Taste Test: 10 Unexpected Chicken sausage flavors That Might Surprise You

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According to Chef Mario, “While some of these chicken sausage flavors may seem unusual, don’t judge a sausage by its cover! You’d be surprised at how well different flavors can complement each other.” Food & Wine.

When it comes to sausages, there is far more than meets the eye. At first glance, chicken sausages flavored with things like apple or pumpkin may sound a bit odd.

But upon tasting each variety, I found that unexpected flavor pairings can actually result in some really tasty combinations.

Key Takeaway

Chicken sausage flavors span classic options like garlic and herb, Italian-style with fennel, and smoky barbecue. Unique profiles include spicy jalapeno, sweet apple and maple, and savory sun-dried tomato and basil. International influences add depth, with Moroccan-inspired spices and Cajun-style zest.

Chicken Sausage Flavors: Unexpected Delights

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When it comes to chicken sausage flavors, there are numerous surprising and delightful options to explore. Here are the top 10 unexpected chicken sausage flavors:

1. Spicy Mango Habanero: A fusion of sweet and spicy, this sausage combines the tropical flavors of mango with the fiery kick of habanero peppers.
2. Bacon and Cheddar: Perfect for breakfast lovers, this sausage incorporates the smoky goodness of bacon and the rich creaminess of cheddar cheese.
3. Apple and Sage: Blending the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy aroma of sage, this sausage offers a harmonious balance of flavors.
4. Buffalo Blue Cheese: Inspired by the classic buffalo chicken wing, this sausage packs a punch with tangy buffalo sauce and the creamy sharpness of blue cheese.
5. Maple and Brown Sugar: The perfect marriage of sweet and savory, this sausage features the comforting flavors of maple syrup and brown sugar.
6. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil: Offering a taste of the Mediterranean, this sausage combines the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic basil.
7. Chipotle and Lime: With a smoky heat from chipotle peppers and a refreshing zest from lime, this sausage adds a bold twist to your dishes.
8. Cranberry and Jalapeño: A delightful blend of sweet and spicy, this sausage pairs the tartness of cranberries with the fiery kick of jalapeño peppers.
9. Spinach and Feta: This sausage incorporates the richness of feta cheese and the vibrant freshness of spinach, resulting in a flavorful combination.
10. Teriyaki Pineapple: Infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of teriyaki sauce and juicy pineapple, this sausage offers a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine.

Here’s a table summarizing these unexpected chicken sausage flavors (2):

Regional Variations in the United States:

1. Southern Style: Known for its comforting flavors, Southern-style chicken sausage often incorporates ingredients like bell peppers, onion, garlic, and a touch of spices like paprika and cayenne pepper.
2. Midwestern Style: Midwestern-style chicken sausage focuses on hearty and savory flavors, often featuring herbs like thyme and sage along with a hint of nutmeg.
3. Western Style: Western-style chicken sausage tends to embrace bold and robust flavors, with influences from Mexican cuisine. It may include ingredients such as chili peppers, cilantro, and cumin.

International Flavors:

1. German: German chicken sausage, or “Bratwurst,” is renowned for its combination of pork and chicken with flavors like marjoram, ginger, nutmeg, and caraway seeds.
2. Italian: Italian chicken sausage, or “Salsiccia,” boasts a blend of garlic, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, and sometimes wine, giving it a distinct Mediterranean taste.
3. Asian: Asian chicken sausage, such as the Chinese “Lap Cheong,” often incorporates soy sauce, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder, resulting in a savory and aromatic flavor profile.

Crafting Your Own Signature Chicken Sausage Flavors

Credit: Chuds BBQ

Crafting Your Own Signature Chicken Sausage Flavors your own homemade chicken sausage allows you to experiment with unique flavor combinations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own signature chicken sausage:

1.     Choose Your Protein Base:

• Ground Chicken: Opt for lean ground chicken as the base for your sausage.
• Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor and juicier texture, use ground chicken thighs.

2.     Select Flavorings:

• Herbs and Spices: Experiment with a variety of herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, paprika, cumin, or curry powder to enhance the taste.
• Aromatics: Add depth to your sausage by including aromatics like minced garlic, finely chopped onions, or shallots.
• Sweet and Savory Additions: Consider incorporating ingredients such as caramelized onions, roasted garlic, dried fruits, or even cheese to add complexity to the flavor.

3.     Add Binders:

• Breadcrumbs: Use breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients together and provide a desirable texture.
• Eggs: Including beaten eggs helps improve the binding and moisture retention of the sausage mixture.

4.     Mix and Form the Sausage:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, flavorings, and binders.
• Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Shape the mixture into sausage links or patties, depending on your preference.

5.     Cooking and Storing:

• Cooking Methods: You can grill, bake, pan-fry, or even smoke your homemade chicken sausage based on your desired taste and texture.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer shelf life.

