Chicken sausage has always had a place in my kitchen, starting from my childhood just outside Austin, Texas. I grew up in a home where laughter, simple meals, and shared flavors made life brighter. My very first patties were shaped with my mom, proving that ground chicken could turn into something comforting and special. Cooking quickly became my escape, a way to bring joy even on busy days. Today, chicken sausage remains my favorite quick, wholesome recipe that’s both versatile and healthy. Whether for breakfast, dinner, or meal prep, it’s proof that simple food can still taste amazing.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What is Chicken Sausage Made Of?
Typical Ingredients in Store-Bought Versions
Packaged sausages made with chicken usually include ground meat, spices, and a bit of fat to keep them tender. Many brands, however, also mix in preservatives, excess salt, and artificial flavors to extend shelf life. These additives can take away from the natural taste and nutrition. If you prefer a cleaner option, always check the label for products free of nitrates and unnecessary fillers.
Fresh and Natural Homemade Options
Crafting sausage at home lets you focus on fresh, natural ingredients without any unnecessary additives. Start with ground chicken using a mix of thighs and breasts gives you both moisture and lean protein. Add sage, garlic, and black pepper for a classic breakfast flavor, or Italian seasoning for a savory, herby twist. A drizzle of honey adds a gentle sweetness to mellow the spices, while a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes brings an extra kick of heat. The best part is you control everything, from the flavors to the freshness, so the result is bold and perfectly suited to your kitchen.
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Chicken Sausage Made Easy: Fast, Fresh, Bold
- Total Time: 18 mins
Description
Savor the flavor with my homemade chicken sausage patties, crafted from tender ground chicken, a blend of simple spices, and a hint of honey. You can cook them to perfection in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sage ground
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
1- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, salt, black pepper, sage, garlic, Italian seasoning and honey.
2- Using your hands, shape them into eight patties and place them on a lined tray.
Cover the patties and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
3- Add oil to a non-stick skillet. Once hot, add four patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
4- Repeat the process until all the sausage is cooked up.
Notes
STORAGE: Once the patties have cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
FREEZING: These sausage patties are freezer-friendly! Store them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
REHEATING: Warm them up quickly in the microwave or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot and ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 8 mins
- Category: chicken
- Cuisine: American
Is Chicken Sausage Really Healthy?
Nutritional Breakdown: Calories, Protein, and Fat
Compared to pork or beef sausage, chicken sausage is naturally leaner and lower in saturated fat. A typical serving provides around 150–170 calories and offers a solid source of protein without overwhelming amounts of grease. This balance makes chicken sausage an appealing option for anyone who wants hearty flavor but still needs to watch calorie intake.
Comparing It to Pork Sausage
Traditional pork sausages are flavorful but often high in fat and sodium. In contrast, chicken sausage delivers the same savory bite with a fraction of the saturated fat. For individuals focused on heart health, weight loss, or a balanced diet, swapping pork for chicken sausage can make a noticeable difference without giving up comfort food.
Benefits of Making It at Home
Store-bought products often contain preservatives and excess salt, but when you prepare chicken sausage at home you’re in control. You get to customize the spices, control the salt, and leave out any unnecessary additives. Homemade versions not only taste fresher but also allow you to tailor flavors to your lifestyle whether that’s low-sodium, high-protein, or simply bold and delicious.
How to Make Homemade Chicken Sausage Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making chicken sausage patties at home starts with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have. The base is ground chicken thighs work best for flavor and moisture, but a mix with breast meat keeps it lean. Seasonings like sage, garlic, and Italian herbs give the patties bold flavor, while a touch of honey adds just enough sweetness. Finally, a splash of oil ensures they cook up tender with crisp edges.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 1 lb | Protein base |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Adds mild spice |
| Ground sage | 1 tsp | Classic breakfast taste |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove | Depth of flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Savory herbs |
| Honey | 1 tbsp | Balances spices |
| Oil | 1–2 tbsp | For cooking |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Patties
- Mix ingredients – Combine the ground chicken, spices, and honey in a bowl.
