Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies – Easy 10 Minute Healthy Dinner Recipe

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz fully cooked chicken sausage (smoked or Italian-style), sliced into 1/2-inch coins; 2 medium bell peppers (any color), cored, seeded, and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium zucchini (about 7 oz), cut into 1/2-inch half-moons; 1 small red onion, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges; 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano or basil); 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional: Grape tomatoes (whole or halved), mushrooms (quartered), broccoli florets, or baby spinach

Posted on August 12, 2025

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The sizzling sound of chicken sausage hitting the air fryer basket is honestly music to my tired, hungry ears. I know you’ve had those nights—work ran late, kids are melting down, and you’re staring at a fridge full of random veggies. That’s exactly how this air fryer chicken sausage and veggies recipe was born! It’s the kind of meal that lets you toss everything in, set a timer, and—boom!—dinner’s done before you can even finish scrolling your phone.

I started making this quick meal during a season of pure chaos (you know, the toddler years). Back then, I needed something hearty, healthy, and just plain fast—something that didn’t demand a mountain of dirty dishes. After a few test runs, I landed on this combo: juicy chicken sausage, colorful bell peppers, crisp zucchini, and smoky seasoning all crisped up in the air fryer. The best part? It takes less than ten minutes from start to finish. That’s not an exaggeration—I’ve timed myself (multiple times, because I’m weirdly competitive with my own recipes).

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a fuss-free protein-packed dinner, this air fryer chicken sausage and veggies dish checks every box. It’s loaded with flavor, customizable with whatever you have on hand, and honestly makes leftovers you’ll look forward to (if you even have any left). Plus, it’s gluten-free, lower in carbs, and perfect for meal prep. After dozens of batches, I can say with total confidence—this is my go-to busy weeknight lifesaver.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, which means you’ll spend more time enjoying dinner than making it. No need to preheat the oven or hover over the stove.
Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required—just grab your favorite chicken sausage and whatever veggies are rolling around in your crisper drawer.
Perfect for Every Occasion: Busy weeknights? Check. Sunday meal prep? Double check. Easy lunch leftovers? You bet.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky kids and skeptical spouses rave about this one. It’s got that crave-worthy mix of smoky, savory, and just a little sweet from the roasted veggies.
Unbelievably Delicious: The air fryer gives the sausage those crispy edges while keeping it juicy, and the veggies caramelize just enough to make every bite amazing.

What sets this recipe apart is the technique: slicing the sausage into coins so each piece gets a little crispy, tossing the veggies in just the right amount of oil and seasoning, and using the high heat of the air fryer to lock in all that flavor. I’ve tried sheet pan versions, but honestly, nothing beats the air fryer’s speed and texture.

This isn’t just another “throw it together and hope for the best” meal. It’s a tested, tweaked, and family-approved go-to that feels comforting yet light. If you’re looking for a nutritious dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste (or your sanity), this air fryer chicken sausage and veggies recipe is about to become your new best friend. Trust me—after the first bite, you’ll understand why my family requests it at least once a week.

Ingredients Needed

Simple, real-food ingredients make this recipe a staple in my kitchen. Everything you need is easy to find, and substitutions are totally welcome if you’re out of something.

Chicken Sausage, fully cooked (12 oz/340g): I use smoked or Italian-style chicken sausage—Aidells or Applegate are my go-tos for flavor and clean ingredients. Slice into ½-inch (1.25cm) coins.
Bell Peppers (2 medium, any color): Core, seed, and cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces. Red and yellow peppers are sweetest, but green works if you like a little bite.
Zucchini (1 medium, about 7oz/200g): Cut into half-moons, about ½-inch thick.
Red Onion (1 small): Peeled and sliced into ½-inch wedges. Adds a punch of flavor and some sweetness as it roasts.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon/15ml): Just enough to coat everything without making it greasy. Avocado oil works too.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon/2g): For an extra savory kick.
Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon/2g): Totally optional, but adds a subtle smoky depth.
Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Start with ¼ teaspoon (1g) salt and a few grinds of pepper, adjust after tasting.
Dried Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon/2g): Or use dried oregano or basil if that’s what you’ve got.
Optional: Add a handful of grape tomatoes (whole or halved), mushrooms (quartered), or broccoli florets for more veggie variety. You can even toss in some baby spinach the last minute for extra greens.

