Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples
by Andrea Wiggins
Between after-school activities, sports practices, homework, and trying to get everything ready for the next day, weeknights can feel like a whirlwind. That’s why you’ll love this recipe—it’s ready in under an hour with minimal prep, making it the perfect autumn recipe for those jam-packed evenings. Pop everything onto a sheet pan; while it cooks, you can tackle other tasks or relax for a bit!
In our house, apples are always in stock—they’re my go-to fruit, and I’m all for it! Apples are loaded with fiber, have a long shelf life, and make the perfect grab-and-go snack. So when I found myself meal planning and staring at the abundance of apples in our kitchen, I knew I had to find a way to use them in something savory. That’s when I came across this one-pan meal: chicken sausage with fennel and apples. I’m not big on sweets, and this recipe checked all the boxes—one pan (less mess!), apples (yay, nutrition!), and it’s savory. It’s also the perfect fall recipe for busy weeknights when life gets hectic.
Health Benefits of Seasonal Ingredients: Apples and Fennel
This dish isn’t just tasty—it’s nutritious too!
Fennel: This fall vegetable is a nutrition powerhouse. It’s packed with fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, which are great for heart health and digestion. Plus, fennel’s natural antibacterial properties might even help fend off those pesky fall colds.
Apples: We all know apples are a go-to snack but also brimming with health benefits. Apples are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion, heart, and brain health. Some studies suggest they can also improve your mood and reduce cancer risk. More reasons to incorporate them into your meals!
Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples Ingredients
- Chicken Sausage Links: You can find chicken sausage links at your local grocery store. They often come in flavor variations like sweet or hot, but for this recipe, Italian chicken sausage links are recommended.
- Fennel: You will need two fennel bulbs with the fronds (the green part on top) reserved for later. Choose a fennel bulb that is heavy for its size, white with light green markings, and firm. Avoid bulbs that are yellowing or have brown spots on them. Find more tips for picking the best produce.
- Autumn Glory Apples: You will need two medium Autumn Glory apples cut into 1-inch wedges.
- Olive oil and Apple Cider Vinegar: A simple drizzle of olive oil and a splash of apple cider vinegar, along with salt and pepper, will coat everything before it’s roasted to perfection.
How to Make Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples
Making this savory one-pan meal is super simple. Just prep your fennel and apples by slicing them, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then toss the sausage, apples, and fennel in it. Lay everything out on your sheet pan, drizzle any leftover dressing from the bowl on top, and bake. In about 40–50 minutes, the sausages will be cooked through, and the apples and fennel will be beautifully tender.
Variations on Protein
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. If you don’t have chicken sausage or just want to switch things up, you can try other proteins:
- Chicken breasts: A leaner alternative that works just as well. Make sure they’re fully cooked before serving.
- Pork sausage: If you prefer traditional sausage, pork sausage links are a great choice, and you can find them in Italian flavors too.
- Plant-based sausage: For a meat-free option, plant-based sausage links work wonderfully. Most stores carry Italian-flavored plant-based sausages that complement the other ingredients perfectly.
What to Serve with Chicken Sausage, Fennel, and Apples
While this dish is hearty and delicious on its own, you can serve it with some simple sides for an even more satisfying meal. Steamed veggies or an air-fried side are easy additions, or you could go for a fall-inspired salad like this roasted butternut squash, beet, and fennel salad.
For dessert, try pairing it with a Caramel Apple Trifle. It’s made with Autumn Glory apples, layered with creamy mousse and crunchy granola—perfectly capturing the flavors of fall.
This one-pan meal with seasonal ingredients is easy to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for busy families. You’ll love how it brings fall flavors to the table with minimal effort, and the whole family will be asking for seconds! This post is in partnership with Autumn Glory Apples, grown exclusively in Washington by Superfresh Growers. These apples are packed with flavors of cinnamon and caramel, making them a dreamy choice for both sweet and savory dishes. Trust me, they’re the secret to elevating this simple recipe.
How to Store Leftovers (If You Have Any!)
This dish is so delicious you might not have any leftovers—but if you do, they’re easy to store. Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3–4 days. They make an excellent next-day lunch, and they reheat well, so you can enjoy the flavors all over again!
Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 Italian chicken sausage links (or plant-based sausage alternatives)
- 2 medium Autumn Glory apples cut into 1-inch wedges
- 2 fennel bulbs, fronds reserved cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- salt and pepper (add to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken sausage, apple wedges, and fennel wedges to the bowl, tossing to coat evenly.
- Arrange everything on a sheet pan, spreading out the sausage, apples, and fennel in a single layer.
- Drizzle any remaining dressing over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through and the apples and fennel are tender and caramelized.
- Garnish with reserved fennel fronds before serving.
