If you are on the lookout for a dish that is comforting, flavorful, and comes together quickly, the Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe is exactly what your weeknight dinners need. This one-pan wonder combines savory chicken sausage with fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce that makes every bite a delight. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want a satisfying meal without a long list of ingredients or complicated steps. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will find a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a valuable role, whether it adds depth of flavor, vibrant color, or creamy texture. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you’re minutes away from a mouthwatering meal.
- Olive oil: Perfect for browning the sausage and softening veggies, adding a subtle fruity note.
- Chicken sausage (1 lb, sliced): The star protein, bringing savory, juicy goodness and seasoning to the dish.
- Small onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and a tender bite as it cooks down.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses warmth and a hint of pungency that brightens every mouthful.
- Red bell pepper (sliced): Offers vibrant color and a satisfying crunch with a mildly sweet flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Bursting with juiciness, they balance the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Adds the perfect herbal aroma of basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For those who like a subtle kick of heat.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Provides a savory base to develop the sauce’s depth and moisture.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): The luscious foundation of the creamy texture you’ll fall in love with.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Melts into the sauce for richness and a nutty, salty punch.
- Baby spinach (2 cups): Adds a fresh, slightly earthy contrast while wilting perfectly into the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): A bright, herbal garnish to finish the dish with a pop of color.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until it develops a gorgeous golden-brown crust, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds rich flavor and texture, so take your time here. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns soft and fragrant. Then stir in the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. Let these cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes so the vegetables soften and their flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Season and Simmer the Sauce
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for an herby touch and add red pepper flakes now if you want a little spice. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the sauce to begin thickening.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Spinach
Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy. Then add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, just a minute or two. Taste your creation and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed for the perfect balance.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley over the top brightens the dish with a subtle peppery flavor and gorgeous color contrast. It’s a simple touch that elevates the look and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy skillet pairs wonderfully with light, fluffy pasta to soak up the sauce or a bed of steamed rice for a comforting, hearty meal. If you prefer keeping it low-carb, enjoy it on its own or alongside roasted veggies for extra texture and nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe over creamy mashed potatoes or polenta for a cozy, indulgent experience. Alternatively, stuff the mixture inside halved baked potatoes or use it as a filling for warm pita bread or wraps for a casual, handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or a quick dinner option.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to stash meals ahead of time. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce if it thickens too much. Microwaving works too but do so in short bursts to keep the texture smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken sausage adds a lean and mild flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage to fit your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. This keeps the creamy texture while accommodating dairy restrictions.
How spicy is the Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe?
The spice level is mild by default, but you can easily adjust it by adding or omitting red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can chop and measure the ingredients beforehand, and even cook the sausage and veggies, then assemble and heat when ready to serve. It’s great for busy weeknight meal prep.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
To round out the meal, pair the skillet with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes. These accompaniments complement the rich, creamy flavors well.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe is such a gratifying and effortless dish to whip up, packed full of flavors and textures that will warm you from the inside out. It’s an inviting meal that feels both cozy and special, perfect for sharing with family or friends. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
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Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring browned chicken sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce made with Parmesan cheese and spinach. Perfect for a quick and satisfying low-carb dinner, it combines simple ingredients with bold Italian-inspired seasonings for a delicious and hearty dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using over the vegetables. Return the browned sausage to the skillet, then pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Wilt Spinach and Season: Add baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Taste the dish and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken sausage skillet warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or can be enjoyed on its own as a low-carb option.
Notes
- Use any variety of fully cooked chicken sausage, such as apple, garlic herb, or spicy, based on your preference.
- For a lighter dish, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- This dish can be made gluten-free if you ensure the chicken sausage used is gluten-free.
- Try adding other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