Ingredient notes and swaps:

Sausage: Turkey sausage, vegan sausage, or even sliced kielbasa work if you need a substitution.
Veggies: Use whatever’s in season—summer squash, asparagus, or green beans are all delicious. Frozen veggies can work in a pinch, just don’t thaw first.
Oil: For oil-free, spray lightly with cooking spray or skip (results may be dryer but still tasty).
Seasoning: Taco seasoning or Cajun spice are fun alternatives if you’re in the mood for a twist.

Equipment Needed

Air Fryer (4-quart/3.8L or larger): Basket-style is easiest for tossing, but oven-style works too. I’ve used both my Cosori and Ninja models—both deliver crispy results.
Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: For chopping sausage and veggies. If you’re in a rush, pre-cut veggies save a ton of time.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing everything in seasoning and oil. You can mix right in the air fryer basket if you want to save a dish (I do this when I’m feeling extra lazy).
Tongs or Large Spoon: For stirring halfway through cooking. Silicone tongs are gentle and easy to clean.
Optional: Parchment liners for easy cleanup (especially if your air fryer basket tends to stick). Just make sure to use air fryer-safe liners.

Don’t sweat if you don’t have the “fanciest” tools. I started with a basic air fryer from the discount aisle and it worked just fine. Just keep your knife sharp, and if your air fryer basket is showing its age, a quick scrub with baking soda keeps it going strong.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies

Prep the Ingredients (3 minutes):
- Slice the chicken sausage into ½-inch (1.25cm) thick coins.
- Chop bell peppers and zucchini into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch/2.5cm).
- Slice the red onion into wedges.
- If adding extra veggies (like mushrooms or tomatoes), prep those too.
Tip: Make sure all your veggies are cut about the same size so they cook evenly!
Toss with Oil & Seasoning (1 minute):
- Add all chopped veggies and sausage to a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle on garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
If you’re in a hurry, mix right in the air fryer basket (just be careful not to spill!).
Arrange in Air Fryer (1 minute):
- Spread the sausage and veggie mixture out in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Don’t overcrowd—the hot air needs to circulate for even browning. If your air fryer is small, cook in two batches.
If you skip this, you might end up with steamed veggies instead of caramelized ones. Learned that the hard way!
Air Fry (6 minutes):
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through (about 3 minutes in) to flip everything for even browning.
- Check doneness—veggies should be slightly charred at the edges and sausage golden and sizzling.
Warning: If you use raw sausage, cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
Serve Hot:
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with extra herbs if you like, and enjoy right away.
Prep Note: Some air fryers run hot—if your veggies are browning too quickly, reduce the temp to 380°F (193°C) and check after 5 minutes.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t overcrowd: If you pile too much in the basket, things steam instead of crisp. I learned this after a few limp veggie disasters—so, when in doubt, cook in batches.
Shake, shake, shake: Shaking the basket halfway through helps everything brown evenly. If you forget, just stir with tongs when you remember (no biggie—done it myself plenty of times).
Uniform pieces: Cut your veggies and sausage to roughly the same size. This isn’t just for looks—it really helps them cook at the same rate.
Check early: Air fryers can be quirky. Start checking at the 5-minute mark the first time you try this recipe. The difference between caramelized and burnt happens fast!
Mix up the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes I add a dash of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a little zing.
Batch cooking: If you’re making a double batch, keep the first round warm in a low oven (200°F/93°C) while the rest cooks. This keeps everything crisp, not soggy.
Clean-up tip: Air fryer baskets with stuck-on bits? Soak in warm, soapy water right away, then use a soft brush. Trust me, scrubbing after it dries is a pain!