- Shape patties – Form into small rounds (about 8 patties) and place on a lined tray.
- Chill briefly – Refrigerate for 10 minutes to let flavors meld and patties firm up.
- Sauté – Warm the oil in a skillet, then cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until the pieces turn crispy, golden, and fully cooked through.
- Serve or store – Enjoy right away, or refrigerate up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully for meal prep.
Cooking Methods: Stovetop, Oven, and Air Fryer
- Stovetop: Pan-frying gives you that crispy outer edge and juicy center perfect for breakfast sandwiches.
- Oven: Baking is hands-off and lets you cook a larger batch evenly at 375°F for 20 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Quick and healthy, air frying creates a golden crust in about 10–12 minutes at 375°F.
Check out Chicken Cutlets for another simple and versatile chicken recipe you can make at home.
Best Spices and Flavors for Chicken Sausage
Classic Breakfast Sausage Seasoning
The most popular version of chicken sausage is the breakfast patty, and its flavor comes down to a simple mix of sage, black pepper, and garlic. This blend creates that familiar savory taste you’d expect from a diner-style sausage, only lighter and healthier. A pinch of crushed red pepper can also give breakfast patties just the right kick without overpowering them.
Italian-Style Chicken Sausage Blend
For a more savory, herb-packed option, Italian seasoning is the go-to. Dried oregano, basil, and thyme bring depth, while fennel seeds add a slightly sweet, aromatic flavor. This style of sausage is perfect for mixing into pasta dishes, layering on pizza, or serving alongside roasted vegetables. Homemade Italian chicken sausage keeps the flavors bold but clean, unlike many store-bought versions overloaded with salt.
Sweet and Spicy Variations
One of the best parts about making sausage at home is experimenting with flavors. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup transforms patties into a sweet-and-savory favorite, perfect for breakfast sandwiches. On the flip side, chili flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika can give your sausage a fiery edge. By playing with seasoning blends, you can create anything from a mild breakfast staple to a bold dinner centerpiece.
Cooking Methods for Chicken Sausage
Pan-Frying for Crispy Edges
If you love texture, pan-frying is the best way to cook chicken sausage. A light coating of oil in a hot skillet gives patties or links a golden crust while sealing in moisture. This method is fast just 4–5 minutes per side and perfect for breakfast plates or quick weeknight dinners.
Baking in the Oven for Batch Cooking
The oven is ideal if you’re making a large batch at once. Place patties or links on a lined baking sheet, bake at 375°F, and they’ll be ready in about 20 minutes. Baking gives you evenly cooked sausage with minimal effort, making it a meal-prep favorite. Plus, you can cook other sides like roasted veggies on the same tray for an easy one-pan meal.
Air Frying for Quick and Healthy Results
Air fryers have become a game-changer for home cooks, and they work wonders with chicken sausage. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, place the patties in a single layer inside the basket, and cook them for about 10–12 minutes until golden and cooked through. The result is juicy sausage with a crisp outer edge no excess oil required. This technique offers a cleaner, simpler way to cook minus the mess and calories of frying.
Is Chicken Sausage Halal and Fully Cooked?
What Makes Chicken Sausage Halal?
For those following halal dietary practices, it’s important to know how sausage is prepared. Halal chicken sausage must come from poultry that has been slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines and processed without pork casings, alcohol-based flavorings, or non-halal additives. Many brands now offer halal-certified options, but if you’re unsure, homemade sausage gives you complete control over every ingredient.
Raw vs. Pre-Cooked Chicken Sausage Explained
People often wonder whether chicken sausage comes fully cooked or raw. The answer depends on the type you buy. Some varieties are raw and must be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Others are pre-cooked, meaning they’re ready to heat and serve. Always check the label if it doesn’t specify, assume it’s raw and cook accordingly. Making sausage at home removes all doubt since you know exactly how it was prepared and cooked.
