Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 large orange bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; Pinch of black pepper; 12 oz (1 package) pre-cooked chicken sausage, sliced into ¾-inch rounds

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Some days, the thought of cooking an elaborate meal feels overwhelming. I’ve been there too—staring into my fridge, hoping a meal magically appears. That’s why I love this easy air fryer chicken sausage and veggies recipe. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights, lazy weekends, or even meal prep for the week.

Not only does this dish come together in under 15 minutes, but it’s also packed with protein, colorful vegetables, and simple seasoning that brings everything to life. It’s a one-basket meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor—ideal for beginner cooks looking for a foolproof recipe.

Why This Recipe is Special

1. Beginner-Friendly

No complicated techniques or specialty tools—just basic chopping and tossing ingredients in the air fryer.

2. Fast and Convenient

With just 10 minutes of cook time, you’ll have a wholesome meal that tastes like you spent much longer preparing it.

3. Healthy Yet Satisfying

Chicken sausage is a great source of lean protein, while bell peppers, zucchini, and onions provide fiber and essential nutrients. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and can be made Whole30-compliant with the right sausage.

4. Versatile and Customizable

Swap out the veggies, switch up the seasoning, or use your favorite sausage—it’s an adaptable recipe that suits different tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients and Preparation

To keep this recipe simple yet flavorful, we use a handful of fresh ingredients and a balanced seasoning blend.

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

Chicken Sausage – Pre-cooked chicken sausage works best as it gets crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Choose a nitrate-free, sugar-free variety for a healthier option.
Bell Peppers – They add natural sweetness and a slight crunch. Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange for vibrant color.

Zucchini – A mild, slightly sweet vegetable that absorbs seasonings well and cooks quickly.
Red Onion – Brings a mild sharpness that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. You can substitute with white or yellow onion.
Avocado Oil – Helps the seasonings stick while adding a light crispness. Olive oil is a great alternative.

Garlic and Onion Powder – Essential for a deep, savory base flavor.
Italian Seasoning – A mix of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the dish with a subtle Mediterranean flair.
Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all the flavors.

Alternative Ingredients

Swap zucchini for yellow squash, green beans, or mushrooms.
Try turkey sausage or kielbasa instead of chicken sausage.
Use paprika or chili flakes for extra heat.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze or lemon juice after cooking for added depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and chop the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Slice the chicken sausage into ¾-inch rounds to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Veggies and Sausage

In a large mixing bowl, toss the vegetables and sausage with avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Load the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spread the sausage and veggies evenly in the air fryer basket—avoid overcrowding to allow proper crisping.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The sausage should be slightly crispy on the edges, and the vegetables should be tender with a slight char.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a plate and serve as-is, or pair with your favorite sauce and side dish for a complete meal.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Cut ingredients evenly – This ensures everything cooks at the same rate and prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
Shake halfway through cooking – Tossing the ingredients at the 5-minute mark helps achieve an even crisp.
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup – If your air fryer allows it, lining the basket with parchment prevents sticking.

Don’t skip the oil – While you can reduce it, a little oil enhances the texture and prevents dryness.
Make it in the oven – If you don’t have an air fryer, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate the Dish with These Pairings

Drizzle with Sauce – Try pesto, romesco sauce, creamy garlic aioli, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh burst of flavor.

Serve Over a Grain – Enjoy over quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Pair with Potatoes – Serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, or a baked potato for added comfort.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Microwave option – Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

This easy sheet pan air fryer dinner is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or just need a go-to busy-night meal, this recipe has you covered.

Have you tried this lemon herb chicken sausage recipe? Let me know in the comments below! What veggies did you use? Did you add a unique twist? Your feedback makes this cooking journey even more fun. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies

Can I use raw chicken sausage instead of pre-cooked?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Raw sausage takes about 15-18 minutes at 390°F to cook through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What other vegetables can I use?

This recipe is versatile! You can swap bell peppers and zucchini for mushrooms, broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or carrots. Just be mindful of cooking times—harder veggies may need a few extra minutes.

How do I make this recipe without an air fryer?

You can bake everything in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. A stovetop option is also possible by sautéing everything in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Chop and season the veggies and sausage up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to cook, just toss them in the air fryer and follow the instructions.

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