Okay, let’s be honest – slow cookers are amazing! You toss in a few things in the morning, and by dinnertime, magic has happened. But have you discovered the secret to seriously upgrading those slow cooker meals? Chicken sausage! It’s like they were made for each other.
Why Chicken Sausage Rocks
- Healthy-ish: Let’s face it, those pork sausages can be a bit scary when you look at the nutrition label. Chicken sausage is a leaner way to get that sausage satisfaction.
- Flavor Bombs: Chicken sausage is packed with all sorts of tasty herbs and spices. Italian, spicy, apple-infused…you name it! Less work for you, more flavor for your taste buds.
- Mix-and-Match Master: There are so many kinds of chicken sausage you’ll never get bored. It’s your culinary playground!
Slow Cooker Tips: It Doesn’t Get Easier
- Brown or Not? Your Call: Browning sausage adds a bit of caramelized deliciousness, but honestly, your slow cooker will do allthe heavy lifting flavour-wise, so feel free to skip it if you’re short on time.
- Raw Chicken Sausage is A-OK:Unlike some finicky meats, raw chicken sausage is totally safe to chuck into the slow cooker without cooking it beforehand. This makes your meal prep even easier!
- Timing is Everything: Recipes are guidelines, but your slow cooker might be a little speedier or more relaxed than others. Keep an eye on your sausages towards the end, just to be safe.
Recipe Time! Let’s Get Cooking
Okay, I’m getting hungry just thinking about all the possibilities. Here are a few of my favorite flavor combos, plus ideas of other recipes!
- Italian Night Done Right
You can’t go wrong with this one. It’s like your favorite pasta joint simmered away all day:
Toss in Italian chicken sausage, a rainbow of bell peppers, some onion, a jar of good marinara, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper.
The Magic: Low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4. Serve it over pasta or rice with crusty bread for dipping…perfection!
- Creole Cravings? Sorted.
Let’s bring a little New Orleans heat to the table with this easy-peasy dish:
The Lineup: Andouille chicken sausage, the “holy trinity” of bell pepper, onion and celery, a can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, long-grain rice, and a good dose of Creole/Cajun seasoning. Hot sauce is for those who like it fiery!
The Simmer: Low for 4-5 hours, then stir in the rice for the last hour. Top with some green onion for a pop of color!
- Soup’s On! Fall Flavors Edition
This one is pure comfort food, perfect for when there’s a chill in the air:
What’s Inside: Sweet Italian chicken sausage, cubed butternut squash, carrots, kale, onion, garlic, chicken broth, a splash of apple cider, sage, thyme, salt and pepper.
Slow and Steady: Low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the kale during the last 30 minutes. A dollop of sour cream is totally optional but… highly recommended.
- Chili Made Easy-Peasy
Game day or movie night, this one’s a winner:
Grab and Go: Any chicken sausage you love, onions, kidney beans, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Let It Simmer: Low for 7-8 or high for 4-5 hours. Then load it up with your favorite toppings – cheese, sour cream, the works!
- Mediterranean Vibes
Light and bright, this is a nice change of pace:
The Ingredients: Lemon-herb chicken sausage, zucchini, grape tomatoes, peppers, onion, garlic, orzo, chicken broth, dried oregano, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
The Method: Low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours. Add the orzo for the last 30 minutes. Stir in the feta and basil at the end.
The Bottom Line: Chicken Sausage Makes Life Easier
Seriously, chicken sausage, tomato sauce and slow cookers are a busy person’s dream team. Flavorful, healthy-ish, and ridiculously easy to work with – what’s not to love? So, next time you’re looking to add some excitement to your weekly dinner rotation, remember this tasty little secret.
FAQs
- Okay, but can I REALLY use any kind of chicken sausage?
Yep! Go wild. Love those spicy flavors? Grab some andouille. Is Italian sausage more your thing? That works, too! Just think about the vibe you’re going for with your meal.
- The casing thing confuses me. To peel or not to peel?
Honestly, it’s your call. The casing won’t hurt you, but if you want the sausage to kind of melt into the sauce more, take it off. No judgment either way!
- Can I freeze this stuff?
I like to be prepared. You’re my kind of person! Most slow cooker dishes with chicken sausage freeze like a champ. Double a recipe and thank yourself later on a hectic weeknight.
- What do I serve with all this deliciousness?
That depends on the dish! Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes…a nice crusty loaf of bread to soak up the sauce…even a simple salad to keep things light. You can’t go wrong.
