Chicken sausage is a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. It’s low in fat, high in protein, and comes in a variety of flavors, making it a versatile ingredient in many dishes. However, cooking chicken sausage can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to it. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook chicken sausage perfectly every time.

Introduction

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s define what chicken sausage is. Chicken sausage is a type of sausage made from ground chicken meat and various spices. It’s often sold in links, similar to pork sausage, and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as breakfast sandwiches, pasta dishes, and casseroles.

Now that we know what chicken sausage is let’s talk about why you should consider adding it to your diet. Chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage because it’s lower in fat and calories. It’s also an excellent source of protein, making it a great option for those who are trying to build muscle or maintain a healthy weight.

Preparing the Chicken Sausage

Before you start cooking your chicken sausage, you need to prepare it properly. Here are some tips to help you prepare your chicken sausage for cooking:

1. Choosing the right chicken sausage

When choosing chicken sausage, look for packages that are labeled “fully cooked” or “pre-cooked.” These sausages are already cooked and only need to be heated through. If you choose raw chicken sausage, you’ll need to cook it thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.

2. Thawing chicken sausage

If you’re using frozen chicken sausage, you’ll need to thaw it before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken sausage is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.

3. Removing the casing

Most chicken sausages come in a casing that needs to be removed before cooking. To remove the casing, use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut along the length of the sausage. Peel back the casing and discard it.

Cooking Methods for Chicken Sausage

Now that we’ve prepared the chicken sausage let’s talk about the different cooking methods you can use. Chicken sausage can be grilled, baked, or sautéed, depending on your preference.

1. Grilling

Grilling is a popular method for cooking chicken sausage, especially during the summer months. Grilling gives chicken sausage a smoky flavor and a crispy texture. Here’s how to grill chicken sausage:

Preparing the grill

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Clean the grill grates with a wire brush to remove any debris.
3. Brush the grates with oil to prevent the chicken sausage from sticking.
4. Close the lid and let the grill heat up for 5-10 minutes.

Grilling chicken sausage

1. Place the chicken sausage on the grill, making sure there’s enough space between each link.
2. Cook the chicken sausage for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully heated through.
3. Use tongs to flip the chicken sausage over, being careful not to pierce the casing.
4. Once the chicken sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. Baking

Baking is a convenient method for cooking chicken sausage, especially if you’re cooking for a large crowd. Baking chicken sausage is also a healthier option because it doesn’t require any added oil. Here’s how to bake chicken sausage:

Preheating the oven

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Baking chicken sausage

1. Place the chicken sausage on the baking sheet, making sure there’s enough space between each link.
2. Bake the chicken sausage for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s fully heated through.
3. Use tongs to flip the chicken sausage over halfway through the cooking time.
4. Once the chicken sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.