Brazilian Sausage Sandwich (chicken) Recipe

Prep sausages

If chicken sausage is in casings and you prefer slices, remove casings and slice into 1/2-inch rounds. If already skinless, slice into 1/2-inch rounds or leave whole.

Heat pan

Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Brown sausage

Add the sausage pieces (or whole links) in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes without moving to get color, then stir and cook another 2–3 minutes until nicely browned and heated through. Remove sausages to a plate and set aside.

Sauté vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet. Add sliced onion and red bell pepper and cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and starting to caramelize.

Add garlic and spices

Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and cumin and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Combine sausage and tomato

Return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the diced tomato (if using). Stir to combine and cook 2–3 minutes for the tomato to soften and the flavors to meld. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.

Finish filling

Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley and lime juice. Remove from heat and keep warm while you prepare bread and toppings.

Prepare rolls

Preheat broiler or a grill pan to medium-high if toasting. Slice rolls lengthwise leaving a hinge if desired. Spread butter or mayonnaise on cut surfaces.

Toast bread

Place rolls under the broiler or on a hot grill pan, cut side up, for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Assemble sandwiches

Lay a lettuce leaf or a small handful of shredded cabbage on the bottom of each roll. Spoon a generous portion of the sausage-and-vegetable filling into each roll (about 1 equivalent of sausage per sandwich). Top with a slice of cheese if using, and add pickled jalapeños or banana peppers to taste.

Finish and serve

Close the sandwiches and press gently. If you prefer melted cheese, place assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 30–60 seconds to melt. Serve immediately with extra chimichurri-style sauce or lime wedges on the side.

While the filling is cooking (or ahead of time), combine the chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well and let sit 5–10 minutes for flavors to marry. Spoon over sandwiches to taste.