There’s something magical about the shift into fall, the golden leaves, crisp air, and that comforting scent of cinnamon and wood smoke. This is the season I crave cozy meals that are simple yet packed with flavor. And that’s where Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers come in. These skewers are one of my most requested recipes, especially as the holidays approach.
Ciao! I’m Sam, a Tuscan born chef turned U.S. local, and this is one of my go-to fall dishes on GoldenGlutenFree.com. Inspired by both my Italian roots and my love of seasonal American flavors, this recipe delivers on all fronts, sweet, savory, easy to make, and totally gluten free. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping ahead for a gathering, this dish is fall comfort on a stick.
Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- knife
- cutting board
- baking sheet or grill
- skewers bamboo or metal
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken apple sausage, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady), cubed
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- salt and black pepper to taste
- bamboo or metal skewers
- optional maple syrup for drizzling
- whole grain mustard for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Cut sausage, apples, onion, and pepper into even pieces. If using bamboo skewers, soak in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a large bowl, toss sausage and vegetables with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Thread onto skewers, alternating ingredients for even cooking.
- Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, or roast at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when sausage edges are browned and apples are tender.
- Optional: Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving or offer whole grain mustard on the side for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers
Let’s talk ingredients. These skewers are all about balance, sweet apples, smoky sausage, and that hint of rosemary that brings it all together. You don’t need a lot, but choosing high quality, whole food options will make a big difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken apple sausage (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 crisp apples (like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady), cored and cubed
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Bamboo or metal skewers
Optional (but delicious) add ons:
- A drizzle of maple syrup before serving
- Whole grain mustard for dipping
If you’re planning on feeding a crowd, double up! This recipe scales beautifully and works great alongside Avocado Deviled Eggs or Cucumber Cups with Herbed Cream Cheese for a fully balanced gluten free appetizer table.
How to Make Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers (Step by Step)
Ready to cook? These skewers come together in about 30 minutes, making them a stress-free option for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by cutting your sausage, apples, onions, and peppers into roughly equal pieces. This helps them cook evenly on the grill or in the oven. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 2: Season and Assemble
In a large bowl, toss your cut sausage and veggies with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Then thread them onto skewers, alternate pieces for a pretty presentation and even cooking.
Step 3: Cook
You can either:
- Grill them on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, OR
- Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping once halfway.
They’re ready when the edges of the sausage are browned and the apples are tender.
Pair these skewers with a side like Mini Polenta Cakes with Mushroom Ragu or serve over wild rice or roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying fall meal.
Tips for Success with Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers
You don’t need chef training to nail this recipe, but a few small details go a long way. Here’s how to make sure yours turn out perfect every time:
- Pick the right apple: Use a firm apple that won’t turn mushy during cooking, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Fuji are excellent.
- Uniform cuts: Try to cut everything into similarly sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overstack: Leave a tiny bit of space between ingredients on the skewer to allow heat to circulate.
- Use a baking rack: If roasting, place skewers on a wire rack over your baking sheet for better air flow and caramelization.
Make these ahead, refrigerate uncooked skewers for up to 1 day, then pop them into the oven right before serving.
Variations You’ll Love
This recipe is a fantastic base. Once you’ve tried it the classic way, feel free to mix things up:
Gluten Free and Paleo Friendly:
Use certified gluten free sausage (many are naturally gluten free, but double check the label). For paleo diets, go with a nitrate free, sugar free sausage and skip the maple drizzle.
Add a Sweet Touch:
For a slightly sweeter finish, brush with a bit of maple syrup or honey before cooking. It caramelizes beautifully!
Streusel Inspired Topping:
Want something fun and creative? Combine crushed pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, then lightly coat the apples with this mix before threading. It gives a dessert meets savory twist.
Looking for more easy protein packed meals? Check out Quick Gluten-Free Chicken Stir Fry or Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
These skewers keep surprisingly well. Here’s how to store and reheat them like a pro:
Storage:
- Refrigerate cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze (uncooked) assembled skewers flat in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F for 10–12 minutes
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes (they stay juicier in the oven though)
Pair reheated skewers with a side of Roasted Salmon and Quinoa for a balanced leftover lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sausage is best for Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers?
Use pre cooked or smoked chicken apple sausage. Brands like Applegate or Aidells are good options, but choose what suits your dietary needs best.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the skewers the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Cook when ready to serve.
What’s the best cooking method, grilling or baking?
Both work well. Grilling gives a smoky char, while baking makes it easy for batch cooking. Choose based on the occasion.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace sausage with marinated tofu or veggie sausage, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same.
Conclusion
These Chicken Apple Sausage Skewers are fall wrapped up on a stick, sweet, savory, and always a hit. Whether you’re feeding family, meal prepping, or hosting a gathering, this is one of those cozy recipes that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Give them a try and let the aromas of rosemary, apple, and sausage turn your kitchen into an autumn haven. And if you love this recipe, you’ll probably enjoy my Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken too.