The Ultimate Guide: How to Cook Chicken Apple Sausage in the Oven

Are you looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken apple sausage? Oven baking is hands down one of the best methods! I’ve been cooking these tasty sausages for years, and I’m excited to share my favorite techniques with you. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this guide will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken apple sausage every time.

Why Cook Chicken Apple Sausage in the Oven?

Before we dive into the cooking process let’s talk about why the oven method is so great

• Even cooking throughout the sausage
• Less mess than stovetop frying
• Minimal hands-on time (perfect for multitasking!)
• Crispy exterior with juicy interior
• No need to constantly monitor or flip (except once halfway through)

Basic Oven Method for Chicken Apple Sausage

What You’ll Need:

• Chicken apple sausages (pre-cooked or raw)
• Olive oil or avocado oil
• Seasonings of your choice (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil

Simple Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil
3. Place sausages on the baking sheet, leaving space between each
4. Brush lightly with olive oil if desired
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through
6. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving

This basic method works great for most chicken apple sausages, but cooking time may vary depending on whether your sausages are pre-cooked or raw, and their thickness

Elevated Chicken Apple Sausage Recipe

For a more flavorful version try this delicious recipe that adds some extra seasoning

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken apple sausages
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper
4. Brush sausages evenly with the seasoning mixture
5. Arrange sausages on the baking sheet
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through
7. Remove when golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F
8. Let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving

Sheet Pan Dinner with Chicken Apple Sausage

Want to make a complete meal? Try this fantastic sheet pan dinner inspired by Cailee Eats:

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken apple sausages, sliced into rounds
• 1-2 cups shaved brussels sprouts
• 1-2 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 small sweet potato, cubed
• 1 small red onion, cubed
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and crushed rosemary to taste
• Optional toppings: goat cheese or parmesan cheese
• Apple cider vinaigrette (store-bought works great!)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F
2. Place sliced sausage and all veggies on a large baking sheet in an even layer
3. Drizzle with avocado oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary
4. Mix well and spread back into an even layer
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until vegetables are soft and starting to brown
6. Optional: broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness
7. Serve topped with cheese and a drizzle of vinaigrette

This makes an amazing weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup!

Common Questions About Cooking Chicken Apple Sausage

Do I need to pierce the sausages before cooking?

You don’t have to, but making a few small pricks with a fork can help prevent them from bursting in the oven. Just don’t pierce too deeply or you’ll lose those delicious juices!

Can I cook frozen chicken apple sausage in the oven?

Yes! Add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if starting from frozen. However, for best results, I recommend thawing them first.

How do I know when chicken apple sausage is done?

The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken sausage should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into one sausage – it should be hot throughout with no pink meat visible.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best things about oven cooking. Just make sure to choose vegetables that cook in about the same time as the sausages, or give quick-cooking veggies a head start.

Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Chicken Apple Sausage

1. Don’t overcrowd the pan – Leave space between sausages for even cooking
2. Use parchment paper – Makes cleanup super easy and prevents sticking
3. Try different seasonings – Maple syrup, dijon mustard, or herb blends work great
4. Check doneness early – Especially if your sausages are pre-cooked
5. Let them rest – A few minutes of resting time helps the juices redistribute

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve mastered cooking chicken apple sausage in the oven, try these serving ideas:

• Slice and add to breakfast bowls with eggs and roasted potatoes
• Serve on a bun with caramelized onions and whole grain mustard
• Add to a fall salad with apples, cranberries, and pecans
• Slice and toss with pasta, olive oil, and parmesan
• Include in a breakfast hash with sweet potatoes and bell peppers

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken apple sausage, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat:

• Microwave: 30-60 seconds (quick but may make texture softer)
• Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes (best for maintaining texture)
• Skillet: Slice and quickly heat in a skillet (great for getting crispy edges)

Why We Love Chicken Apple Sausage

I’ve been cooking with chicken apple sausage for years, and there’s so much to love about this versatile protein:

• Lower in fat than traditional pork sausage
• Sweet and savory flavor profile
• Precooked options make for quick meals
• Works in breakfast, lunch, or dinner recipes
• Kid-friendly option that adults enjoy too

Final Thoughts

Cooking chicken apple sausage in the oven is one of the easiest ways to prepare this delicious protein. Whether you’re making a simple meal or creating a full sheet pan dinner, the oven method gives you consistent results with minimal effort.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some chicken apple sausage and give these methods a try. I’d love to hear how your dishes turn out!