There’s something incredibly satisfying about the sound of vegetables sizzling away, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. A busy weeknight often leaves me searching for meals that are not only quick but also bursting with flavor. That’s when I stumbled upon my newest favorite: the 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies.
Imagine juicy chicken sausage golden-brown and crisp, cradled by a colorful medley of vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, all laced with aromatic Italian herbs. This dish takes minimal effort and just a fraction of your time—perfect for those evenings when I want to impress my family or simply treat myself.
Best of all, it’s one of those delightful recipes that feels wholesome without the long clean-up afterward. Whether you’re looking to switch up your weeknight routine or just need a burst of freshness in your meal plan, this dish is just the ticket. Let’s fire up the air fryer and dive into this vibrant, delicious adventure!
Why will you love this 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a true time-saver that delivers tasty results in just 10 minutes!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of juicy chicken sausage and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavors.
Healthy Options: Skip the fast food and indulge in wholesome ingredients that nourish your body.
Minimal Cleanup: One bowl and one air fryer make for an easy clean-up, so you can enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite grains like cauliflower or brown rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this recipe that effortlessly fits into your weeknight dinner rotation!
10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies Ingredients
To create this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Vegetables
- Large red bell pepper – cut into 1-inch pieces to add sweetness and crunch.
- Large orange bell pepper – cut into 1-inch pieces for vibrant color and flavor.
- Red onion – peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces, providing depth and aroma.
- Medium zucchini – cut into 1-inch pieces, ensuring a tender texture when roasted.
For the Seasoning
- Avocado oil – 1 tablespoon to keep the veggies crisp during air frying.
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon for a robust flavor enhancement.
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon to complement the fresh onion flavor.
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon to infuse that classic Italian taste throughout.
- Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon to properly season the entire dish.
- Black pepper – a pinch to add just the right amount of kick.
For the Protein
- Chicken sausage (12 oz) – choose a robust Italian flavor for added zest and heartiness.
Crafting this 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies recipe is all about simple, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a meal that feels special—perfectly suited for your busy evenings!
How to Make 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
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Chop the Veggies: Begin by chopping the red and orange bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into 1-inch pieces. Add them to a large bowl, drizzling with avocado oil and tossing to coat evenly.
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Mix the Spices: In a separate bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this delightful spice blend over the veggies, tossing again to ensure they’re coated beautifully.
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Slice the Sausage: Take your chicken sausage and slice it into ¾ inch rounds. Add the sausage slices to the bowl with the seasoned veggies, tossing everything together for flavor mingling.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. While it’s heating, spray the air fryer basket with a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Air Fry the Mixture: Once preheated, add the veggie and sausage mixture to the air fryer basket in an even layer. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for a golden-brown, crispy finish.
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Serve It Up: After cooking, carefully remove the mixture from the air fryer. You can serve it as is, or pair it with cooked cauliflower rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the veggies and mix them with the spices up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the chicken sausage can be sliced a day ahead and kept separately to maintain its juiciness. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine the prepped veggies and sausage in the air fryer and follow the final cooking steps as outlined. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors with minimal effort, making weeknight meals a breeze!
What to Serve with 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant dish with sides that enhance its flavors and textures.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky smoothness of mashed potatoes balances the hearty sausage, creating a comforting, homestyle meal. They absorb the wonderful juices from the veggies, making every bite a delight.
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Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad brings a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the table. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a burst of freshness that brightens your plate.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a fantastic complement, perfect for soaking up any remaining juices. This classic pairing can turn your simple dinner into a satisfying feast.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall dish. The caramelization during roasting brings out their sweetness, making them a must-try alongside.
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Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve it over fluffy cauliflower rice. The rice absorbs the flavors beautifully and adds another layer of texture without overpowering the vibrant chicken sausage and veggies.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink option, sparkling water with a splash of lime adds brightness and a touch of sophistication, perfectly complementing the meal without overwhelming its flavors.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this creamy and rich mousse serves as a delightful finish. Its lightness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements, making a satisfying end to your dinner.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a memorable meal that your family will adore!
10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own—let your imagination run wild!
- Dairy-Free: Use a creamy cashew or almond-based dressing as a drizzle for a nutty twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a delicious heat boost.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme added at the end brighten up the dish with their aromatic flavors.
- Veggie Swap: Substitute seasonal veggies like asparagus or sweet potatoes for a varied flavor profile and texture.
- Protein Change: Try turkey or vegan sausage as a substitute for a different taste while keeping it hearty.
- Cajun Flair: Add Cajun seasoning instead of Italian for a vibrant, spicy Southern-inspired version.
- Texture Twist: Toss in some chickpeas or roasted nuts for a delightful crunch and additional protein.
- Citrus Zing: A splash of lemon or lime juice after cooking adds a zesty finish that livens up the entire dish.
Let these variations inspire you—each bite can offer something new and exciting!
How to Store and Freeze 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Fridge: Store leftover chicken sausage and veggies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to prevent frost.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or pop it back into the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until heated through. Enjoy your stored 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies just like fresh!
Expert Tips for 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Even Chop Sizes: Ensure all veggies are cut into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking; this lets every bite be perfectly tender.
Season Generously: Don’t shy away from the seasoning! A well-seasoned dish elevates the flavors of your chicken sausage and veggies.
Preheat for Crispiness: Preheating the air fryer is key to achieving that desirable crispy texture on your sausage and veggies.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. This promotes even cooking and maximizes crispiness for your chicken sausage and veggies.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix in other seasonal vegetables to highlight your personal taste. Just maintain similar cooking times for best results.
10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies Recipe FAQs
What type of bell peppers are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using large red and orange bell peppers will give your dish a beautiful color and sweet flavor. If you want a little kick, you might also consider adding a yellow or even green bell pepper, but stick with vibrant colors for the best taste!
How should I store leftover chicken sausage and veggies?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors fresh and prevents the veggies from becoming soggy. Reheat properly to enjoy the dish just as you did fresh out of the air fryer!
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies, let the mixture cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. You can safely freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, or you can reheater it directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
What if my veggies seem undercooked?
Don’t worry! If you find that your veggies aren’t cooked to your liking, you can return them to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Cooking times can vary based on the air fryer and the size of the veggie pieces, so it’s always good to check for tenderness before serving!
Are there any allergy considerations for this dish?
Very much so! Check labels if you’re serving someone with food allergies. Chicken sausage often contains additional ingredients, so opt for brands without allergens like dairy or gluten if needed. If you’re cooking for pets, it’s best to keep this flavorful dish away from them due to high seasoning levels.
Can I adjust the seasoning for my dietary needs?
Absolutely! If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using low-sodium seasoning blends or fresh herbs instead. Feel free to skip the salt altogether and rely on the natural flavors from the veggies and sausage. This recipe is versatile, so adapt it to fit your health goals!
Quick 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Chop the red and orange bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into 1-inch pieces. Add them to a large bowl, drizzling with avocado oil and tossing to coat evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this delightful spice blend over the veggies, tossing again to ensure they're coated beautifully.
- Slice the chicken sausage into ¾ inch rounds. Add the sausage slices to the bowl with the seasoned veggies, tossing everything together for flavor mingling.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Spray the air fryer basket with a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add the veggie and sausage mixture to the air fryer basket in an even layer. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Carefully remove the mixture from the air fryer and serve it as is, or pair it with cooked cauliflower rice or brown rice.