Chicken Breakfast Sausage
If you’re looking for a healthy, protein-packed way to kick-start your mornings, chicken breakfast sausage might just be your new best friend. Unlike traditional pork sausage, it’s leaner, lighter, and still incredibly delicious. But why is it becoming so popular? Well, it’s got everything: great taste, fewer calories, and a ton of versatility.
Whether you prefer to make it from scratch at home or grab a store-bought option, there’s plenty to explore about chicken breakfast sausage. This guide will walk you through how to make it, the best brands to buy, tasty recipes, common cooking mistakes, and much more!
What Is Chicken Breakfast Sausage?
At its core, chicken breakfast sausage is simply ground chicken mixed with seasonings and spices. It’s usually formed into patties or links and cooked up for a tasty morning meal.
Unlike pork sausage, which is high in saturated fats, chicken sausage offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. Depending on the recipe, it can be spicy, sweet, herby, or smoky making it a perfect companion to eggs, toast, or even breakfast burritos!
“Chicken breakfast sausage is the guilt-free way to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite without worrying about excess fat and calories.”
Why Choose Chicken Over Pork?
So, why are more and more people making the switch from pork to chicken? Let’s break it down:
| Feature | Chicken Sausage | Pork Sausage |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Lower | Higher |
| Fat Content | Leaner | Higher in Saturated Fat |
| Protein | High | High |
| Cholesterol | Lower | Higher |
| Versatility | Mild, adaptable flavors | Strong, bold flavors |
| Health Benefits | Lean protein, heart-friendly | Higher in unhealthy fats |
Chicken sausage is perfect for people looking to eat healthier while still enjoying classic breakfast flavors. Plus, it works great for those following low-fat, high-protein, keto, or Whole30 diets!
The Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage
One of the biggest reasons to switch to chicken breakfast sausage is its nutritional value.
High in Protein: Protein is the building block of muscles and metabolism. One serving of chicken sausage can give you 10-15g of protein.
Lower in Fat: While pork sausage is often packed with unhealthy saturated fats, chicken sausage offers a leaner alternative, helping you maintain a heart-healthy diet.
Packed with Vitamins & Minerals: Chicken sausage is often fortified with B vitamins (B6, B12, niacin) that help with energy production and brain function.
| Nutritional Breakdown (per 2-ounce chicken sausage patty) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~12-15g |
| Fat | ~5-7g |
| Saturated Fat | ~1-2g |
| Carbohydrates | 0-2g |
| Sodium | ~400-600mg |
| Iron | ~6% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin B12 | ~10% of Daily Value |
“Choosing chicken sausage is a small change that can make a big impact on your overall health.”
How to Make Chicken Breakfast Sausage at Home
Nothing beats the taste of homemade chicken breakfast sausage. Not only is it healthier than store-bought versions, but you can also customize the flavors just the way you like.
Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Sausage
To make your own juicy, flavorful chicken breakfast sausage, you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Chicken (Preferably Thigh Meat) | 1 lb (450g) |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked Paprika | ½ tsp |
| Dried Sage | 1 tsp |
| Fennel Seeds (Optional) | ½ tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper (For Spicy Kick) | ¼ tsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Maple Syrup (For Sweetness) | 1 tbsp |
| Olive Oil (For Cooking) | 1 tbsp |
Pro Tip: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a juicier sausage since thigh meat has a bit more natural fat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with all the spices. Add the maple syrup (or honey if you prefer) for a slight touch of sweetness. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons each) and form small, flat patties. If you prefer sausage links, you can roll them into cylinder shapes.
Step 3: Cook the Sausages
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the sausage patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
Alternative Cooking Methods:
- Oven-Baked: Place on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air-Fried: Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes for a crispy exterior.
“Freshly cooked chicken sausage is juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein perfect for a power-packed breakfast!”
Tips for Perfectly Juicy and Flavorful Sausage
Use Dark Meat: Chicken thighs have more fat, making your sausage juicier.
Don’t Overmix: Overworking the meat can make the sausage tough and dry.
Cook at Medium Heat: High heat burns the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
Let It Rest: Allow the cooked sausage to rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.
Best Store-Bought Chicken Breakfast Sausages
Not everyone has time to make their own chicken breakfast sausage from scratch and that’s okay! There are plenty of store-bought options that taste great and offer healthier alternatives to traditional pork sausage.
Top Brands to Consider
If you’re shopping for high-quality chicken breakfast sausages, here are some of the best brands to look for:
| Brand | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| Applegate Naturals | Organic, nitrate-free, no preservatives |
| Bilinski’s | Antibiotic-free, gluten-free, all-natural ingredients |
| Aidells | Gourmet flavors, fully cooked, no artificial ingredients |
| Al Fresco | Lower in fat, lean protein, no MSG |
| Jones Dairy Farm | Paleo-friendly, sugar-free options available |
How to Choose a Healthy and Tasty Option
Check the Ingredients List: Avoid sausages with preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive sodium.
