Chicken sausages are such a healthy staple to add into your weekly rotation. So if you’re wondering how to cook chicken sausages– this blog post will give you four methods to suit whatever appliances you have in the house. The result- perfectly cooked, tender chicken sausages, whipped up in a flash.
- Chicken sausage: appears extensively across all sources as the main subject
- Grill/grilling: appears throughout as the cooking method
- Temperature: mentioned frequently, especially 165°F as the safe internal temperature
- Cooking methods: direct and indirect grilling are mentioned multiple times
- Two-zone cooking: appears in multiple sources as a recommended technique
Now I’ll write the article incorporating these entities appropriately without explicitly listing their frequencies:
It may seem easy to grill chicken sausage, but there’s a trick to getting the perfect balance of juicy inside and crispy outside. I’ve ruined many sausages and had to order pizza more times than I’d like to admit, but I’ve finally mastered the technique. In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know to grill chicken sausage perfectly, from how to control the temperature to how long to cook it and some pro tips.
Why Choose Chicken Sausage?
Before we fire up the grill, let’s talk about why chicken sausage deserves a spot in your grilling rotation:
- Healthier option: Chicken sausage contains less fat and fewer calories than traditional pork sausage
- Flavorful variety: Available in countless flavor combinations from spicy to sweet
- Quick cooking: Generally cooks faster than other sausage varieties
- Versatility: Works great in sandwiches, pasta dishes, or as a standalone protein
Because chicken sausage has less fat than other sausages, it can dry out quickly if it’s not cooked right. But don’t worry, we’ll fix that!
Selecting the Right Chicken Sausage
Your grilling success starts at the store. Here’s what to look for:
Types of Chicken Sausage
- Fresh (raw): Requires thorough cooking to 165°F
- Pre-cooked: Only needs heating through
- Natural casing: Provides that satisfying “snap” when bitten
- Flavored varieties: Apple, spinach & feta, jalapeño, garlic & herb, etc.
Tip: If you can, get sausages made fresh at your local butcher instead of buying them already packaged. The quality difference is worth it!.
Preparing for Grilling Success
Before your sausages hit the grates, proper preparation is essential:
- Let sausages come to room temperature: About 15-20 minutes on the counter helps them cook more evenly
- Lightly oil the sausages: A small amount of olive oil prevents sticking
- Prepare your grill: Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them to prevent sticking
To Prick or Not to Prick?
There’s a longstanding debate about whether to prick sausage casings before grilling. Here’s my take:
- Against pricking: Creates openings where precious juices can escape
- For pricking: May prevent casings from bursting under pressure
Personally, I don’t prick my chicken sausages. Instead, I control temperature carefully to prevent bursting. However, if you’ve had issues with exploding sausages in the past, a few small pricks with a fork might be your solution.
Setting Up Your Grill: The Two-Zone Method
The secret to perfectly grilled chicken sausage is using a two-zone fire. This method gives you complete control over the cooking process:
Gas Grill Setup
- Turn one side of the grill to medium-high heat (around 350-400°F)
- Leave the other side completely off or on low
Charcoal Grill Setup
- Pile all coals on one side of the grill
- Leave the other side empty
This setup allows you to cook the sausages slowly using indirect heat, then finish them with a quick sear if desired.
How Long to Grill Chicken Sausage
Timing is everything when it comes to perfect chicken sausage. Here’s a general timeline:
| Sausage Type | Cooking Time | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Raw chicken sausage | 15-20 minutes | Indirect heat until 165°F |
| Pre-cooked chicken sausage | 8-10 minutes | Indirect heat until heated through |
Remember, these are just guidelines. The actual cooking time depends on several factors:
- Sausage thickness
- Starting temperature of the sausage
- Actual temperature of your grill
- Weather conditions (wind, cold temps)
Step-by-Step Grilling Process
Now let’s put everything together with a step-by-step guide:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F) using the two-zone setup
- Place sausages on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat)
- Close the lid and cook for about 8-10 minutes
- Turn the sausages and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes
- Check the internal temperature – it should reach 165°F for raw chicken sausage
- Optional: For more color, move sausages to the hot side for 1-2 minutes per side
- Remove from grill and rest for 5 minutes before serving
How to Know When Chicken Sausage is Done
Safety comes first when cooking chicken products. Here’s how to ensure your sausages are properly cooked:
Using a Meat Thermometer (Recommended)
Insert a digital meat thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage. The internal temperature should read 165°F for chicken sausage.
