Butternut Squash, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Quinoa Skillet

Short Description
This hearty and nutritious Butternut Squash, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Quinoa Skillet is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. With tender quinoa, roasted butternut squash, chicken sausage, and earthy kale, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. Drizzled with a maple-apple cider vinaigrette and topped with dried cherries and goat cheese, it makes for a satisfying and delicious one-pan meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet dish is a true fall-inspired comfort meal. The sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the savory chicken sausage and the vibrant kale. Quinoa adds texture and protein, while the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar dressing creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, nutrient-dense, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it vegetarian or vegan by omitting a few ingredients, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 12 ounces chicken sausage links (apple chicken sausage recommended), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups chopped Tuscan kale (about 6 stems)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup dried cherries
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese
• Additional chopped sage for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash: Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, toss to coat, and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the squash is soft and slightly caramelized.
3. Cook the quinoa: While the squash roasts, combine 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the water. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
4. Cook the sausage and kale: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chicken sausage. Cook until the onion begins to soften and the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped kale, minced garlic, and sage, and cook until the kale is wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Combine the quinoa, squash, and skillet mixture: Once the squash and quinoa are done, add them to the skillet with the sausage and kale. Stir everything to combine. If the skillet is too small, you can transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
6. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and a little olive oil (optional). Drizzle the dressing over the quinoa mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top and garnish: Top the skillet mixture with dried cherries, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped sage.
8. Serve: Enjoy warm and dig into this delicious and hearty skillet meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes (includes roasting and cooking time)
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken sausage and add more beans (like white beans or chickpeas) or additional vegetables for protein.
• Vegan Version: Omit both the chicken sausage and goat cheese, and add a plant-based protein, such as tempeh or tofu.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add extra maple syrup or roasted sweet potatoes along with the squash.
• Cheese Swap: Feta cheese works as a great substitute for goat cheese if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover quinoa skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the quinoa and roast the butternut squash ahead of time. Just combine everything in the skillet when you’re ready to finish cooking.

2. Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, pork sausage, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your preference.

3. Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works fine in this recipe. You may need to cook it for an additional 5-10 minutes to get it to the desired tenderness.

4. What if I don’t have Tuscan kale?

If you can’t find Tuscan kale, regular curly kale or even spinach would work as great substitutes in this dish.

5. Can I make this recipe without quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with other grains like brown rice, farro, or couscous if preferred.

6. How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño while cooking the sausage and onion for a spicy kick.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked quinoa skillet. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.

8. Can I use fresh sage instead of dried sage?

Yes, fresh sage works perfectly in this recipe. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh sage for every ½ teaspoon of dried sage.

9. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.

10. How can I adjust the texture of this dish?

For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of coconut milk or heavy cream after combining the ingredients. You could also add a little cheese if you like a richer texture.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash, Chicken Sausage, and Kale Quinoa Skillet is a deliciously healthy, hearty meal that combines rich flavors and textures in a single pan. The roasted squash, savory sausage, and tender kale make for a satisfying dish, while the maple-apple cider vinaigrette brings a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted for different dietary preferences and is perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner.

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