Chicken Sausage Stir-Fry Skillet
This chicken sausage stir-fry skillet combines lean protein with colorful vegetables in a savory-sweet sauce for a quick, nutritious dinner. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's a high-protein meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone looking for a healthier alternative to takeout without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 12 oz 4 links pre-cooked chicken sausage, sliced into rounds (Italian, garlic, or apple flavored all work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to your spice preference
- 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- Optional: 2 cups cooked brown rice quinoa, or cauliflower rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by mixing together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned on multiple sides. The goal here is good caramelization, which equals flavor. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. When hot, add the onions and cook for 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the bell peppers and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender. You want them to still have some bite—nobody likes mushy vegetables.
- Create a small space in the center of the skillet by pushing the vegetables to the sides. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to this space and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick cooking prevents them from burning while still releasing their aromatics.
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately over brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice if desired, or enjoy it on its own for a lower-carb option.
Notes
- For meal prep, this recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store the stir-fry separate from any grain base for best results.
- The stir-fry itself reheats beautifully in a microwave or quickly in a skillet with a splash of water.
- Feel free to add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra crunch or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.
- If you prefer a saucier stir-fry, double the sauce ingredients.
- For an extra nutritional boost, toss in a handful of spinach or kale in the last minute of cooking.