Chicken Sausage and Peppers with Sweet Potato "Dirty Rice"
Try this Chicken Sausage and Peppers with Sweet Potato “Dirty Rice” recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Chicken Sausage and Peppers with Sweet Potato “Dirty Rice” recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- chopped parsley to garnish
- 2 medium sweet potatoes peeled, blade d
- 9-10 ounces (about 4 small links) chicken sausages sliced into 1/2†chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper chopped into 1/2†chunks
- 1 red bell pepper chopped into 1/2†chunks
- 2 celery ribs diced
- 1/2 cup chopped red onions
- 1 tablespoon + 1/2 cup chicken broth low sodium + more if needed
- Carbohydrate 19.3441912484335 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.95841874992647 g
- Fiber 4.07103748699229 g
- Protein 2.262964999657 g
- Saturated Fat 0.295238999982439 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (157g)
- Sodium 80.7796432223238 mg
- Sugar 15.2731537614412 g
- Trans Fat 0.155134624983343 g
- Calories 100 calories
Step-by-step
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add in the olive oil.
- Once oil heats, add in the sausage, peppers and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until peppers soften and sausage is browned.
- Meanwhile, place the sweet potato noodles into a food processor and pulse until rice-like and set aside.
- Once the meat is browned, transfer to a plate with peppers and then let skillet cool down for 1 minute and then add in the garlic, celery and onions to the skillet.
- Let cook for 30 seconds and then add in the tablespoon of the chicken broth.
- Let vegetables cook for 2-3 minutes or until onions are translucent and then add in the tomato paste.
- Stir for 1 minute or until tomato paste coats the vegetables.
- Then, add in the sweet potato “rice,” oregano and paprika and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir to combine and let cook for 1 minute.
- Then, add in the chicken broth, stir again and let cook, covered, for 5 minutes, uncovering occasionally to stir.
- If the rice starts to stick to the bottom of the pan, add more chicken broth by the tablespoon.
- Then, add in the sausage and peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until sweet potato rice is cooked through.
- Once done, add in the parsley, stir to mix and then transfer to a serving bowl or individual bowls and enjoy.
A Busy Mom's Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner often feels impossible. But I refuse to compromise on nourishing my family with good food, so I've learned to embrace quick, easy recipes that don't sacrifice flavor. This Chicken Sausage and Peppers with Sweet Potato "Dirty Rice" is a perfect example. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, and it's so flavorful that even my picky eaters clean their plates!
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. I often adapt it based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Other times, I swap out the chicken sausage for Italian sausage or even ground turkey for a leaner option. The sweet potato "rice" is a game-changer, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional rice. It's surprisingly easy to make – just pulse cooked sweet potatoes in a food processor until they resemble rice.
This recipe isn't just a quick weeknight dinner; it's a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to suit your taste. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick, while a sprinkle of fresh basil brightens up the flavors. The possibilities are endless! I often double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day, saving me even more precious time. So, if you're a busy mom like me, looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that the whole family will love, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Ingredients That Make This Dish Sing
Chicken Sausage: I prefer mild chicken sausage, but feel free to use your favorite variety. Spicy Italian sausage would add a delicious kick!
Bell Peppers: The vibrant colors of red and yellow bell peppers not only add visual appeal but also a delightful sweetness.
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and their naturally sweet flavor complements the savory sausage and peppers perfectly.
Garlic, Celery, and Onions: This classic trio forms the aromatic base of the dish, adding depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
Tomato Paste: A small amount of tomato paste adds a wonderful umami depth that balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Oregano and Paprika: These warm spices add a layer of comforting and earthy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices such as cumin, chili powder or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is used to keep the dish light and flavorful. It helps to create a slightly saucy consistency without being too heavy.
Fresh Parsley: A final sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and vibrancy.
Tips and Tricks for Success
Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. You can even cook the sweet potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the sausage and peppers, as this can prevent them from browning properly.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Salt and pepper are crucial to bringing out the best flavors in this dish. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A pinch of sugar can also help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Leftover Magic: This dish is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.
Variations are Welcome: Get creative! Add other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Try different types of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo. Experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect flavor combination.
Beyond the Dinner Table: This Recipe's Versatility
This isn't just a weeknight dinner; it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted for various occasions. It's perfect for a potluck, a casual get-together with friends, or even a simple lunch. The leftovers are fantastic in a quesadilla or burrito bowl. The possibilities are truly endless. Its simplicity makes it a great recipe to teach kids in the kitchen, encouraging them to experiment with different flavors and textures while learning valuable cooking skills. Furthermore, this recipe is easily adaptable to dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with firm tofu or mushrooms. It's a recipe that can grow with your family and adapt to your changing needs.
