One Pan Chicken Sausage And Rice

Name: One Pan Chicken Sausage And Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Inspiration

I love making One Pan Chicken Sausage and Rice when I'm short on time but still want a hearty meal. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity—everything cooks together in one pan, and the flavors marry beautifully. The smoky sausage combined with the savory rice makes each bite satisfying. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is always a bonus! This dish has quickly become a family favorite, and I think it will become yours too.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:25:36.264Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I wasn't sure how well the chicken sausage would complement the rice, but the results were nothing short of amazing. The flavors blended wonderfully, creating a comforting dish that I couldn't stop eating. I highly recommend using high-quality chicken sausage for the best flavor.

One little trick I found helpful was allowing the rice to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This made a noticeable difference in the texture, ensuring it was fluffy and not sticky. Trust me, taking that extra step is worth it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience means fewer dishes and less hassle.
Hearty and satisfying flavors that please the whole family.
Quick preparation and cooking time make it perfect for busy weeknights.

Perfecting the Sausage

Choosing the right chicken sausage can significantly enhance the flavor profile of this dish. Opt for a brand that has a balance of herbs and spices, which will infuse the rice with rich, savory notes. For a lighter option, chicken sausage with reduced fat content can be used, ensuring that it still retains a good amount of flavor. Just be cautious with additional seasoning, as lower-fat sausages might lack some of the depth found in their heavier counterparts.

When browning the sausage, ensure that your skillet is sufficiently heated before adding the slices. This step not only renders out the fat but also creates a delightful golden crust that adds depth to the overall dish. Look for a nice char before removing the sausage; it should lift easily from the pan and have a slightly crispy exterior. This caramelization process is key to a fully developed flavor in the finished meal.

Vegetable Varieties

While bell peppers and onions are the traditional additions, feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge. Zucchini, spinach, or even canned diced tomatoes can add different textures and flavors. Just be mindful of cooking times; heartier vegetables like carrots or celery may require a few extra minutes of sautéing to soften adequately before adding the rice.

Incorporating garlic towards the end of the vegetable sautéing process ensures that it retains its robust flavor without becoming bitter. Sauté until fragrant; this usually takes only about 30 seconds. A handy tip: if you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for extra kick. This depth of flavor will beautifully complement the sweetness of the sausage and the savory nature of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delicious one-pan meal:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make a delicious One Pan Chicken Sausage and Rice:

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 4-5 minutes.

Add Rice and Seasoning

Stir in the rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the rice is well mixed with the vegetables.

Combine with Broth

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. Return the browned sausage to the pan.

Cook and Fluff

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 25 minutes or until the rice is tender. Let it sit off the heat for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal with family or friends!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand, like peas or corn, to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a flavorful salad, perfect for a quick lunch option. To freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe bags. Squeeze out excess air before sealing, and it should keep well for up to three months.

For best results when reheating, avoid using a microwave if possible, as this can lead to uneven warming and affect the texture of the rice. If you're reheating a larger batch, consider using an oven set to 350°F, covering the dish with foil to prevent drying out. It'll take about 15-20 minutes to heat through, making it an effortless meal even on your busiest days.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pan Chicken Sausage and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad for extra crunch and color. Try a light vinaigrette to offset the hearty flavors of the dish. If you wish to enhance the dish further, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of crumbled feta can add rich creaminess that complements the spices well.

For a different twist, consider serving it in bowls topped with fresh avocado slices or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Adding a handful of fresh spinach just before serving can also give the dish a lovely fresh touch. The versatility of this recipe allows you to personalize it easily while still keeping it straightforward and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer—about 45 minutes total for brown rice.

→ Is this recipe freezable?

Absolutely! You can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute chicken sausage with another type of meat?

Yes, feel free to use turkey sausage or even diced chicken breast. Cooking times may vary.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.