If you’re craving something that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, you’re going to love this Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe. It’s a delightful one-pan wonder that brings together juicy chicken sausage, tender veggies, and a luscious creamy sauce that’s irresistible. This dish balances richness with freshness perfectly, making it an ideal weeknight supper for busy evenings when you want something hearty without too much fuss in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients you can find in any kitchen. Each element plays a special role, whether it’s adding savory depth, texture, or a pop of color to the final dish.
- Chicken sausage (1 lb, sliced): The star protein, packed with flavor and quick to cook.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds natural sweetness and a tender bite once sautéed.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Elevates the dish with its aromatic punch.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Brings vibrant color and a subtle crunch.
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Adds an earthy depth and meaty texture.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that dreamy, silky sauce that defines this recipe.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Keeps the sauce light yet flavorful and helps blend everything together.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, savory finish to the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing, adding richness and helping flavors meld.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses an herbal warmth that complements chicken perfectly.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens the dish with its fresh, green touch.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and let it cook until beautifully browned on both sides, about five minutes. This step is crucial—it locks in that deep, savory flavor and creates a tasty foundation for the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté these until the veggies soften and release their delicious aromas, which usually takes about five to seven minutes. This colorful mix adds texture and richness that will elevate your Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe.
Step 3: Add Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream right into the skillet. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. These liquids begin to transform the skillet into a decadent, creamy sauce that wraps every ingredient with comforting warmth.
Step 4: Stir in Parmesan and Thyme
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme into the skillet. Stir and cook the mixture for three to five minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the sausage and vegetables. The cheese adds a nutty richness while the thyme infuses a subtle herbal note.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Finally, season the skillet with salt and pepper to your liking. This small adjustment brings all the flavors together perfectly, ensuring each bite is balanced and satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top is not just for looks. It adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh herbaceous flavor that cuts through the creaminess, keeping each bite vibrant and lively.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with a side like creamy mashed potatoes, warm crusty bread, or a light green salad makes your meal feel complete and well-rounded. These sides help soak up that luscious sauce, making every forkful even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your creamy chicken sausage skillet over cooked pasta or rice to turn it into a hearty, satisfying bowl. Alternatively, spoon the skillet over a bed of sautéed greens or roasted veggies for an extra boost of color and nutrition. Presentation can be playful and tailored to your mood!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe holds up well for up to three days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes nicely. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. You can also microwave individual servings, but add a splash of broth or cream to bring back that luscious sauce texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or pork sausages work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a slight variation in flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed and choose sausages you enjoy.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and swap Parmesan for a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast. The creamy texture will still be delightful.
Can I add more vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely. Feel free to toss in zucchini, spinach, or even chopped tomatoes to boost the veggie content and add more nutrients and colors to the dish.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild as is, but you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to give it a kick if you love spicy flavors.
What’s the best type of chicken sausage to use?
Look for fresh chicken sausage with herbs and spices you enjoy. Mild, Italian, or garlic-flavored varieties all work well and bring unique tastes to the skillet.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to whip up, and this Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe hits all those marks. It’s been a personal favorite for busy nights when I want comfort food that feels special but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. I genuinely hope you give it a try and make it your go-to recipe when you want dinner that feels like a warm, delicious hug.
Print
Creamy Chicken Sausage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy chicken sausage skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal featuring browned chicken sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb chicken sausage links, sliced
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, to develop flavor and texture.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Continue cooking the mixture until the sauce thickens slightly, approximately 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference, and stir well.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve the creamy chicken sausage skillet hot for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken sausage with turkey or pork sausage according to your preference.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
