Perfectly Crispy Chicken Sausages in Air Fryer: A Complete Timing Guide

Ever stared at your package of chicken sausages wondering exactly how long to cook them in your air fryer? I’ve been there too! After countless experiments (and a few overcooked mishaps), I’ve mastered the art of perfectly air-fried chicken sausages. Today, I’m sharing everything you need to know about timing, temperature, and techniques to get juicy sausages with that satisfying crispy exterior.

Quick Answer: Chicken Sausage Air Fryer Cooking Time

For those in a hurry, here’s the quick answer: Cook chicken sausages in your air fryer at 360°F for 10-14 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time depends on sausage thickness and whether they’re raw or pre-cooked.

Now let’s dive into the details for perfect results every time!

Why Choose Chicken Sausage for Air Frying?

Before we get into the cooking process, let’s talk about why chicken sausage is such a great choice for air frying

• Healthier option: Chicken sausages typically have fewer calories and less fat than pork or beef alternatives
• Versatile flavors: Available in varieties like garlic, spinach, apple, and Italian herbs
• Quick cooking time: Perfect for busy weeknight dinners
• Less fat splatter: Chicken sausages have less fat than pork sausages, creating less mess in your air fryer

We’ve been making the switch to chicken sausages at home and honestly. the taste difference is minimal while the health benefits are significant!

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Chicken Sausages in Air Fryer

1. Preparation

Before you start cooking, here’s what you need to do:

• If using frozen sausages, thaw them completely in the refrigerator (usually takes about 24 hours)
• Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for about 3-5 minutes
• Make sure your air fryer is clean to prevent smoking (especially important with sausages!)

2. Arrange Sausages Properly

The key to evenly cooked sausages is proper arrangement:

• Place sausages in a single layer in your air fryer basket
• Leave space between each sausage for proper air circulation
• NEVER stack sausages on top of each other (this leads to uneven cooking)

3. Cook with Precision

Now for the actual cooking process

• Cook raw chicken sausages for 13-17 minutes at 360°F
• Cook pre-cooked chicken sausages for 8-10 minutes at 360°F
• Flip the sausages halfway through cooking (around 7 minutes for raw sausages)
• Check for doneness with a meat thermometer – internal temperature should reach 165°F

4. Rest and Serve

Don’t skip this important step:

• Allow sausages to rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking
• Serve hot with your favorite sides or on a bun with toppings

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Sausages

After making these regularly for my family, I’ve picked up some tricks that make a big difference:

1. Use a light spray of oil if you want extra crispy exteriors (though chicken sausages usually have enough natural fat)

2. Check early and often – air fryer models vary in cooking time, so start checking doneness around 10 minutes

3. Don’t prick the sausages before cooking – this allows them to retain their juicy goodness

4. Experiment with seasonings – try sprinkling with garlic powder, paprika or Italian herbs before cooking

5. Clean your air fryer after each use to prevent smoking the next time you cook

Common Questions About Air Frying Chicken Sausages

Can I cook frozen chicken sausages in the air fryer?

Yes, you can! If cooking from frozen, add about 3-5 minutes to the cooking time. However, thawed sausages will cook more evenly.

How do I know when chicken sausages are done?

The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. Visually, the sausages should be golden brown with a crisp exterior. When cut, the juices should run clear.

Can I cook different types of sausages together?

It’s best to cook similar-sized sausages together for even cooking. If mixing types, ensure they’re similar in thickness and arrange them so you can remove faster-cooking varieties earlier.

How many chicken sausages can I cook at once?

This depends on your air fryer size. The key is to arrange them in a single layer with space between each sausage. For most standard air fryers, that means 4-5 sausages per batch.

Delicious Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Chicken Sausages

Don’t just eat your sausages plain! Here are some yummy ways to enjoy them:

• Classic sausage roll: Serve on a toasted bun with mustard, ketchup, and sautéed onions
• Protein-packed salad topper: Slice and add to a fresh green salad
• Complete dinner: Pair with air fryer fingerling potatoes and cauliflower for a balanced meal
• Breakfast addition: Slice and add to a breakfast burrito with eggs and cheese
• Pasta enhancer: Cut into coins and toss with pasta and your favorite sauce

Storage and Reheating Tips

Made too many sausages? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
• Reheating in air fryer: 3-4 minutes at 350°F
• Reheating in microwave: 30-60 seconds (though this won’t maintain the crispy exterior)

Why Air Frying is the Best Method for Chicken Sausages

After trying various cooking methods, I’m convinced air frying is superior for chicken sausages because:

1. Even cooking: The circulating hot air cooks sausages uniformly
2. Perfect texture: Crispy outside, juicy inside
3. Healthier option: Uses minimal oil compared to pan-frying
4. No monitoring needed: Unlike grilling, no need to constantly watch and turn
5. No risk of burning: Unlike on the stovetop where sausages can quickly go from perfect to burnt

Final Thoughts

Cooking chicken sausages in the air fryer is one of those simple techniques that delivers big results. The timing is straightforward – 10-14 minutes at 360°F, flipping halfway through – but the results are consistently delicious. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or prepping protein for meals throughout the week, air fryer chicken sausages are a reliable, tasty option.

We’ve made these at least twice a week in our household, and they never disappoint. The combination of convenience, health benefits, and perfect texture makes this cooking method unbeatable.

Have you tried cooking chicken sausages in your air fryer? What’s your favorite variety or serving style? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear about your experiences!

Happy air frying!