Honestly, the more you make this air fryer chicken sausage and veggies dinner, the easier it gets. I’ve forgotten the oil, doubled the garlic, and even swapped in frozen veggies—all with tasty results. It’s pretty forgiving. The only real “fail” was when I overloaded the basket and everything came out a little sad. Lesson learned: give those veggies some space!

Variations & Adaptations

Low-Carb Version: Skip starchy veggies like potatoes or carrots and stick with bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Use sugar-free chicken sausage for even fewer carbs.
Vegan/Vegetarian: Swap chicken sausage for plant-based sausage or marinated tofu. I’ve tried Field Roast and Beyond Sausage—both work beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or sprinkle with cayenne before cooking. Sometimes I finish with a drizzle of hot honey when I’m feeling wild.
Seasonal Veggies: In summer, toss in cherry tomatoes and fresh corn. In winter, try Brussels sprouts or sweet potato cubes (add a couple extra minutes for root veggies).
Different Cooking Methods: No air fryer? Spread everything out on a large sheet pan and roast at 425°F (218°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Allergen-Friendly: Use sausage brands that are gluten- and dairy-free if needed. For soy allergies, check plant-based sausage labels carefully.

My personal favorite twist? I sometimes add a handful of baby spinach in the last minute of cooking—just so it wilts but stays bright green. My kids love it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top, too. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This air fryer chicken sausage and veggies dish is best served hot, straight from the air fryer—those crispy edges are just unbeatable! Pile it high in bowls, and sprinkle with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of brightness.

Serving ideas: Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal. It also makes a killer wrap filling or protein-packed salad topper.
Beverage pairings: I love it with sparkling water and lemon or a chilled glass of sauvignon blanc if it’s been “one of those days.”
Storage: Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I’ve even frozen portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Pop leftovers back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness. Microwave works in a pinch, but the texture will be softer.
Flavor note: Honestly, the flavors get even deeper the next day, especially if you used lots of seasoning. Great for meal prep!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This air fryer chicken sausage and veggies recipe is a balanced dinner that’s high in protein, fiber, and vitamins—without a ton of calories or carbs.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, 1/4 of recipe): 250 calories, 16g protein, 12g fat, 14g carbs, 4g fiber, 2g sugar. (Values are approximate and will vary based on brands and veggies used.)
Health highlights: Chicken sausage is a lean protein, bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, and zucchini offers potassium and antioxidants.
Dietary notes: Gluten-free (just check your sausage), low-carb, dairy-free, and easily made paleo or Whole30 with compliant sausage.
Allergens: Always check sausage ingredients for gluten, soy, or dairy if sensitive. Use certified brands as needed.

I love how this meal fits into my healthy eating routine—even my kids eat most of the veggies without complaints. It’s satisfying and nourishing, but never heavy.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that’s healthy, quick, and actually tastes good, you’ll want to keep this air fryer chicken sausage and veggies meal in your back pocket. It’s the ultimate weeknight hack—minimal prep, fast cooking, and zero compromise on flavor.

Honestly, I make some version of this almost every week, and it never gets old. It’s endlessly adaptable, so don’t be shy about swapping in your favorite veggies or seasonings. That’s the beauty of it—make it yours!

Let me know how you customize your bowl in the comments below, or share your photos on Pinterest and tag me—I’d love to see your creations. Trust me, once you try this one, you’ll wonder how you ever survived weeknight dinners without it. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw chicken sausage instead of fully cooked?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cook time to 10-12 minutes or until the sausage reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Slice raw sausage into coins for faster, even cooking.

What veggies work best for air fryer chicken sausage and veggies?

Bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and mushrooms are my favorites, but you can use broccoli, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or even green beans. Try to keep pieces the same size for even cooking.

How do I prevent everything from getting soggy in the air fryer?

Don’t overcrowd the basket—spread everything in a single layer, and shake halfway through cooking for the crispiest results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep everything in advance and store in the fridge. When ready to eat, just toss in the air fryer for 6 minutes and dinner’s ready in a flash.

Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?

It can be! Just make sure your chicken sausage is certified gluten-free and dairy-free. Most veggie options are naturally free of both.

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