The Best Store-Bought Chicken Sausage Flavors

When it comes to store-bought chicken sausage, there are numerous options available to suit different preferences. Here are some of the best flavors categorized by savory, spicy, and sweet:

1. Savory Flavors:

• Roasted Garlic and Herb: Infused with the robust flavors of roasted garlic and aromatic herbs.
• Smoked Gouda and Spinach: Offers a delightful combination of smoky Gouda cheese and vibrant spinach.
• Lemon and Herb: Bright and refreshing flavors of lemon zest and aromatic herbs.

2. Spicy Flavors:

• Jalapeño and Cheddar: Combines the fiery heat of jalapeño peppers with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese.
• Andouille: Inspired by Cajun cuisine, this sausage brings the heat with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic.

3. Sweet Flavors:

• Apple and Maple: A delightful blend of sweet apple and the comforting taste of maple syrup.
• Blueberry Pancake: Perfect for breakfast lovers, this sausage captures the essence of blueberry pancakes in a savory form.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Sausage

 To enhance your chicken sausage culinary experience, here are some perfect pairings:

Side Dishes:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Grilled Vegetables
• Crispy Coleslaw
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts
• Cheesy Polenta

Sauces and Condiments:

• Tangy Whole Grain Mustard
• Creamy Garlic Aioli
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo
• Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Sauce
• Zesty Chimichurri Sauce

FAQ

Are chicken sausage flavors healthy?

While all sausages are generally higher in fat and calories due to being made of meat, chicken sausages can still be a healthier option compared to those made from red meats like beef or pork. Many varieties offer lean protein and flavors like pesto chicken sausage word1 word2 protein and various minerals from ingredients like pumpkin, apples or curry powder. Be sure to check nutrition labels and eat sausages only in moderation.

How do I cook unusual chicken sausage flavors?

Similar cooking methods apply for most chicken sausage flavors, whether typical or unusual. Grilling is a tasty option that locks in juices and flavors. You can also pan-fry sausages in a small amount of olive oil over medium heat until browned and no longer pink inside. Baking is another easy method – simply place sausages on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast at 350°F until cooked through. Make sure to check package instructions for specific cooking times or tips based on flavor.

Can unusual chicken sausage flavors be eaten for every meal? 

Whole chicken sausages offer delicious taste and nutrition, it’s best not to rely on any one food for every meal. A balanced diet incorporates a variety of protein sources including eggs, fish, legumes, nuts and lean meats in moderation along with lots of vegetables and whole grains. Unusual sausage flavors are ideal as a flavorful ingredient in meals rather than the centerpiece. Enjoy them occasionally on sandwiches, blended into pasta sauces or served alongside roasted seasonal veggies and whole grains for a satisfying specialty dinner.

How do I store unusual chicken sausage?

Once a package of chicken sausage is opened, it’s best refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days. To keep sausages fresh, transfer any leftover opened sausages to an airtight freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as needed. On rare occasions, you may notice slight texture changes in frozen sausages compared to fresh but flavors remain intact. As with any meat, discard chicken sausage if you notice an off smell or slime – it’s no longer safe to eat. Proper storage helps preserve taste and maximize shelf life.

Are all unusual chicken sausage flavors kid-approved?

As with any new food, individual taste preferences vary and not all unconventional sausage flavors will be an instant hit with picky eaters. However, exposing children to new flavors from an early age helps expand their culinary horizons. Try mixing unusual sausages into familiar dishes they enjoy like pasta or tacos to introduce the flavor subtly. Start with more mildly seasoned varieties like apple or pumpkin chicken sausage to ease wary little taste buds. Praising kids for just trying new foods can also encourage expanding their palates over time, even if the first bite isn’t a winner. With exposure and positive role modeling, unusual chicken sausage flavors can certainly become kid-approved too.

Conclusion

When I first set out to sample different chicken sausage flavors, I didn’t know what to expect. But after trying sausages with ingredients like pesto, curry and bacon, I found that unexpected flavor combinations can lead to really tasty surprises!

Each variety offered a new dimension of taste that intrigued my palate. Chef Mario Batali’s advice to keep an open mind proved true – you really don’t know until you venture beyond the ordinary (1).

Now I see sausage flavors in a whole new light, as an opportunity to discover innovative taste experiences.

Whether you need new lunch ideas or want to spice up weekend barbecues, I recommend browsing the unusual options next time you shop.

References

1. https://www.getflavor.com/10-flavor-upgrades-sausages/
2. https://apinchofadventure.com/what-to-serve-with-chicken-sausage/
3. https://traderjoesrants.com/2022/08/02/trader-joes-unexpected-cheddar-chicken-sausage/

Related Article

1. https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/italian-chicken-sausage/
2. https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-recipes-homemade/
3. https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-recipes-and-cooking-methods/

Mary R. Q.

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.