Look for Nitrate-Free & Antibiotic-Free Labels: These are usually better-quality products with minimal additives.
Choose Uncooked Over Pre-Cooked (If Possible): Uncooked versions tend to be fresher and taste better when cooked at home.
Check the Sodium Content: Some store-bought sausages can have over 600mg of sodium per serving! Look for lower-sodium options.
“When buying store-bought sausage, always read the label! The fewer ingredients, the better.”
Delicious Chicken Breakfast Sausage Recipes
One of the best things about chicken breakfast sausage is its versatility. You can enjoy it in so many ways—whether it’s on the side of scrambled eggs or inside a breakfast burrito. Here are a few of the best recipes to try!
1. Classic Chicken Sausage and Eggs 🍳
A simple, protein-packed breakfast that never fails.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken sausage patties (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ avocado (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the chicken sausage in a pan over medium heat until golden brown.
In the same pan, crack the eggs and cook them sunny-side up (or scrambled).
Serve with sliced avocado for extra healthy fats.
“Simple, quick, and high in protein this breakfast will keep you full for hours!”
2. Chicken Sausage Breakfast Burrito 🌯
A hearty, grab-and-go breakfast perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole wheat tortilla
- 1 chicken sausage link (sliced)
- 2 scrambled eggs
- ¼ cup shredded cheese
- ¼ cup sautéed bell peppers
- 1 tbsp salsa
Instructions:
Cook the sausage & veggies until golden brown.
Scramble the eggs and mix with the sausage.
Place everything in a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll it up.
Warm it in a pan for a crispy texture.
“Tasty, filling, and easy to customize! Add spinach or avocado for even more nutrients.”
3. Chicken Sausage and Veggie Hash 🥔
A low-carb, nutrient-dense meal that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken sausage patties (crumbled)
- 1 sweet potato (diced)
- ½ onion (chopped)
- ½ bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the sweet potatoes until soft.
Add onions, bell peppers, and chicken sausage, and cook until golden brown.
Serve with a fried egg on top for extra protein.
“Sweet potatoes and chicken sausage are a match made in heaven!“
Common Problems and Solutions When Cooking Chicken Sausage
Even though chicken sausage is easy to cook, some common mistakes can ruin the texture and flavor. Here’s how to fix them!
1. Why Is My Chicken Sausage Dry? (And How to Fix It!)
The Problem: Chicken sausage can dry out easily because it’s leaner than pork.
The Solution: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for more fat. Also, avoid overcooking 165°F (75°C) is the perfect temperature.
“A little bit of extra fat goes a long way don’t be afraid to use olive oil or butter!“
2. How to Prevent Sausage from Sticking to the Pan
The Problem: The sausage sticks and breaks apart while cooking.
The Solution: Use a non-stick pan or add a little oil before cooking. Also, don’t flip too soon—let the sausage develop a crust first!
“Patience is key! Let the sausage brown before flipping.“
3. How to Store and Reheat Chicken Sausage Properly
The Problem: Leftover sausage loses flavor or becomes too dry when reheated.
The Solution: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a low-heat pan with a splash of water to keep moisture in.
“Reheating in the microwave? Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out!“
Chicken Breakfast Sausage for Different Diets
Chicken sausage works well with many different diets whether you’re keto, paleo, or just looking for a healthier breakfast option.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options
- Look for sausages that don’t contain fillers or milk-based additives.
- Brands like Applegate and Bilinski’s offer clean, allergen-free choices.
Low-Calorie and High-Protein Choices
- Stick to homemade or lean store-bought options with minimal fat.
- Avoid sausages with added sugar or excessive sodium.
Paleo, Keto, and Whole30 Compliant Sausages
- Paleo & Keto: Look for low-carb, no-sugar sausages.
- Whole30: Stick to brands that use only real spices and whole ingredients.
“No matter what your diet is, there’s a way to enjoy chicken breakfast sausage!“
Conclusion: Making Chicken Breakfast Sausage Part of Your Routine
At this point, you’re fully equipped to enjoy chicken breakfast sausage in all its forms whether it’s homemade, store-bought, in a burrito, or part of a healthy hash!
Healthier than pork without sacrificing flavor.
Easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
Perfect for any diet, from keto to Whole30.
Versatile & delicious there’s a recipe for everyone!
“Start your mornings the right way with a plate full of flavor, protein, and health benefits!“