We absolutely love exploring simple yet flavorful recipes, and Trader Joe’s chicken sausages have become a go-to favorite in our kitchen. These pre-cooked gems hail from the innovative aisles of Trader Joe’s offering a healthier twist on traditional sausages with options packed with herbs and spices that make every bite exciting.
They’re perfect for quick meals that don’t skimp on taste so we’ll guide you through an easy recipe that highlights their versatility. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or whipping up a speedy dinner we’ve got you covered with this crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
In our experience, Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages form the heart of this versatile recipe, offering a healthier alternative packed with herbs and spices for maximum flavor. We always stock up on these pre-cooked gems to whip up quick, delicious meals. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’ll be used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- 4 Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages: Fully pre-cooked; slice into ½-inch rounds for even browning and quick heating.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use extra-virgin for a richer, fruitier taste that enhances the sausages’ natural flavors.
- 1 medium onion: Yellow variety preferred; dice finely to caramelize quickly and add a sweet, aromatic base.
- 1 bell pepper: Choose red for sweetness; slice into thin strips to complement the sausages’ texture.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced fresh for a pungent, bold kick that infuses the dish with depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme; mix in for an herby lift without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Kosher type for better control; season to taste to balance the sausages’ inherent spices.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a sharp, warming note that ties everything together.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved for a juicy burst; add towards the end to keep their fresh, vibrant sweetness intact.
- Fresh parsley: Chop 2 tablespoons for garnish; it provides a bright, earthy finish to elevate the overall presentation.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our flavorful Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage recipe with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential kitchen tools. These items ensure efficient cooking and help achieve the perfect sear and blend of herbs and spices, enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures.
Essential Tools List
We recommend gathering the following tools before starting:
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A 12-inch non-stick or cast-iron skillet is ideal for browning the sausages and vegetables evenly. This allows for quick heat distribution, preventing sticking and ensuring a golden crust.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Use a high-quality 8-inch knife for chopping onions, bell peppers, and garlic with minimal effort, making prep work fast and safe.
- Cutting Board: Opt for a sturdy wooden or plastic board at least 12×18 inches to provide a stable surface for all your chopping, keeping our kitchen organized and mess-free.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant silicone spatula works best for stirring and flipping ingredients, helping to maintain the integrity of the cherry tomatoes without breaking them.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate 1-tablespoon and 1-teaspoon measures are crucial for seasoning with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper, guaranteeing the balanced taste we love in this recipe.
- Tongs: These are perfect for handling the pre-cooked sausages, allowing us to turn them easily for even cooking without piercing the casing.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from prepping ingredients to cooking, making our Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage recipe a seamless experience.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools gathered, let’s walk through the steps to create a vibrant, flavorful Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage dish that highlights its herbs and spices. We’ll ensure each step is straightforward for a delicious, healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our fresh ingredients to build layers of flavor in this dish. Begin by washing and chopping the vegetables as follows:
- Onion and Bell Pepper: Dice 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper into even ½-inch pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and release their sweet, caramelized notes.
- Garlic: Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely so its pungent aroma infuses the dish without overwhelming other flavors.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes to allow their juicy burst to mingle with the sausages’ savory profile.
- Fresh Parsley: Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley coarsely for a bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
This prep sets the stage for quick assembly, making our cooking process seamless and efficient.
Cooking the Sausage
With our ingredients prepped, let’s cook the Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages to golden perfection, allowing their infused herbs and spices to shine through in every bite. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and follow these steps for even cooking:
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl it to coat the bottom, then add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release a sweet aroma that fills the kitchen.
- Stir in the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the mixture becomes fragrant and the garlic turns golden, enhancing the sausages’ flavor profile.
- Place 4 Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages into the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning with tongs for an even sear that locks in their juicy texture and creates a crispy exterior.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a light, tangy sauce that complements the sausages’ savory notes.
This method ensures the dish is packed with bold flavors and tender textures, ready to impress at any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let’s elevate our Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage dish with simple yet creative presentations that make it a standout. Plate the sausages and vegetables on a warm serving dish, then garnish with the chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant green touch that adds visual appeal and a fresh, zesty flavor.
- For a quick dinner, serve over quinoa or brown rice to soak up the flavorful juices, creating a hearty, balanced meal.
- Pair with a side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to contrast the sausages’ richness, making it ideal for weeknights.
- For gatherings, slice the sausages into rounds and skewer with the vegetables for easy, shareable appetizers that highlight their versatility.
Experiment with these options to tailor the dish to your tastes, ensuring every serving is as enjoyable as it is nutritious.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To maximize the convenience of our Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausage recipe, we can prepare key elements in advance, allowing for quick assembly on busy days while preserving the bold flavors and tender textures of the herbs-infused sausages. This approach helps us streamline cooking without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Preparing Ingredients Ahead
We recommend prepping the fresh components first to save time:
- Chop vegetables: Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness and vibrant colors.
- Measure seasonings: Combine the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or sealed bag. This ensures we can quickly add layers of flavor without delay.
- Slice sausages: Cut the Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages into your preferred pieces ahead of time. Keep them refrigerated in a covered dish to prevent drying out.
Partial Cooking and Storage
For even greater efficiency, we can partially cook the dish and store it for later:
- Sauté vegetables partially: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3-5 minutes until they soften slightly. Let the mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Add seasonings and tomatoes: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cherry tomatoes. This step builds the foundational flavors, making reassembly effortless.
- Cook sausages briefly: Brown the Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages in the same skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to lock in their juicy texture, then cool and store separately to avoid sogginess.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage is key to retaining the dish’s fresh, herbaceous aroma and hearty appeal. Below is a quick reference for storage times and methods:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Use airtight containers to preserve the sausages’ spices and prevent moisture loss. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to restore that golden crispness. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Freeze in portion-sized bags for easy thawing. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat to maintain the plump texture and robust flavors of the Trader Joe’s Chicken Sausages. |
Always ensure the internal temperature of reheated sausages reaches 165°F for safety, allowing us to enjoy a flavorful, worry-free meal every time.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this Trader Joe’s chicken sausage recipe with us. It’s a simple way to bring bold flavors to your table without the fuss.
Our go-to choice for busy days, it proves that healthy eating can be delicious and adaptable.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in the Trader Joe’s chicken sausages recipe?
The main ingredient is Trader Joe’s pre-cooked chicken sausages, which add flavor and protein. Other key items include olive oil, onion, bell pepper, garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley. This combination creates a simple, healthy dish with herbs and spices for bold taste.
Why should I choose Trader Joe’s chicken sausages for this recipe?
Trader Joe’s chicken sausages are a healthier alternative to traditional options, packed with herbs and spices for natural flavor. They’re pre-cooked, versatile, and perfect for quick meals or gatherings, enhancing dishes without extra effort while keeping things simple and delicious.
What tools do I need to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet for cooking, a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for prep, a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring, measuring spoons and cups for accuracy, and tongs for handling sausages. These basics ensure efficient preparation with minimal hassle.
How do I make the Trader Joe’s chicken sausages recipe?
Start by chopping vegetables like onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté them in olive oil with seasonings, then add the sausages and cook until golden. Mix in cherry tomatoes and parsley for extra flavor. The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes for a tasty, flavorful meal.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, chop vegetables, measure seasonings, and slice sausages in advance for quick assembly. You can partially cook the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it ideal for busy days while keeping flavors fresh.
How should I store and reheat the cooked dish?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot, ensuring sausages reach 165°F internally for safety. This maintains taste and texture easily.
What are some serving suggestions for this recipe?
Serve the sausages and veggies over quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal, or as appetizers for gatherings. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite sides to make it nutritious and customizable.