Chefs say chicken sausages are a healthier choice than pork or beef sausages.
I remember the first time I tasted chicken sausages – I was amazed at how flavorful and juicy they were, despite being so lean.
It was like getting all the deliciousness of a regular sausage but without that heavy, greasy feeling afterwards.
That’s the great thing about chicken sausages – they somehow manage to be light yet packed with incredible flavor.
You’d never guess they’re the healthier option! Still not convinced? Keep reading to discover more surprising facts about these tasty, guilt-free links.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Chicken sausage comparison with other sausages, what to know?
Chicken sausage stands out (1) as a leaner, healthier alternative compared to traditional pork, beef, and turkey sausages, offering lower fat and sodium content without compromising on flavor.
Nutritional Comparison with Other Sausages
Chicken Sausage vs. Pork Sausage
If you’re watching your waistline, chicken sausages are a much better choice than traditional pork sausages. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Nutrient (per 3 oz serving) | Chicken Sausage | Pork Sausage |
| Calories | 170 | 290 |
| Total Fat (g) | 10 | 23 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | 3 | 8 |
| Sodium (mg) | 570 | 790 |
As you can see, pork sausages are much higher in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and sodium.
That’s because pork is naturally a fattier meat compared to lean chicken.
Chicken Sausage vs. Beef Sausage
Beef sausages are also higher in fat and cholesterol than chicken varieties:
| Nutrient | Chicken Sausage | Beef Sausage |
| Calories | 170 | 275 |
| Total Fat (g) | 10 | 22 |
| Cholesterol (mg) | 60 | 70 |
| Protein (g) | 13 | 12 |
While beef packs more protein, the higher fat and cholesterol levels make chicken the healthier red meat alternative.
Chicken Sausage vs. Turkey Sausage
Turkey is another lean protein, so how does it compare to chicken sausage nutritionally?
| Nutrient | Chicken Sausage | Turkey Sausage |
| Calories | 170 | 160 |
| Total Fat (g) | 10 | 9 |
| Protein (g) | 13 | 16 |
Turkey sausage edges out chicken slightly on calories and fat, while providing more protein.
But they are quite comparable overall as healthy, lean sausage options.
Now you can see why I always reach for chicken or turkey sausages over pork or beef hot dogs.
The nutrition facts don’t lie – they really are the better way to enjoy that savory sausage flavor without all the artery-clogging saturated fat and cholesterol.
Give them a try on your next backyard barbecue!
Exploring Different Types of Chicken Sausages
When it comes to chicken sausages, you’ve got options! (2)
After years of taste testing, I’ve discovered some standout varieties that really showcase how delicious and versatile these lean links can be.
Aidells Italian Style Smoked Chicken Sausage
First up, the Aidells Italian Style is a personal favorite.
These sausages are slowly smoked over real hardwood chips, giving them an incredible smoky flavor that’ll have your taste buds doing backflips.
The blend of herbs like fennel, red pepper, and garlic creates a robust, mouth-watering Italian flair.
Texture-wise, they’ve got a nice snap to the casing with a juicy, finely-ground interior.
| Quick Facts | |
| Fat (g) | 7 |
| Sodium (mg) | 590 |
| Protein (g) | 12 |
Bilinski’s Organic Mild Italian Chicken Sausage
If you prefer things on the milder side, Bilinski’s Organic Mild Italian is a good option.
As the name suggests, the seasoning is more subtle – just a gentle kick of Italian herbs like basil and oregano.
The great thing about these is they’re made with simple, high-quality organic ingredients and no fillers or preservatives. Perfect for those with a more sensitive palate.
| Quick Facts | |
| Fat (g) | 8 |
| Sodium (mg) | 460 |
| Protein (g) | 14 |
Boar’s Head Robust Italian Chicken Sausage
Now let’s talk about Boar’s Head Robust Italian.
These babies are not messing around when it comes to flavor!
The blend of paprika, fennel, garlic, and red pepper packs a seriously zesty punch.
If you’re looking for a chicken sausage that can hang with the big boys in terms of taste, this is it.
I like adding sliced portions to spicy pasta dishes or chunky vegetable soups for an extra kick.
| Quick Facts | |
| Fat (g) | 12 |
| Sodium (mg) | 670 |
| Protein (g) | 13 |
So whether you prefer bold and smoky, mild and simple, or a real flavor powerhouse, there’s definitely a chicken sausage out there for you! The low fat content is just an added bonus.
Understanding Health Benefits and Considerations
Leaner Alternative to Traditional Sausages
Let’s face it – as delicious as pork and beef sausages are, they’re not exactly the healthiest choice.
That’s where chicken sausages come in!
With a fraction of the fat and sodium compared to their meatier counterparts, they offer a leaner alternative that lets you enjoy that savory sausage flavor without the guilt.
Take a look at how a typical chicken sausage stacks up:
| Nutrient | Chicken Sausage | Pork Sausage |
| Calories | 170 | 290 |
| Total Fat (g) | 10 | 23 |
| Sodium (mg) | 570 | 790 |
Over the years, I’ve found chicken sausages to be a total game-changer for lightening up dishes from:
- Jambalaya
- Breakfast burritos
- Pasta dishes
- And more!
Instead of feeling weighed down after eating them, you can actually feel good about making the swap.
Versatility in Cooking and Meal Planning
The great thing about chicken sausages is how incredibly versatile they are. You can:
- Grill them
- Sauté them
- Roast them
And pair them with just about anything. Personally, I love:
- Grilling chicken sausages with roasted red peppers and red onion for a flavorful summer meal
- Sautéing them with kale and garlic for a protein-packed breakfast hash
The possibilities are endless for working these into healthy, balanced meals.
