How to Make Chicken Sausage in Air Fryer in 15 Minutes

Are you craving a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor? If you’ve never tried making chicken sausage in air fryer, you’re in for a treat! In just 15 minutes, you can prepare a juicy, crispy sausage dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches. The air fryer locks in the flavor while cutting down on cooking time, making it an absolute game-changer for any home cook.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this simple air fryer chicken sausage recipe will leave you with perfectly cooked sausages every time. Keep reading to learn how to make this savory dish, tips for success, and ways to customize it to your liking!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 2-4 people

This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick meal without sacrificing taste. The air fryer ensures that your chicken sausage comes out crisp on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. Plus, it’s healthier than traditional frying since you won’t need any excess oil. It’s an ideal dish for busy days when you need something fast, tasty, and nutritious.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes just 15 minutes.
• Healthier Option: Using chicken sausages lowers the fat content compared to pork sausages.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning or flavors based on your preferences.
• Crispy & Juicy: The air fryer gives you the best of both worlds – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Sausage in Air Fryer

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Sausage Links: Choose high-quality chicken sausage (pre-cooked or raw), and feel free to use your favorite flavor, like Italian or spicy.
• Olive Oil (Optional): A light spray of olive oil ensures a crispy, golden exterior. If you prefer a healthier option, you can skip this step.
• Seasonings: You can season your sausages with a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, and any other spices or herbs you like. If you’re using pre-seasoned sausages, you may not need to add extra seasoning.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

• Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken sausage you use is gluten-free.
• Spicy: Enhance the heat with chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Dairy-Free: Most chicken sausages are dairy-free, but always check the label.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based chicken sausage alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Sausage in Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Before you start cooking, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures your sausages cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausages

If you’re using raw chicken sausage, make small slashes on each sausage with a sharp knife to prevent them from bursting during cooking. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken sausage, you can skip this step.

Step 3: Add the Sausages to the Air Fryer Basket

Place the sausages in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each one for proper airflow. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow the sausages to cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Sausages

Air fry the chicken sausages for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. If you’re using pre-cooked sausages, the cooking time will be slightly shorter. Check for a golden-brown color and a crispy exterior.

Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken sausage is fully cooked.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Sausage in Air Fryer

• Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure there’s space between each sausage to allow the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the sausages halfway ensures they cook uniformly on both sides.
• Avoid Piercing the Sausages: Piercing sausages can cause them to lose moisture, so skip this step unless necessary.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking: Keep an eye on the sausages to avoid overcooking. This can make them dry and tough.
• Skipping Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking from the start.

Assembly & Presentation: Making It Instagram-Worthy

Once your chicken sausage in air fryer is done, it’s time to serve! Here’s how to make your dish look as good as it tastes:

• Serve with Veggies: Pair your sausages with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Use a Beautiful Platter: Arrange the sausages neatly on a platter with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Garnish with a Lemon Slice: A squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors.

For an extra touch, drizzle with a little olive oil or your favorite sauce. Your meal is now ready for a photo!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your air fryer chicken sausage:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooked sausages in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked sausages for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.

Recipe Variations & Customization

Here are a few ways to get creative with your chicken sausage in air fryer:

• Different Sausage Flavors: Try sweet Italian, spicy chorizo, or lemon and thyme chicken sausages for a flavor twist.
• Add a Sauce: Serve your sausages with mustard, hot sauce, or a balsamic glaze for added flavor.
• Vegetarian Options: For a vegetarian alternative, use plant-based sausages and cook them the same way.

Conclusion

Making chicken sausage in air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. In just 15 minutes, you can have a perfectly crispy and juicy chicken sausage dinner or brunch. Experiment with different flavors, pairings, and sauces to suit your taste preferences. Don’t forget to share your creations in the comments – we’d love to hear how it turned out!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken sausages in the air fryer?
Yes, you can. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. How can I make my sausages extra crispy?
Spray your sausages lightly with olive oil before cooking, and ensure they’re spaced evenly in the air fryer.

3. Can I make chicken sausage in air fryer without oil?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can skip the oil. The sausages will still cook beautifully in the air fryer.

4. Can I cook chicken sausage in air fryer with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook vegetables alongside the sausages. Just ensure they’re cut to a similar size to ensure even cooking.

5. How can I tell if the chicken sausage is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

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If you’re looking for more air fryer inspiration, check out our air fryer recipes for quick and healthy meal ideas! Share your air fryer chicken sausage experience with us on social media – we love seeing how you put your spin on our recipes!