Making chicken sausage can be an enjoyable kitchen project. It gives individuals the chance to pick their favorite flavors and control the ingredients that go into their meals. Many find the process to be simple and satisfying. With just a few tools and some basic ingredients, anyone can whip up delicious chicken sausage at home.
Curious about how to get started? There are plenty of steps and useful tips ahead that will guide anyone through the process. Keep reading to discover the secrets of making tasty chicken sausage with ease!
Key Takeaway
- Making chicken sausage is easy and fun.
- You can choose your own flavors and ingredients.
- Cooking chicken sausage can be done in different ways.
Equipment Needed
Meat Grinder
A meat grinder is essential for anyone making chicken sausage. It turns chicken meat into a fine mix needed for sausage-making. If a meat grinder isn’t available, a food processor works just as well.
Sausage Stuffer
A sausage stuffer is fantastic for filling casings with the mixture. If there’s no stuffer on hand, making patties is an easy alternative. Patties can be cooked just like sausage links.
Mixing Bowls
Large mixing bowls help combine all the ingredients easily. They make mixing everything together a breeze.
Knife and Cutting Board
A sharp knife and sturdy cutting board are handy for chopping the chicken. Cutting the meat into small pieces first makes grinding much easier.
Casings (Optional)
Natural hog or sheep casings add a traditional touch to sausages. While they enhance flavor and texture, they’re not a requirement. If someone prefers, skipping the casings and making patties is perfectly fine.
Ingredients
To prepare around 5 pounds of chicken sausage, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Meat: 5 lbs of boneless, skin-on chicken thighs or whole chickens, deboned.
- Kosher Salt: 5 heaping teaspoons not only enhance the flavor but also help with preservation.
- Sugar: 1 heaping teaspoon adds a hint of sweetness that balances the flavors.
- Powdered Buttermilk or Fermento: ½ cup improves the texture and adds a slight tang.
- Black Pepper: 1½ teaspoons for a touch of spice.
- Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon offers a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Granulated Onion: 2 teaspoons brings in a savory onion taste.
- Granulated Garlic: 2 teaspoons for an extra kick of garlic flavor.
- Fresh Sage: ¼ cup finely chopped (or 1½ tablespoons of rubbed sage) for a fresh herbal note.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup finely chopped adds color and a hint of freshness.
- Green Onion: ½ cup finely chopped or sliced gives a nice crunch.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup, cold, to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): 1 teaspoon or to taste for those who like a spicy kick.
Preparation of Casings
If using natural casings, soak them in warm water for at least an hour. This process softens them, making them easier to work with.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, take the boneless chicken thighs or whole chicken and cut it into small pieces, aiming for about one inch in size. This makes it easier to grind evenly. Remember to include the skin, as it adds essential fat and flavor to the sausage. Without the skin, the sausage may turn out dry. So keep those juicy bits in to enhance the taste! (1)
Step 2: Grind the Meat
Once the chicken is cut, it’s time to grind it. Using a meat grinder, pass the chicken pieces through a coarse plate first. This step breaks the meat down without turning it into mush. For a smoother texture, run the chicken through again using a fine plate. This method creates a soft, well-mixed sausage that holds all the flavors nicely.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground chicken with all your seasonings—this includes kosher salt, sugar, black pepper, nutmeg, granulated onion, granulated garlic, chopped sage, parsley, green onion, and chicken broth. Mixing by hand is the best way to ensure everything is well combined.
- Make sure to:
- Distribute the spices evenly.
- Feel the texture change as you mix.
- Aim for a cohesive mixture, so every bite is packed with flavor.
A well-mixed blend will make all the difference in taste.
Step 4: Stuff the Sausage
If using natural casings, take one end and attach it securely to your sausage stuffer. Carefully fill the casing with the meat mixture, being mindful not to overstuff. Leaving some space allows the sausage to expand while cooking.
- Twist the sausages into links:
- Aim for about 6 inches in length.
- Tie off the ends tightly to prevent any leaks.
Take a moment to appreciate those perfectly formed links before moving on.
Step 5: Refrigerate or Freeze
Once the sausages are stuffed, it’s time to store them. Uncooked sausages can sit in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage:
- Freeze them in vacuum-sealed bags.
- These sausages can last for up to 6 months, making meal prep a breeze.
