Easy Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
Are you searching for a meal that’s both incredibly quick and packed with flavor? Look no further than this delightful Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash. While a traditional “hash” might immediately bring potatoes to mind, this modern take swaps them for wholesome rice, creating a lighter yet equally satisfying dish. It’s the kind of recipe that embodies convenience and customization, allowing you to transform simple pantry staples into a vibrant, family-friendly dinner in under 20 minutes.
The beauty of a hash-style recipe lies in its adaptability. It’s a culinary canvas where creativity thrives. Think of your pantry and freezer as a treasure trove – whatever vegetables or seasonings you have on hand can find a happy home in this skillet. There are no strict rules, just delicious possibilities. This means less stress about specific ingredients and more freedom to create a meal tailored to your taste buds and what’s available. And for those busy parents, here’s an extra bonus: this entire dish is so straightforward, you can comfortably prepare it even with a toddler playfully tugging at your leg and an infant happily nestled on your hip. It truly is that easy!
The Heart of the Dish: Wholesome Chicken Sausage and Speedy Ready Rice
This recipe originated from an exciting challenge: to craft a delicious meal using Johnsonville’s Better-For-You Chicken Sausage and Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice. The moment these two powerhouse ingredients were presented, the vision for a comforting and quick hash immediately came to mind. My choice for this particular recipe was the 3 Cheese Italian Style Chicken Sausage, a fantastic option that brings a savory, aromatic foundation to the dish.
Johnsonville’s Better-For-You Chicken Sausage is a game-changer for quick meals. One of its standout features is that it comes fully cooked, which significantly slashes preparation time. You’re not cooking raw meat; you’re simply warming it through and allowing it to develop a lovely sear. Beyond the convenience, it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, offering a lean protein source without compromising on flavor. The 3 Cheese Italian Style variety, with its blend of cheeses and Italian seasonings, infuses the entire hash with a rich, complex taste that complements the rice and vegetables beautifully.
Complementing the chicken sausage is Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice, another star in the realm of speedy cooking. This ingenious product allows you to have perfectly cooked rice in just 90 seconds! This feature alone makes it an invaluable ingredient for busy weeknights, transforming what could be a lengthy cooking process into a blink-and-you-miss-it step. Opting for a whole grain variety, such as brown rice, further boosts the nutritional profile of this meal, adding fiber and essential nutrients that contribute to a well-balanced diet. Together, these two ingredients form the backbone of a meal that is both incredibly fast and delightfully wholesome.
The Magic of a Poached Egg: A Saucy Elevation
Here’s a little secret for elevating this hash from great to absolutely extraordinary: crown it with a perfectly poached egg. While I wouldn’t describe myself as an avid egg enthusiast, there’s something truly magical about the way a soft-poached egg, with its runny yolk, transforms a savory dish. It acts as a natural, rich, and incredibly luxurious sauce, coating every bite of the chicken sausage and rice with an unparalleled creaminess. The vibrant yellow yolk breaks and melds with the savory components, creating a depth of flavor that’s utterly irresistible.
Don’t be intimidated by poaching eggs! It might seem like a gourmet technique, but it’s surprisingly simple to master with a few key steps. All you need is a pot of simmering water, a splash of vinegar (to help the whites set), and fresh eggs. Gently crack an egg into a small bowl, create a gentle swirl in the simmering water, and carefully slide the egg in. Cook for 2-4 minutes, depending on your desired yolk consistency, then lift out with a slotted spoon. For a comprehensive guide with visual aids, you can always refer to detailed tutorials like the one on WikiHow. Once you experience the delightful “saucy” flavor it adds to this hash, you might find yourself poaching eggs on top of many more meals!
Customization is Key: Make This Hash Truly Your Own
One of the most appealing aspects of this Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash is its incredible versatility. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages improvisation, making it ideal for using up whatever vegetables you have on hand or adapting to seasonal produce. While the core ingredients of chicken sausage and rice provide a fantastic base, the addition of fresh vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds layers of texture and flavor.
Vegetable Power-Ups
Feel free to experiment with a wide array of vegetables. Beyond the suggested peppers, onions, and broccoli, consider these delicious additions:
- Spinach or Kale: Wilt in a generous handful at the end of cooking for an extra dose of greens.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or shiitake) with the sausage for an earthy umami flavor.
- Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Dice and add with the other vegetables for a fresh, slightly sweet element.
- Corn or Peas: Frozen corn or peas can be tossed in during the last few minutes to warm through, adding a pop of sweetness and color.
- Asparagus: Cut into bite-sized pieces and sauté for a few minutes until tender-crisp.
- Carrots: Finely diced carrots add a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients.
The beauty is that most vegetables will cook down nicely in the skillet alongside the sausage and aromatics. Just remember to add harder vegetables (like carrots or bell peppers) earlier and softer ones (like spinach) towards the end.
Beyond the 3 Cheese Italian Style
While the 3 Cheese Italian Style Chicken Sausage is fantastic, Johnsonville offers a variety of other flavors that would work wonderfully in this hash. Explore options like their Applewood Smoked Chicken Sausage for a touch of sweetness, or the Green Chile Chipotle for a smoky, spicy kick. You could even swap chicken sausage for a different lean protein like turkey sausage, or if you prefer a vegetarian version, hearty plant-based sausages could be a great substitute, though cooking times might vary.
