Chicken Apple Sausage Skillet

This chicken and apple sausage skillet with sweet potatoes brings together hearty, warming flavors perfect for a cozy dinner. It balances the sweetness of the potatoes and sausage with earthy spices like thyme, smoked paprika, and a hint of cinnamon. Whether you want a simple family meal or a comforting dish to share at fall gatherings, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.

I first made this recipe after a crisp autumn day spent apple picking with my aunt. The blend of crisp sausage and sweet root vegetables was unexpectedly inviting and has since become a favorite in my kitchen.

Ingredients

• Smoked chicken and apple sausage: One pound sliced into half inch pieces for that perfect bite of savory and sweet
• Sweet potatoes: Two large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed, their natural sweetness and creamy texture balance the spices
• Yellow onion: One medium yellow onion diced to add a mild, caramelized backdrop of flavor once sautéed
• Olive oil: Two tablespoons olive oil divided to ensure a rich sauté without overwhelming the ingredients
• Garlic: Two cloves garlic minced to infuse a deep, aromatic base note
• Dried thyme: Half a teaspoon dried thyme which lends an earthy, herbal aroma classic to fall dishes
• Smoked paprika: Half a teaspoon smoked paprika offering smoky depth and subtle warmth
• Ground cinnamon: Quarter teaspoon ground cinnamon aimed at highlighting the natural sweetness of the potatoes and sausage
• Salt and black pepper: Half a teaspoon salt and a quarter teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for seasoning essentials
• When picking sweet potatoes: When picking sweet potatoes look for firm, unblemished skins and a vibrant orange flesh inside for maximum flavor and softness

Instructions

Prep all ingredients:

Slice the sausage into half inch pieces, cube the peeled sweet potatoes evenly for uniform cooking, dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic to distribute its flavor evenly.

Cook sweet potatoes:

Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for seven to eight minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. Avoid overcrowding to get a nice brown crust rather than steaming.

Add onion and seasonings:

Push the sweet potatoes to one side of the pan, pour in the remaining oil, then stir in the diced onion. Sauté for about three minutes until the onion softens and turns translucent. Sprinkle in dried thyme, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper then toss everything well so the spices coat the vegetables and onion.

Incorporate sausage and garlic:

Add the chicken apple sausage slices along with the minced garlic. Cook together for five to seven minutes, stirring now and then, until the sausage browns nicely, sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, and the flavors have melded.

Final taste and serve:

Taste the skillet for seasoning and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately straight from the skillet to keep the textures lively and the aromas inviting.

One of my favorite ingredients in this skillet has to be smoked paprika It transforms the dish from ordinary to deeply aromatic with just a pinch. Every time I make this, it reminds me of evenings around the kitchen table with family, sharing good food and laughter.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to bring back some crispness in the sausage and to avoid mushy potatoes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey apple sausage for a lighter protein option that still keeps the sweet and savory balance. Swap sweet potatoes with butternut squash to add a creamy, slightly nutty character while keeping the autumn vibes. Use avocado oil instead of olive oil if you want a higher smoke point for richer browning without burning.

Serving Suggestions

Add a handful of baby spinach or fresh parsley at the end of cooking to brighten the dish visually and flavor wise. Pair this skillet with a crisp apple slaw or a slice of crusty sourdough to round out the meal with fresh texture and a bit of tang.

Serve immediately straight from the skillet to keep the textures lively and the aromas inviting. Leftovers reheat well for easy meals later.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Why are my sweet potatoes still firm?

If sweet potatoes remain firm, cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam or add a bit of water and continue cooking until tender.

→ Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, pre-cooked sausage works well; simply brown it lightly with the sweet potatoes to enhance flavor and heat through.

→ Is it okay to leave the skin on sweet potatoes?

The skin adds texture and nutrients. If used, scrub thoroughly before cubing to ensure cleanliness.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Yes, store it in an airtight container and gently reheat in a skillet to maintain texture and flavor.

→ What oil can I use instead of olive oil?

Avocado oil is an excellent alternative, providing a higher smoke point for deeper caramelization and richer flavor.