Delicious Ways to Eat Chicken Sausage
Breakfast Ideas: Sausage and Eggs, McMuffin-Style
Chicken sausage shines at breakfast, especially when paired with eggs, toast, or tucked into a breakfast sandwich. Try making your own copycat McMuffin with a homemade patty, a slice of cheese, and a toasted English muffin. It’s quick, protein-packed, and healthier than the drive-thru version.
Lunch and Dinner: Pasta, Salads, and Casseroles
For lunch or dinner, chicken sausage adds bold flavor without the heaviness of pork. Toss sliced links into a creamy pasta, mix patties into a grain bowl, or crumble them over a salad for extra protein. Casseroles and sheet-pan meals are also perfect ways to stretch sausage into a hearty, family-style dinner.
Snacks and Appetizers
Think beyond main meals chicken sausage works beautifully as a party snack. Serve mini patties with dipping sauces, wrap sliced sausage in puff pastry for bite-sized rolls, or skewer chunks with veggies for quick appetizers. Its mild, savory taste makes it versatile enough to pair with countless flavors.
Storage, Freezing, and Meal Prep with Chicken Sausage
How to Store in the Fridge
After cooking, store chicken sausage in a sealed container in the fridge and enjoy it safely for up to five days. To keep it fresh, allow patties or links to cool completely before sealing. When life gets hectic, having sausage prepped means you can whip up breakfast, lunch, or dinner in no time.
Freezing Raw vs. Cooked Patties
Chicken sausage freezes well whether raw or cooked. Shape raw patties, place them on a tray, and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag this prevents them from sticking together. Cooked sausage can also be frozen for up to 2 months. For best results, place it in the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating.
Easy Reheating Tips
To reheat quickly, microwave patties for 30–60 seconds until warm, or pan-fry on low heat for a crisp finish. If you’ve frozen sausage, reheating in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes restores moisture and flavor. These simple steps make meal prep easier, ensuring homemade sausage is always on hand when you need it.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken sausage proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or filled with preservatives. By using fresh ground chicken, a handful of simple spices, and your favorite cooking method, you can create sausage that’s healthier, bolder, and more versatile than anything store-bought. Whether you enjoy it at breakfast, tuck it into pasta, or meal prep patties for the week, the possibilities are endless.
The best part? Making sausage at home gives you complete control over flavors, nutrition, and quality. Real food. Real taste. Made to fuel bodies and bring people closer. If you’re looking to add variety to your weekly meals, start here and discover just how easy and rewarding homemade sausage can be.
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FAQs About Chicken Sausage
What is chicken sausage made of?
Chicken sausage is typically made from ground chicken, seasonings, and a small amount of fat to keep it juicy. Homemade versions often use simple spices like sage, garlic, and Italian herbs, sometimes with a touch of honey for balance.
Is chicken sausage really healthy?
Yes, chicken sausage is generally healthier than pork or beef sausage because it’s leaner and lower in saturated fat. When made at home, it becomes even better since you control the ingredients and avoid unnecessary additives or excess sodium.
Is chicken sausage halal?
Chicken sausage can be halal if it’s prepared from halal-certified poultry and free from non-halal additives, like pork casings or alcohol-based flavorings. Always check for certification, or make your own at home for peace of mind.
How do you cook chicken sausages?
Chicken sausage can be cooked on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or air-fried. Pan-frying creates crispy edges, baking is great for batch cooking, and the air fryer offers quick, healthier results.
Is chicken sausage fully cooked?
It depends on the type. Some are sold raw and need to be cooked to 165°F, while others are pre-cooked and only need reheating. Always read the packaging to be sure.
What’s the best way to eat chicken sausage?
The beauty of chicken sausage is its versatility. Enjoy it at breakfast in a sandwich, slice it into pasta for dinner, crumble it over salads, or serve it as a snack with dipping sauces.