You know those nights when you just need dinner to be quick, healthy, and delicious without any fuss? That’s exactly why this easy air fryer chicken sausage and veggies recipe has become my go-to. I swear, I make it at least once a week—it’s that good. Between the juicy chicken sausage and those perfectly crisp-tender veggies, all tossed with simple spices and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver. Plus, the air fryer does most of the work, so cleanup is a breeze. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked just like I am!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Oh my gosh, where do I even start? This recipe checks all the boxes for busy weeknights—or honestly, any night when you just want something delicious without the hassle. Here’s why it’s become my absolute favorite:
- Crazy fast: From fridge to table in 25 minutes flat. Even my hangry teenager can’t complain about that!
- Healthy but doesn’t taste like it: Packed with protein and veggies, but the paprika and garlic powder make it taste indulgent.
- One-basket wonder: The air fryer means minimal cleanup—no pots and pans piling up in the sink.
- Totally customizable: Swap in whatever veggies you’ve got (I’ve used everything from broccoli to sweet potatoes).
- Meal prep hero: Makes amazing leftovers that reheat perfectly for lunch the next day.
Seriously, this recipe is like your favorite pair of jeans—comfortable, reliable, and always makes you feel good.
Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Okay, let’s talk ingredients—and trust me, you probably have most of these already! The beauty of this recipe is how simple the shopping list is. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken sausage – sliced into ½-inch coins (I use the precooked kind—so much faster!)
- 2 cups bell peppers – any color, chopped into 1-inch chunks (those pre-cut bags from the store? Perfect.)
- 2 cups zucchini – sliced into half-moons about ¼-inch thick
- 1 red onion – sliced into wedges (they get so sweet when air fried!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil – just enough to coat everything nicely
- 1 tsp garlic powder – my secret flavor booster
- 1 tsp paprika – smoked paprika is amazing if you have it
- Salt and pepper – to taste (I’m generous with both)
See? Nothing fancy—just good, fresh ingredients that come together like magic in the air fryer. Now let’s get cooking!
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Alright, let’s get down to business! This recipe is so simple, but I’ve got a few tricks to make sure your chicken sausage and veggies come out perfect every single time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner ready before you know it.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
First things first—let’s chop! The key here is keeping everything roughly the same size so it cooks evenly. Slice your chicken sausage into those ½-inch coins I mentioned earlier (if they’re too thick, they won’t crisp up properly). For the veggies, aim for 1-inch pieces—bell peppers in chunks, zucchini in even half-moons, and red onion in wedges. I like to pile everything on one big cutting board—fewer dishes to wash later!
Step 2: Season and Toss
Now for the fun part! Dump all your prepped ingredients into a big bowl (or hey, just use the cutting board if you’re feeling lazy like me sometimes). Drizzle with olive oil—you want just enough to lightly coat everything without drowning it. Sprinkle on that garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then toss it all together with your hands. Yes, hands! You’ll get way better coverage than with a spoon. The sausage and veggies should look nicely speckled with spices.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat that air fryer to 400°F—it only takes about 3 minutes, but this helps everything cook evenly. Carefully pour your seasoned mix into the basket, spreading it in one single layer (no stacking! or you’ll get steamed veggies instead of crispy ones). Set the timer for 12 minutes, then at the 6-minute mark, pause to shake the basket like you mean it. This is crucial for even browning. When the timer goes off, check that the sausage is nicely browned and the veggies have those perfect little charred edges. If not, give it another 2-3 minutes. That’s it—dinner’s ready!
Tips for the Best Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Listen, I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count—here are my hard-earned secrets for air fryer perfection:
- Precooked sausage is your friend – It cooks faster and gets that gorgeous caramelized crust without drying out.
- Shake that basket! – Don’t just peek—really shake it halfway through to prevent any sad, unevenly cooked spots.
- Size matters – Keep veggie pieces uniform so nothing burns while others stay raw (nobody wants crunchy onions and mushy zucchini).
