Chicken With Italian Sausage
A hearty Italian-inspired chicken and sausage dish with rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting dinners and serving over buttered noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped onion and minced garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until soft.
- Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, saute the Italian sausages in the remaining oil until browned.
- Remove the sausages, let cool, then cut into 2-inch lengths.
- Dry the chicken thighs and legs, then season with salt and pepper.
- Saute the chicken in the same pan until browned, then remove.
- Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of oil from the pan.
- Add the onions, garlic, sausage, tomato paste, and wine; scrape up all the brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return the chicken pieces to the pan, turning to coat them with the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Serve over lightly buttered noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute turkey sausage for the Italian sausages. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also enhance the sauce's depth. Make sure to brown the chicken well for a richer flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over lightly buttered spaghetti noodles for a comforting meal. A side of Italian Crispy Broccoli With Fettuccine pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken and sausage. A simple green salad or garlic bread can complete the meal, adding freshness and crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much. This dish also freezes well for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Italian Sausage contains roughly 1580 calories, with 23g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead of thighs and legs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but the cooking time may be reduced. Ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Boneless cuts may not develop as much flavor from browning, so consider searing them well.
What can I substitute for tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, use an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. You may need to cook it a bit longer to thicken the sauce, as tomato paste is more concentrated. Adjust seasoning to taste since the flavor intensity will differ.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic. Additionally, using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild will elevate the heat level. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).