Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe makes 4 servings. The ingredient amounts can be adjusted proportionally, but the cooking steps and timing should remain the same for best results.

• 1 pound red potatoes
• 1 pound carrots, cut petite
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon herb mix (such as Trader Joe's 21 Seasoning Salute)
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
• 1 pound chicken and apple sausage, sliced

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425F (220C) and line a 12x18-inch sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Cut the potatoes into 1- to 1 1/2-inch chunks. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, petite carrots, onion pieces, and green beans.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and season with garlic salt, herb mix, and minced rosemary. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan and bake for 15 minutes.
5. After 15 minutes, add the sliced sausage to the pan and toss everything together. Return to the oven and continue baking until the potatoes and carrots are tender, about 15 to 20 more minutes.
6. Serve warm directly from the pan for a hearty, colorful meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 530
• Total Fat: 26g (33% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (23% DV)
• Cholesterol: 104mg (35% DV)
• Sodium: 1040mg (45% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 42g (15% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (32% DV)
• Total Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 33g (66% DV)
• Vitamin C: 35mg (39% DV)
• Calcium: 126mg (10% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (25% DV)
• Potassium: 1516mg (32% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual needs may vary.

**Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients. Consult a healthcare provider if following a medically restrictive diet.

History and Origins of Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner

The Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner is a modern twist on classic American comfort food. Its roots can be traced to the mid-20th century, when home cooks increasingly embraced one-pan meals for convenience. Combining sausage with seasonal vegetables has long been a staple in European and American cuisine, but the introduction of chicken and apple sausage brought a sweeter, lighter flavor profile compared to traditional pork sausages. This dish embodies the American trend of simplifying dinner preparation while still offering balanced nutrition.

Regional Variations

While this sheet pan dinner is widely enjoyed across the United States, there are subtle regional adaptations. In the Midwest, it is common to use hearty root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips in addition to red potatoes. Coastal areas might incorporate green beans, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes, reflecting the abundance of fresh produce. Herb blends also vary by region; in the South, thyme and sage are popular, whereas in the Northeast, rosemary and parsley often dominate the seasoning mix.

Comparison with Similar Dishes

Although it shares similarities with other sheet pan dinners, the Chicken Apple Sausage version stands out for its combination of sweet and savory flavors. Unlike traditional sausage and vegetable roasts, the apple-infused sausage adds a subtle sweetness that balances the earthiness of roasted potatoes and carrots. Unlike casseroles or skillet meals, this dish requires minimal cleanup and allows each ingredient to retain its distinct texture and flavor due to roasting on a single sheet pan.

Typical Serving Occasions

This meal is most commonly served as a weeknight family dinner due to its simplicity and nutritional balance. It is also a popular choice for casual gatherings, potlucks, and meal prep, as it scales easily to feed multiple people. Typically, the dish is served hot from the oven, often accompanied by a light salad, crusty bread, or a simple grain like quinoa or rice. Leftovers are easily reheated and maintain their flavor, making it convenient for busy households.

Interesting Facts

• Chicken apple sausage was first commercially produced in the United States in the 1990s and quickly became a popular alternative to pork sausage.
• Sheet pan dinners gained popularity because they reduce cooking time and allow for easy meal planning without sacrificing flavor.
• The natural sweetness of the apple in the sausage caramelizes during roasting, giving the vegetables and sausage a rich, slightly glossy finish.
• Using parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also simplifies cleanup, making this dish especially appealing for busy home cooks.
• Herb blends like Trader Joes 21 Seasoning Salute or homemade rosemary-garlic mixtures can dramatically alter the flavor profile, allowing for a customizable dish based on personal taste or seasonal availability.

FAQ about Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Comments