Cooking chicken sausage is a breeze, and there are multiple ways to do it. Whether you prefer the oven, stove, grill, air fryer, or microwave, we have you covered. In this article, we’ll walk you through the different cooking methods and provide helpful tips to ensure your chicken sausage turns out perfectly every time.
Cooking Chicken Sausage in the Oven
To cook chicken sausage in the oven, preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200C). For precooked chicken sausage, bake for 15 minutes on a light cookie sheet placed on a rack positioned ⅓ down from the top. If you’re cooking raw chicken sausage, allow for a longer bake time to reach the safe internal temperature of 165F (74C).
Cooking Chicken Sausage in the Air Fryer
If you’re a fan of the air fryer, you’ll love how quick and delicious it makes chicken sausage. Simply set your air fryer to 400F (200C) and cook the sausages for 6-8 minutes. No need to preheat or flip them. The air fryer provides fast cooking and beautifully browns the sausages, making it an excellent choice.
Cooking Chicken Sausage on the Stove
For those who prefer stovetop cooking, simmering and browning is the way to go. Start by adding ½-inch (1.27 cm) of water and the chicken sausage links to a cast iron skillet. Cover the pan and let the sausages simmer for 8-10 minutes over medium-low heat. Then, remove the lid, drain the water, and brown the sausages for a few minutes over medium-low heat, turning them occasionally.
Cooking Chicken Sausage in the Microwave
While using the microwave is the fastest way to cook chicken sausage, it won’t give you the browning you get from other methods. To microwave chicken sausage, cook it on high for 3 minutes, then let it stand for 1-2 minutes before eating. However, if you prefer a nicely browned sausage, we recommend using the air fryer or oven instead.
Cooking Chicken Sausage on the Grill
Grilling chicken sausage adds a delicious smoky flavor. Grease your grill and place the sausages over medium-low heat. Cook them for approximately 8-10 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even browning on all sides. Grilled chicken sausage is perfect for summer barbecues or anytime you want that classic grilled taste.
Cooking Raw Chicken Sausage on the Stove
To cook raw chicken sausage on the stovetop, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausages for 5-6 minutes per side until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165F (74C). Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of the sausages.
Cooking Raw Chicken Sausage in the Oven
For baking raw chicken sausage, preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Place the sausages on a rimmed metal baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them after 15 minutes for even browning. Consider using a lower oven rack position to achieve the best results.
How to Tell if Chicken Sausage is Cooked
It’s essential to ensure that chicken sausage is fully cooked for safe consumption. The best way to determine doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74C) according to USDA guidelines. Remember, color is not a reliable indicator of doneness, so always rely on the temperature reading.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cooking chicken sausage:
- Can you cook chicken sausages from frozen? Yes, you can. However, it will take longer than cooking fresh sausages. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) and bake the frozen sausages for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- Are chicken sausages ready to eat? Chicken sausages are sold either uncooked or ready to eat. If they are not fully cooked, they need to be cooked thoroughly by grilling, baking, or pan-frying before consuming.
- Can you cook chicken sausages in a slow cooker? While it’s possible, it is not recommended to cook frozen chicken sausage in a slow cooker. The low temperature of a slow cooker may not thaw the sausages quickly enough to ensure food safety.
- Is Johnsonville chicken sausage precooked? Yes, most varieties of Johnsonville chicken sausage are pre-cooked. Check the packaging to verify if the sausage is fully cooked or raw.
- Are Costco chicken sausages precooked? Yes, the majority of Costco chicken sausages are pre-cooked. However, always check the packaging for specific product information.
What to Cook Chicken Sausage With
Pre-cooked sausages are versatile and pair well with various dishes. Consider adding them to an Italian feast with pasta dishes, air fryer spaghetti Bolognese, or air fryer garlic bread. For a low-carb option, combine them with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and spinach. The possibilities are endless!
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So, let’s get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of chicken sausage prepared in various ways!