With this simple step-by-step guide, anyone can enjoy homemade chicken sausage whenever the craving strikes. (2)
Cooking Chicken Sausage
Credits: FOOD ADDICT
There are several tasty ways to cook chicken sausage. Here are three simple methods that anyone can master.
- Pan-Frying: This method yields a delicious, browned sausage with a nice crust.
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add a little oil to the pan if desired to prevent sticking.
- Place the sausages in the hot pan and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Turn them occasionally to ensure even browning and cooking.
- They are done when they are nicely browned and cooked through.
- Baking: Baking is great for cooking larger batches without much fuss.
- Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the sausages on the baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded.
- Bake for about 18 to 24 minutes.
- Check for doneness by cutting one open; it should no longer be pink inside.
- Air Frying: This method gives the sausages a crispy outside while keeping them juicy inside.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Place the sausages in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation.
- Cook for about 6 to 9 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- They should turn golden brown and have a nice crunch.
Each cooking method offers a unique flavor and texture. Whether pan-frying, baking, or air frying, chicken sausage is sure to turn out delicious and satisfying. Experimenting with these techniques will make it easy for anyone to discover their favorite way to prepare it!
Tips for Success
- It’s important to start with clean tools. Keeping everything sanitized helps ensure food safety, which everyone wants for their meals.
- Mixing both dark and white meat elevates the flavor. The darker meat tends to be juicier, while the skin contributes great texture. This combination creates a more enjoyable sausage experience.
- If a sausage stuffer isn’t handy, shaping the mixture into patties is a fantastic alternative. Cooking them like burgers makes for a delicious meal. Plus, they can be dressed up with toppings, just like traditional sausage links.
Conclusion
Making chicken sausage at home is both easy and enjoyable. It offers a chance to add personal touches and achieve delicious results. With the right tools and ingredients, anyone can whip up flavorful chicken sausage. Embrace the cooking process, and don’t forget to share the tasty results with family and friends. It’s a great way to bond over a meal everyone can appreciate!
FAQ
What kind of meat do I need to make chicken sausage?
You’ll need chicken meat, specifically ground chicken. You can use chicken breast or chicken thighs, depending on your preference for fat content. Some recipes also include lean meat, like ground turkey, for a leaner sausage.
What are some common seasonings for chicken sausage?
Many recipes use a blend of spices including black pepper, white pepper, red pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, dried sage, smoked paprika, and fennel seeds. Some also include sweet additions like maple syrup or brown sugar, to make a sweet Italian style sausage. Sea salt and kosher salt are also frequently used.
What equipment do I need to make chicken sausage?
You will need a meat grinder or a food processor to properly mix the meat. To cook your chicken sausage you can use a frying pan, cast iron skillet, stick skillet, or even an air fryer. You might also use a baking sheet, depending on your chosen cooking method. If you’re making sausage links, you’ll need hog casings.
How long does it take to make chicken sausage?
The prep time varies depending on the recipe. The cook time also depends on the cooking method and the size of your sausage patties or links. Add your prep time and cook time together to find the total time. You’ll also need some rest time to allow the sausage to cool.
How should I cook my chicken sausage?
You can cook chicken sausage at medium heat or high heat, depending on your preference and the cooking method. A hot skillet or hot frying pan is typical. The air fryer is another popular option. Remember, cooking times will vary.
What are some ways to use homemade chicken sausage?
Feel free to get creative! You can eat chicken sausage as part of a meal prep plan, or include it in your favorite dishes. It can be sliced and added to potato soup, or enjoyed as sausage links or sausage patties.
Can I save money by making my own chicken sausage?
Yes, making your own chicken sausage can often save money compared to buying it from the grocery store. You control the ingredients and can choose more affordable options.
What ingredients add fat to the chicken sausage?
Chicken breast is a relatively lean meat, so many recipes include pork fat or a higher fat percentage of ground meat to add moisture and flavor. Adding olive oil during cooking also adds a small amount of fat.
What are some considerations for making chicken sausage?
The sausage mix should combine chicken meat and fat for optimal taste and texture. Using a good sausage recipe will help. Some people prefer gluten free options, and some may have high protein goals. Be mindful of the type of sausage recipe you are following; some people might like to add hot sauce.
References:
- https://tasteofartisan.com/homemade-chicken-sausage/
- https://wurstcircle.com/recipes/chicken-sausage/
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-ground-chicken-sausage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/how-to-make-sausage-with-chicken/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-dressing-recipe/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