Flavor Boosters & Toppings
To further personalize your hash, think about additional flavor enhancers and toppings:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley (as suggested), cilantro, or chives just before serving brightens the dish.
- Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or a Mexican blend after plating adds extra richness.
- Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For those who enjoy a little heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce is perfect.
- Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado on top adds a creamy, healthy fat component.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop can add a tangy, cooling contrast.
Quick & Easy Preparation: Dinner on the Table in Under 20 Minutes
The true genius of this Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash lies in its astonishing speed. Thanks to the pre-cooked nature of the chicken sausage and the rapid preparation of Uncle Ben’s Ready Rice, you can have a hot, nutritious, and delicious meal on the table in less than 20 minutes. This makes it an absolute lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when time is a luxury you simply don’t have.
The process is incredibly streamlined. You start by heating the olive oil in a skillet, then add the sliced chicken sausage to get a nice, light sear and warm it through. While the sausage is warming, you quickly add in your chosen aromatics like garlic and green onions, along with any other vegetables you plan to include. These sauté gently, softening and releasing their flavors. In parallel, your ready rice is in the microwave, heating up in a mere 90 seconds. If you’re adding a poached egg, that can be prepared simultaneously as the vegetables simmer. Finally, everything comes together in the skillet – the fluffy rice mixed with the savory sausage and tender-crisp vegetables. A quick stir, a dollop of poached egg, and a garnish of fresh herbs, and dinner is served!
This efficient workflow means less time hovering over the stove and more time enjoying your evening. It’s a testament to how smart ingredient choices and a simple cooking method can yield incredibly satisfying results, making healthy eating accessible even on your busiest days. Enjoy the ease and the incredible taste!
Disclosure: I am a blog ambassador for Johnsonville; however, all thoughts, recipe, and opinions are my own.
Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash
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Ingredients
- 1 Package Johnsonville 3 Italian Cheese Chicken Sausage Sliced
- 1 8.8 Oz Package Uncle Ben’s Whole Grain Brown Ready Rice
- 1/4 Cup Olive Oil
- 1 Clove Garlic Crushed
- 6 Green Onions Diced
- Optional: Bell Peppers Broccoli, Various Veggies
- 2 Poached Eggs
- Parsley to taste
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
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Begin by heating the olive oil in the skillet along with the sausage. Next, add in the garlic, onions, and veggies into the skillet. Let this simmer for 10 minutes.
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While this is simmering heat up the ready rice based on the instructions on the package.
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Then, prepare your poached egg. If you have never poached an egg please see link in the blog post.
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Once the rice is done add it into the sausage skillet mixture. Mix the sausage and rice well and then place a serving on a plate.
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Top with a poached egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Servings: 2
Nutrition
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Beyond the Plate: Serving and Storage Tips
This Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash is a wonderfully complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. A slice of crusty bread or garlic knots can also be a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any of that luscious poached egg yolk. For an extra touch of zest, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving can brighten all the flavors.
Making the Most of Leftovers
One of the best things about hash recipes is how well they typically hold up as leftovers. This chicken sausage and rice hash is no exception. Allow any remaining portions to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave. If reheating in a skillet, you might add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. A fresh poached egg on top can revive the dish beautifully, making leftovers feel just as special as the original meal. You can even repurpose the hash into breakfast burritos or a quick frittata for another meal idea!
Why Choose Healthy Chicken Sausage for Your Meals?
Opting for chicken sausage in your recipes, particularly the “Better-For-You” varieties like Johnsonville’s, is a smart choice for a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Traditional pork sausage can often be high in saturated fat and sodium, which, while delicious, might not align with health-conscious eating habits for everyday meals. Chicken sausage, on the other hand, typically offers a leaner profile, providing a good source of protein with less fat and often reduced sodium content.
Beyond the nutritional benefits, pre-cooked chicken sausage adds incredible convenience to your kitchen routine. It eliminates the need for lengthy cooking or concerns about raw meat handling, making it an ideal ingredient for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any time you need to get food on the table fast. Its versatility in flavor—from Italian style to applewood smoked or spicy—means it can adapt to a wide range of cuisines and recipe ideas, ensuring your healthy meals are anything but boring. Incorporating chicken sausage into dishes like this hash makes it easy to enjoy satisfying, flavorful meals that support your wellness goals.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To for Quick, Flavorful Meals
This Chicken Sausage & Rice Hash stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and adaptable meal. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined, can create something truly special. From its lightning-fast preparation to the endless possibilities for customization, and the surprising luxury of a poached egg, this recipe is designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a student looking for a nutritious meal, or simply someone who appreciates efficiency in the kitchen, this hash delivers on all fronts. Embrace the flexibility, savor the flavors, and enjoy the satisfaction of a wholesome, homemade meal ready in minutes. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with your favorite vegetables and toppings, and discover your own perfect version of this delightful chicken sausage and rice hash. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to simplify your cooking without compromising on taste or quality.
Need more recipe ideas? Check out the Recipe Index by Mommy Hates Cooking.