- Don’t overcrowd – Work in batches if needed. Crowding = steaming, and we want crispy!
- Spice it up – A pinch of red pepper flakes at the end adds the perfect kick.
Follow these, and you’ll have restaurant-quality results every time—pinky promise!
Variations for Your Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
The best part about this recipe? You can totally make it your own! Here are my favorite twists that keep things interesting:
- Swap the veggies: Sweet potatoes (cut small!) for zucchini, broccoli florets for bell peppers—whatever’s in your fridge works.
- Change up the seasoning: Italian seasoning instead of paprika, or add a sprinkle of curry powder for warmth.
- Try different sausages: Turkey, apple chicken, or even spicy andouille if you’re feeling bold.
- Cheesy finish: Toss with grated parmesan right after cooking—it’ll melt into salty perfection.
Honestly? The possibilities are endless. Make it once, then play around—it’s hard to mess this one up!
Serving Suggestions
Oh, the ways you can serve this! My absolute favorite is over a big scoop of fluffy quinoa—it soaks up all those delicious juices. Some nights I keep it simple with just crusty bread to mop up the plate (no shame!). A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette on the side? Perfection. Honestly though, it’s fantastic all on its own—I’ve been known to eat it straight from the air fryer basket when no one’s looking!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Here’s the best part—this easy air fryer chicken sausage and veggies makes amazing leftovers! Let it cool completely, then pop it in an airtight container—it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes (that’ll bring back the crispiness!) or microwave for 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry. Pro tip: Add a splash of water before microwaving to keep everything moist. Lunch tomorrow? Sorted!
Nutritional Information for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on why this meal makes me feel so good about my dinner choices! Each serving (about ¼ of the recipe) packs roughly:
- 280 calories – Light but satisfying
- 18g fat – Mostly the good kind from olive oil
- 20g protein – Thanks to that chicken sausage!
- 12g carbs – With 3g fiber from all those veggies
Remember—these are estimates since brands vary. Want it lighter? Use less oil or turkey sausage. Either way, it’s a balanced meal that keeps you full without the guilt!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen veggies instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just pat them dry first—frozen veggies release extra moisture that can make everything soggy. Add them straight from the freezer (no thawing needed) but expect 2-3 extra minutes of cook time. My favorite frozen mix? The “stir-fry blend” with broccoli and snap peas!
How do I prevent sticking without using too much oil?
First, make sure your air fryer basket is nice and hot before adding food—that preheating step is key. A quick spritz of cooking spray on the basket works wonders (just avoid aerosol sprays that can damage the coating). If things still stick, give the basket a gentle shake after 2 minutes of cooking—that early nudge helps release anything clinging on.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
You bet! Roast everything on a sheet pan at 425°F for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway. It won’t get quite as crispy, but still delicious. The air fryer just works faster and gives those perfect caramelized edges we all love!
What’s the best way to know when it’s done?
Look for golden-brown sausage and veggies with slightly charred tips—that’s when the magic happens! The onions should be soft and sweet, and zucchini tender but not mushy. When in doubt, sneak a bite—that’s my foolproof test. When in doubt, remember that proper cooking temperatures are essential for food safety, especially with poultry products like chicken sausage.
Share Your Feedback
Okay, I’ve spilled all my secrets—now it’s your turn! Did you try this easy air fryer chicken sausage and veggies? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Maybe you added your own twist (hello, extra garlic lovers!), or maybe it’s now in your weekly rotation like it is in mine. Whatever your experience, drop a comment below—your tips might just help another busy cook! And if you snapped a photo of that golden, crispy goodness? Even better. Nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen wins. Happy air frying, friends!
Print
1 Delicious 25-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage & Veggies Meal
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and healthy meal with air-fried chicken sausage and veggies that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cups zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss sausage, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until sausage is browned and veggies are tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use precooked chicken sausage for faster cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy air fryer chicken sausage and veggies, healthy meal, quick dinner