And their lower fat and sodium levels make chicken sausages a smart choice for those watching their intake.
Taste Preferences and Personal Choices
Now, I get that some might say chicken sausages just don’t stack up to the real deal when it comes to flavor and satisfaction. A
nd I totally respect that – at the end of the day, it’s all about what tastes best to your own taste buds and fits your personal dietary needs.
If you’re someone who prefers:
- Richer
- More indulgent flavors
Brands like Boar’s Head and Trader Joe’s offer bolder, more robustly seasoned chicken sausage varieties that might hit the spot.
Alternatively, if you prefer things on the milder side, an organic option like Bilinski’s could be your jam.
The point is, there’s enough diversity out there that you’re bound to find a chicken sausage that suits your palate.
It’s simply a matter of being open to exploring until you discover your perfect fit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes chicken sausage different from pork sausage in terms of fat?
Chicken sausage is generally lower in fat compared to pork sausage.
This is because chicken meat is naturally leaner than pork.
While pork sausage often contains pork fat and skin, chicken sausage relies more on chicken breast meat which is a lean meat.
So choosing chicken sausage over pork sausage can be a good thing if you want to reduce your total fat intake.
How do you know the serving size and grams of fat of chicken sausage versus pork sausage?
When looking at sausage labels at the grocery store, pay attention to the serving size and grams of fat listed.
The serving size is important to note because you may eat more than one serving.
Chicken sausage generally has a lower fat and sodium content per serving compared to pork sausage.
Checking the nutrition facts Label can help you choose options that better fit your healthy diet goals.
What are some tasty meal ideas to enjoy chicken sausage that is lower in sodium?
Some delicious low sodium chicken sausage meal ideas include diced chicken sausage added to diced red and green bell peppers and roasted red potatoes.
You can also slice chicken sausage and add it to a pan of sautéed corn, diced tomatoes, black pepper, and sea salt for a full breakfast meal.
Another option is cooking chicken sausage links on the stovetop then serving them with brown rice and steamed broccoli.
Enjoying chicken sausage in balanced meals is a good way to watch your sodium intake.
How does the fat content of chicken sausage compare to pork sausage and other meats?
On average, chicken sausage is lower in fat compared to pork sausage and many other processed meat products.
A single 3-ounce serving of pork sausage can contain over 20 grams of fat, while chicken sausage often contains 6 grams of fat or less.
Even lower-fat pork sausages usually contain more fat than similar sized chicken sausages.
Chicken sausage is also lower in fat than beef or lamb sausage varieties.
So in terms of fat, chicken sausage is generally the better choice compared to pork or other sausage made from fattier meats.
What health risks are associated with a high sodium or high fat diet?
Eating too much sodium or saturated fat on a regular basis can increase your risks for health problems like high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
High sodium intake has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
And a diet high in saturated and trans fats is associated with higher “bad” LDL cholesterol levels which also raises heart disease risk.
It’s important to pay attention to sodium and fat content in the foods you regularly eat as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Chicken sausage can be a better protein option compared to higher sodium and higher fat pork sausages.
Can chicken sausage contain any sugars like maple syrup or corn syrup? If so, how do you know?
Some chicken sausages on the market do contain added sugars like maple syrup or corn syrup.
To check for added sugars, it’s important to carefully read the ingredients list on the package.
Ingredients are always listed from most to least by weight.
If you see corn syrup or maple syrup listed within the first three ingredients, that chicken sausage likely has a higher sugar content.
It’s generally best to choose chicken sausage varieties that use natural flavors from ingredients like dried apples, celery powder, rosemary or red peppers instead of added syrups when possible.
A low sugar content is better for your overall health and weight goals.
What are some tasty ingredients sometimes added to chicken sausage for flavor beyond the basic chicken meat?
Chicken sausages can contain a variety of extra tasty and healthy ingredients beyond just chicken meat alone.
Common additions include herbs like rosemary, Italian seasoning, fennel or sage.
Vegetables like roasted red peppers, spinach, diced tomatoes or shredded zucchini are also frequently included.
Fruit such as dried cranberries, dried apples or orange pieces provide natural sweetness.
Whole or cracked grains like brown rice or quinoa add texture.
Spices like garlic, onion, red pepper flakes or chili powder liven things up.
The ingredient variety makes chicken sausage flavors as diverse as Italian, apple, spicy jalapeño and more.
Having different flavor options keeps meal prep interesting.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, chicken sausages are a DELICIOUS and GUILT-FREE way to enjoy that classic sausage flavor we all crave.
Whether you’re looking to cut back on fat and sodium, try something new, or simply mix up your usual dinner routine, these lean links DELIVER on all fronts.
From the smoky depth of Aidells to the zesty punch of Boar’s Head, there’s a chicken sausage out there to tantalize every taste bud.
And with so many fun flavor varieties to explore, you’ll never get bored mixing and matching them into endlessly creative meals.
The best part? You can indulge without that weighed-down feeling afterwards.
Just pure sausage satisfaction and a hint of smug healthiness (the good kind!).
So next time you fire up the grill or sizzle up a skillet, reach for some chicken sausages.
Your taste buds AND your body will thank you!
References
- https://www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/2012/03/chicken-and-turkey-sausage-a-healthy-choice#:~:text=Look%20at%20the%20numbers%3A%20Pork,(read%20the%20stats%20below).
- https://www.today.com/food/groceries/best-chicken-sausage-rcna79780
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-health-benefits-nutrition/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-types-and-varieties/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/spicy-chicken-sausage/
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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.
