Chicken Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

One key to successful weight loss is preparing delicious meals that are quick and easy, yet feel like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. This Chicken Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet is a perfect example of that principle. It’s a satisfying dish that captures the warm-hearted flavors of fall with just a handful of simple ingredients. Keep in mind, not all sausages are created equal, so be sure to choose brands that are free from additives and preservatives, and where the animals are raised properly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet dish is not only simple to make, but it also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. The combination of savory chicken sausage, sweet apples, and hearty cabbage creates a delightful balance of tastes and textures that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Recipe Breakdown

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 package (5 links) Al Fresco Sweet Italian or Hot Italian Chicken Sausage, sliced into coins
• 1 Tbsp. virgin coconut or avocado oil (plus more if needed)
• 1 medium red or yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, coarsely chopped (approximately 8 cups) or use 2 (14 oz) packages of shredded cabbage
• 2 organic Granny Smith apples, quartered and cut into thin slices
• 2 Tbsp. Bragg’s apple cider vinegar (optional but highly recommended)
• Pink Himalayan salt and black pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper, to taste (optional)

Directions:

1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the coconut or avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned on both sides, achieving a nice caramel color for added flavor. If necessary, reduce the heat to prevent burning. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and keep it warm.

2. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes brown and tender, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

3. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the chopped cabbage. If the mixture seems dry, feel free to add a little more oil. Mix everything well and cook until the cabbage is nearly tender.

4. Add the Apples:
Stir in the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples, sautéing until the apples are tender but not mushy.

5. Season and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar. Season with pink Himalayan salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using) to taste.

Serve this Chicken Sausage, Cabbage, and Apple Skillet warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall! It makes for a great main meal, accompanied by a side salad or on its own for a deliciously filling dish. This recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite in your household! Enjoy!