Discover the delightful fusion of savory and sweet with our chicken apple sausage recipes with rice. This dish combines the juicy, flavorful chicken apple sausage with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, creating a comforting and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, this recipe offers a great balance of protein, carbs, and subtle sweetness from the apples in the sausage. The blend of spices, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs will fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that’s hard to resist.
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to make, but it’s also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. You can add your favorite veggies or swap rice varieties to make it your own.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce the unique flavor of chicken apple sausage to your family or guests. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the apple in the sausage complements the savory chicken, while the rice acts as a neutral base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
It’s a one-pan wonder that saves you time on cleanup and is packed with nutrients.
Additionally, it’s very adaptable. Whether you prefer brown rice for a healthier option or jasmine rice for a fragrant touch, this recipe works beautifully.
It’s also great for meal prep because it reheats well without losing its taste or texture.
Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mild sweetness and the hearty, satisfying nature of this meal.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more lean protein and wholesome ingredients into your diet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken apple sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 apple, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Fuji work great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Medium bowl (for prepping ingredients)
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken apple sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables and apple: Add the diced red bell pepper and apple to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the apple begins to caramelize.
- Toast the rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir well to coat it with oil and vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly for a nuttier flavor.
- Season and add liquids: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Return the browned sausage slices to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Rest and fluff: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, use a fork to fluff the rice gently.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
Try substituting the chicken apple sausage with turkey apple sausage or even a pork sausage for a different flavor profile.
For a veggie boost, toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 25 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to add more color and nutrients to your plate. A crisp apple slaw or roasted Brussels sprouts would also complement the sweetness of the sausage perfectly.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside warm crusty bread or garlic mashed potatoes. Don’t forget a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light white wine to balance the flavors.
Conclusion
The chicken apple sausage and rice recipe is a fantastic way to bring a touch of sweetness and savory depth to your dinner table. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Perfect for busy evenings or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
By using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or rice varieties to customize it to your liking.
Enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors and the comforting warmth this dish brings to your home cooking.
Looking for more tasty recipes? Check out our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, One-Pot Cajun Jambalaya, and Hearty Vegetable Stir Fry for more delicious meal ideas!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Apple Sausage with Rice
Description: A savory and sweet chicken apple sausage dish served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken apple sausage, sliced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced chicken apple sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add rice, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and stir to coat rice.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Return sausage to skillet, stir to combine, and cook uncovered for 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 40 g
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