Grocery
Sweet Italian Chicken Sausage with Kale
What it is
This is a pre-seasoned sausage made from ground chicken, blended with sweet Italian-style seasonings and finely chopped kale. The chicken provides a leaner base compared to pork, while the kale adds a subtle earthy note and a bit of color. It is typically sold in links and is ready to be cooked and enjoyed as part of a meal.
How people cook with it
This sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from quick weeknight meals to more elaborate weekend brunches.
- Added to pasta sauces
- Cooked in a skillet for breakfast
- Grilled for outdoor gatherings
- Stuffed into peppers
To cook, you can pan-fry the sausage links in a skillet over medium heat until they are browned and cooked through. Alternatively, they can be grilled on a barbecue until they have nice char marks and are heated through. You can also remove the casings and crumble the sausage meat to brown it in a pan, which is useful for incorporating into sauces or other dishes. Ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to pork-based Italian sausages, this chicken version is generally lighter and leaner. The addition of kale offers a distinct texture and a hint of green vegetable, which is not typically found in traditional Italian sausages. The sweet seasoning profile remains similar, aiming for a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
How to keep the rest
Refrigerate any unused sausage in its original packaging or an airtight container. It should be kept cold and consumed within a few days of opening or by the 'use by' date on the package. For longer storage, it can be frozen.