10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies — Quick Dinner Idea

I fell in love with this 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies the first week I got an air fryer. One hectic weekday evening I had a fridge full of peppers and a busy toddler tugging at my pant leg — I wanted healthy, warm food on the table fast. Tossing everything into the air fryer, I watched those vibrant peppers caramelize and the Italian-style chicken sausage brown to perfection in just minutes. It became an instant favorite for its speed, color, and comforting roasted flavor. Air-frying veggies and sausage has roots in the simple, rustic meals of Mediterranean and Italian home kitchens where sausage, peppers, and onions come together often — but the air fryer modernizes it into a fast, everyday classic.

Who is this recipe for?

• This recipe is perfect for busy parents, quick dinner seekers, meal-preppers, and anyone who wants a speedy, healthy dinner with minimal cleanup.

Core ingredients overview:

• This dish brings together crisp bell peppers (red and orange), sweet red onion, tender zucchini, a simple spice blend (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning), a touch of avocado oil and kosher salt, and a package of robust Italian-flavored chicken sausage. Together they create a colorful, well-seasoned, and protein-packed 10-minute meal that’s both family-friendly and easy to customize.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools needed:

• Air fryer (medium to large basket)
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking spray (or oil mister)

Ingredients (with quick benefits):

• 1 large red bell pepper — cut into 1-inch pieces — adds sweetness, color, and vitamin C
• 1 large orange bell pepper — cut into 1-inch pieces — provides bright flavor and antioxidants
• 1 red onion — peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces — offers savory sweetness and natural caramelization
• 1 medium zucchini — cut into 1-inch pieces — adds moisture, fiber, and a tender texture
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil — high smoke point for even roasting and healthy fats
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder — boosts savory flavor and depth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder — enhances sweetness and umami notes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — brings herby Mediterranean flavors (oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt — seasons and balances all flavors
• Pinch of black pepper — adds a touch of heat and contrast
• 1 package chicken sausage (12 oz) — I used a robust Italian flavor — lean protein with familiar Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Chop the veggies: Cut the red bell pepper, orange bell pepper, red onion, and zucchini into 1-inch pieces and add them to a large bowl.
2. Oil the veggies: Drizzle the vegetables with 1 tablespoon avocado oil and toss to coat evenly.
3. Mix the spices: In a smaller bowl, combine 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Sprinkle the spice blend over the oiled veggies and toss until well coated.
4. Slice the sausage: Slice the chicken sausage into 3/4-inch rounds and add them to the bowl with the veggies. Toss everything together so the sausage gets some of the seasoning.
5. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (if your model recommends preheating). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Air-fry: Arrange the veggies and sausage in an even layer in the basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through (about 5 minutes) to ensure even browning. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
7. Serve: Once the chicken sausage and veggies are cooked and slightly caramelized, remove from the air fryer. Serve as-is or with cooked cauliflower rice or brown rice for a more filling meal.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: Yes — cook the sausage and veggies, let them cool, then portion into freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep for 2–3 months. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What can I use instead of chicken sausage?
A: Substitute turkey sausage, pork sausage, smoked sausage, or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Adjust cook time if your substitute is thicker or pre-cooked.

Q: Can I use olive oil instead of avocado oil?
A: Yes — extra-virgin olive oil works fine. Avocado oil is recommended for its higher smoke point, but both will yield tasty results.

Q: Do I need to peel the zucchini?
A: No — the skin is tender and nutritious. Leave it on for texture and added fiber.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: For best browning, give the veggies and sausage space — cook in batches if necessary.
• Cut pieces evenly: Uniform 1-inch pieces cook in the same time and prevent some pieces from burning while others stay raw.
• Flip or shake halfway: This ensures even caramelization and prevents soggy bottoms.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the spice mix.

Conclusion

If you liked this quick and colorful weeknight meal, you might enjoy comparing similar recipes and variations: 10 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Sausage and Veggies – Pinch Me Good, 20 minute Air Fryer Sausage and Crispy Veggies – Wholesomelicious, Air Fryer Sausage and Vegetables – Cooking With Coit, Spicy Edamame Cucumber Salad & more! Week of … – Lainie’s 3-2-1s, and Air Fryer Smoked Sausage with Vegetables | AirFried.com for more inspiration and side-dish ideas.

Enjoy this speedy, flavorful meal and share it with friends and family. Always add

tag after Directions.