Easy Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage Recipe (Healthy & Delicious)
Imagine biting into perfectly golden, juicy air fryer chicken apple sausage that’s crispy on the outside and bursting with sweet apple flavors inside. This incredible dish transforms your weeknight dinner routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Did you know that chicken apple sausage was first created by European butchers who wanted to combine the richness of poultry with the natural sweetness of apples? This delightful combination has become a family favorite across America.
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What makes this recipe truly special is its incredible simplicity and lightning-fast cooking time. In just 12 minutes, you’ll have restaurant-quality sausages that are perfectly cooked, healthier than traditional methods, and absolutely delicious. The air fryer creates that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Similar to our popular air fryer bacon recipe that readers absolutely love, this dish proves that air frying is the secret to achieving perfect results every time. Get ready to fall in love with the easiest, most flavorful way to cook chicken apple sausage!
What is Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage?
Ever wondered why this delicious creation gets such a fancy name? Well, it’s simply chicken sausage infused with sweet apple pieces that gets the air fryer treatment! But don’t let the simple name fool you – this dish packs a serious flavor punch that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
The beauty lies in its straightforward approach: premium chicken sausage meets hot circulating air for pure magic. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this recipe definitely delivers on that promise! Ready to become the sausage master of your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage
Perfectly Crispy Every Time
The air fryer works its magic by circulating hot air around each sausage, creating an incredibly crispy exterior that rivals any restaurant. No more soggy or unevenly cooked sausages – just golden perfection in every bite.
Budget-Friendly Home Cooking
Making air fryer chicken apple sausage at home saves you significant money compared to ordering similar dishes at restaurants. You control the quality of ingredients while spending a fraction of the cost, making it perfect for families on a budget.
Incredible Flavor Combination
The sweet apple pieces mixed with savory chicken create an irresistible taste sensation. Add some caramelized onions or bell peppers during cooking, and you’ve got a gourmet meal that rivals our popular air fryer vegetables recipe.
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals. Why not give it a try tonight and taste the difference for yourself?
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage
Quick Overview
This recipe delivers incredibly juicy, perfectly crispy chicken apple sausages with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Key Features:
- Simple one-step cooking process
- Crispy exterior, tender interior
- Sweet apple flavor throughout
- Healthier than pan-frying
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Serves: 4 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage
- 4-6 chicken apple sausages (about 1 lb)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 medium onion, sliced (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Note: Choose high-quality chicken apple sausages from your local grocery store for best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausages Remove sausages from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. If desired, lightly brush with olive oil for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Score the Sausages Make 3-4 diagonal cuts about 1/4 inch deep on each sausage. This prevents bursting and allows even cooking.
Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer Place sausages in air fryer basket in single layer, ensuring they don’t touch for optimal air circulation.
Step 5: Cook First Side Air fry for 6 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Step 6: Flip and Continue Turn sausages over using tongs and cook for additional 6 minutes.
Step 7: Check for Doneness Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for 1-2 more minutes.
Step 8: Rest and Serve Let sausages rest for 2 minutes before serving to retain juices.
What to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage With
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Air fryer Brussels sprouts
- Creamy mashed cauliflower
- Sautéed spinach with garlic
Bread Options:
- Warm dinner rolls
- Crusty sourdough bread
- Garlic bread
Beverages:
- Crisp white wine
- Apple cider
- Sparkling water with lemon
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Chicken Apple Sausage
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Space sausages properly for even air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary rather than cramming them together.
Score Before Cooking
Those diagonal cuts aren’t just for looks – they prevent the casings from bursting and ensure even heat distribution.
Check Internal Temperature
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Avoid Overcooking
Chicken sausages can dry out quickly, so stick to the recommended cooking time and check frequently.
Experiment with Seasonings
Try different spice blends like Italian herbs, paprika, or cajun seasoning for variety.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover cooked sausages in airtight container for up to 4 days in refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual sausages in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Methods:
- Air fryer: 350°F for 3-4 minutes
- Microwave: 30-60 seconds on medium power
- Oven: 350°F for 5-7 minutes
Pro Tip: Slice leftover sausages and add to pasta dishes, salads, or breakfast scrambles for quick meals.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 sausage) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140-160 |
| Protein | 12-14g |
| Fat | 8-10g |
| Carbs | 4-6g |
| Fiber | 0-1g |
| Sodium | 400-500mg |
Values may vary based on brand and size of sausages
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to poke holes in chicken apple sausages before air frying?
Making shallow diagonal cuts is better than poking holes. This prevents bursting while maintaining juiciness.
Can I cook frozen chicken apple sausages in the air fryer?
Yes! Add 3-4 extra minutes to cooking time and ensure they reach 165°F internal temperature.
Why are my sausages not crispy enough?
Try patting them dry before cooking and avoid overcrowding the basket. A light brush of oil can also help.
How do I know when chicken apple sausages are done?
Use a meat thermometer – internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be golden brown.
Can I add vegetables to cook with the sausages?
Absolutely! Add onions, peppers, or potatoes during the last 8 minutes of cooking time.
What’s the best brand of chicken apple sausage for air frying?
Look for brands with natural casings like Applegate, Al Fresco, or Aidells for best results.
Bonus Recipe Variations
Breakfast Style: Serve with scrambled eggs and hash browns for a complete breakfast.
Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce and pasta.
Apple Onion Medley: Cook sliced apples and onions alongside sausages for a complete one-pan meal.
Meal Prep Version: Slice cooked sausages and portion with roasted vegetables for easy weekday lunches.
This air fryer chicken apple sausage recipe transforms a simple ingredient into something truly special. The combination of convenience, flavor, and health benefits makes it perfect for busy families who don’t want to compromise on taste. Give it a try tonight and discover why air frying has revolutionized the way we cook!
