (Italian style is recommended, but any flavor will work!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by mincing the garlic and chopping the onion. This simple step gets you ready for the cooking process. Having everything prepped makes the whole process much smoother.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Don't rush this step – allowing the onions and garlic to soften brings out their flavors.
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Brown the Sausage: Add the chicken sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned on all sides. This ensures the sausage cooks evenly and develops a lovely crust.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish is wonderful on its own, or you can serve it with your favorite side dishes like pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Best Garlic Chicken Sausage:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped. Fresh herbs offer a more vibrant flavor.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
Variations:
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Sausage: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the tomatoes.
- White Wine Chicken Sausage: Substitute 1/2 cup of dry white wine for the chicken broth.
- Spicy Sausage: Use a spicy chicken sausage for a fiery twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s a perfect example of how delicious food can also be quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying garlic chicken sausage dish!