For something so straightforward, The Sausage Project’s chicken sausage is incredibly versatile. Whether you cook it in an air fryer, a cast-iron pan, or with a magnifying glass (look, sometimes you have to improvise), you’re just five minutes away from a delicious, high-protein meal. Learning how to cook chicken sausage properly is incredibly easy, and unlocks a whole world of healthy sausage recipes. Below are five foolproof cooking methods to help you “rethink the link.”
1. Grill for Smoky Flavor and a Juicy Snap
One of the simplest ways to cook chicken sausage is on the grill, where the links’ natural smokiness shines and caramelization crisps the casing. Simply grill over medium heat, turning often to prevent char. Once they're ready, serve them whole with peppers or slaw for a healthier hot-dog vibe, or slice and toss into a salad for fresh, smoky punch.
Sample recipes: Bacon-Wrapped Melty Cheddar L.A. Dogs
2. Sauté for a Fast Weeknight Protein
Sautéing chicken sausages is a quick way to boost flavor and protein in your favorite dishes. Slice the sausage into coins, then sauté in a hot pan with a splash of oil. Toss the sliced sausages into scrambled eggs, omelets, breakfast burritos for a morning treat. For lunch or dinner, them into stir-fries, pasta, grain bowls, stews, and soups for a protein boost.
Sample recipes: Chicken Teriyaki Sausage Stir-Fry
3. Roast for an Easy One-Pan Dinner
Roasting chicken sausage alongside vegetables on a sheet pan is a hands-off path to a complete meal. The flavorful sausage juices baste the veggies while everything cooks, creating harmony in every bite. Try roasting your sausages with potatoes, bell peppers, and onions for a reliable, no-fuss dinner. Once you’ve got the method down (which, let’s be honest, you probably already do), swap in seasonal veggies to add variety to your meal planning.
Sample recipes: Sheet-Pan Veggies with Italian Herb Sausage
4. Air-Fry for Five-Minute Convenience
Air fryers quickly went from trendy gadget to trusted kitchen mainstay, and air-frying chicken sausage brings something extra to your quick weeknight meal. Our links fry up in under 5 minutes with no splatter and minimal cleanup. Toss in some quick-roast veggies, or use your crisped-up sausages to take your favorite comfort food to the stratosphere.
Sample recipes: Melty Cheddar Sausage Mac with Toasty Ritz Bits
5. Pan-Sear for Sandwiches and Wraps
Butterflying—slicing lengthwise but keeping the link intact—creates a flat surface that browns fast, and pan-searing your hinged sausages brings out tremendous flavor. Sear a split sausage in a hot pan, then use it as the base of a sandwich or wrap layered with avocado, greens, and aioli.
Sample recipes: Sausage and Peppers Sandwich with Spicy Mustard