Visual Cues (Less Reliable)
If you don’t have a thermometer, look for:
- Clear juices when pierced (not pink)
- Firm texture throughout
- No pink meat visible when cut
I strongly recommend investing in a good digital thermometer. They’re inexpensive and take the guesswork out of grilling!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced grillers make these mistakes with chicken sausage:
- Using too much heat: High heat causes casings to burst and juices to escape
- Constantly flipping: Leave them alone! Too much handling releases juices
- Cutting into them while cooking: This releases the moisture you want to keep inside
- Not using a two-zone fire: Gives you no flexibility if they’re cooking too quickly
- Serving immediately: Sausages need to rest briefly to redistribute juices
Serving Suggestions
Grilled chicken sausage pairs wonderfully with so many sides and toppings. Some of my faves:
- On a toasted bun with sautéed peppers and onions
- Sliced and tossed with pasta and veggies
- Alongside grilled vegetables for a low-carb meal
- Cut into coins for an appetizer with various dipping sauces
- In a wrap with lettuce, tomato and light mayo
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Sausages are burning on the outside but raw inside
Solution: Your heat is too high. Close the lid and move them to the cooler side of the grill. Keep cooking them.
Problem: Sausages are bursting open
Solution: You’re either cooking at too high a temperature or the casing had air pockets. Use medium heat and consider pricking the casing lightly next time.
Problem: Sausages stick to the grill
Solution: Make sure your grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Also, don’t try to flip the sausages until they naturally release from the grates.
Problem: Sausages are dry
Solution: You’ve overcooked them. Use a meat thermometer to avoid this next time, and consider using the two-zone method for more control.
Storing Leftover Grilled Chicken Sausage
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days
- Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Gently warm in a microwave, skillet, or 300°F oven until heated through
Final Thoughts
Grilling chicken sausage is pretty straightforward once you understand the importance of temperature control and cooking method. The two-zone fire approach gives you incredible control over the process, and a good meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of doneness.
Remember, the key points for perfect chicken sausage are:
- Use a two-zone grilling setup
- Cook slowly over indirect heat
- Bring the internal temperature to 165°F
- Let the sausages rest before serving
Tips for the best result
- Allow the chicken sausages to cook a little longer if they won’t come off the grill or griddle pan without breaking.
- Don’t cook them too long. This is easier to do with chicken sausages because they are leaner because they are made from chicken breast instead of thighs. Once they reach 165°F/73°C, stop cooking them.
- Spray fry light on the food to spread the oil out evenly and keep the calories low. This will promote browning and flavor.
- Both the oven and the air fryer will clean up faster if you use foil.
Why you’ll love these methods
You don’t have to scroll all the way to the bottom to see which chicken sausage cooking methods win each category.
- Most of the time, pan-frying is the fastest way to cook chicken sausages. Depending on the size of the sausages, you can fry them in oil over medium to high heat.
- Tasteful: This is a matter of opinion, but I have to say that cooking on a griddle or BBQ does make food taste like summer, which makes me want to pick it as the winner. The most important thing to consider when choosing the best way to cook chicken sausages is how well they brown. Both the air fryer and pan-frying methods do this very well. Sorry oven!.
- The easiest way to cook sausages is to use an air fryer. All you have to do is put the sausages in the basket and turn them over halfway through the cooking time. You should use foil if you don’t like cleaning your air fryer basket. That’s all I have to say.
- Best for you: I use the least amount of oil when I air fry or bake, so these are the best ways to cook.
How To Grill Sausages The Right Way—Without Drying Them Out | Ray The Butcher
FAQ
How long should you grill chicken sausage?
Steps. Set grill to high heat. Brush the sausages with the oil. Grill sausages for 12–15 min. , rotating often, until cooked through.
How do you cook raw chicken sausage?
Cooking instructions: Any of the sausages can be grilled or baked @ 375 uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. OR pan-fry for about 25 minutes.
How long do you cook chicken sausages for?
To cook from fresh or defrosted: Take a castiron pan and bring to a medium heat. To the pan add a little ghee or lard, to lightly grease the pan. Add the sausages to the pan and roll around in the fat to caramalise them. Do this for around 10 minutes, or until all of the sausages are golden brown.
Can you cook chicken sausage on a grill?
You can cook grilled chicken sausages quickly on the grill or in a pan on the stove. Their pre-formed shape and short cook time make them very convenient for weeknight meals. You can also boil or poach chicken sausages if you want a low-fat cooking method.
Can You marinate chicken sausage before grilling?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken sausage in your favorite marinade before grilling for added flavor. However, be sure to pat it dry before placing it on the grill to ensure it cooks evenly. What kind of grill is best for cooking chicken sausage? A: Both charcoal and gas grills work well for cooking chicken sausage.
How do I choose the best chicken sausage for grilling?
Start by selecting high-quality chicken sausage for grilling. Look for sausages that are made with lean and tender chicken meat with your preferred seasonings. Whether you like them spicy, smoky, or with herbs, choose the flavor that tempts your taste buds. 2. Preheat the Grill.
What temperature should chicken sausage be cooked before grilling?
To ensure the chicken sausage is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F before it’s ready to be removed from the grill. Q: Can I marinate the chicken sausage before grilling?.
How do you cook sausage on a grill?
After the sausages have been prepared, it’s time to start the grilling process. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This will ensure that the sausages cook evenly and develop a nice outer char without burning. Place the sausages on the grill, making sure they are not too close together to allow for even cooking.
Can You Grill frozen chicken sausage?
Yes, you can grill frozen chicken sausages. However, it will take longer to cook compared to thawed sausages. Increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes and ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.