According to Chef Railey, “Chicken sausage packs more protein than pork.”
Yes, chicken sausage boosts protein intake, but wait – it also does way more for your health.
Keep reading to discover the lesser-known advantages of this lean protein and why it should become your new staple. Turns out, its versatility in the kitchen is just the start…
Key Takeaway
Chicken sausages are made from ground chicken meat, skin, and spices stuffed into a sausage casing. With around 15-20 grams of protein per 3 ounce serving, chicken sausages contain more protein than many other types of sausage.
Chicken sausage is a high-protein food
Boy howdy, chicken sausages sure are one tasty and nutritious food! As everyone knows, it’s important we eat protein to keep our bodies strong.
Did you know that chicken sausages have more grams of protein than regular pork sausage? Thanks to my years of enjoying sausage dishes at home and on the go, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes chicken sausage such a smart choice.
This article will share some fun facts about this tasty meat, plus my favorite ways to enjoy it. Keep reading to discover why chicken sausage is a real protein powerhouse!
Nutrition Facts and Protein Content
As any fan of fine fare knows, chicken sausages pack more of a protein punch than other sausage varieties.
The nutrition facts don’t lie folks – they speak for themselves! Go on and take a gander at that tasty table comparing top chicken sausage brands.
I bet you’ll be surprised which ones give you the most protein for your dollar. Spoiler alert: it ain’t just how much protein these puppies pack, but also how little fat content and saturated fat they contain. That’s mighty important information for folks watching their waistlines or ticker.
- Chicken sausage contains between 15-20 grams of protein per 3-ounce serving. This makes chicken sausage higher in protein than pork sausage which averages 4-6 grams of protein per serving (1).
- Chicken sausage is also lower in fat than pork sausage. A 3-ounce chicken sausage has 3-8 grams of fat compared to 8-12 grams of fat in pork sausage. Most of the fat in chicken sausage is unsaturated (2).
- Many chicken sausage brands have 5 grams or less of saturated fat per serving. Saturated fat should be limited to less than 10 grams per day according to dietary guidelines.
- See the nutrition facts in Table 1 for protein, fat, and saturated fat comparisons between top chicken sausage brands.
| Brand | Protein (g) | Total Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applegate | 15 | 8 | 2 |
| Al Fresco | 12 | 5 | 1.5 |
| Trader Joe’s | 10 | 4 | 1 |
| Johnsonville Chicken And Apple | 9 | 3 | 1 |
Popular Chicken Sausage Varieties
When it comes to flavors, chicken sausages sure have folks covered. There’s something for every taste out there!
Personally, I got a soft spot for the fruity varieties like apple and spinach & feta. They remind me of sunny mornings cooking up a flavorful breakfast sausage feast.
But you really can’t go wrong with classic Italian or smoked styles either. Variety truly is the spice of life when it comes to sausage!
- Breakfast chicken sausage is seasoned similarly to pork breakfast sausage but with less fat. Varieties include sage, apple, and spinach & feta.
- Italian chicken sausage contains fennel and Italian seasoning for a flavor profile similar to pork sausage but is lower in fat.
- Chicken and apple sausage combines chunks of apple with chicken for moisture and sweetness. A 3-ounce serving has 90 calories and 3 grams of fat.
- Smoked chicken sausage is smoked similarly to hot dogs for flavor though with higher protein and lower fat than pork hot dogs.
Less Commonly Known Benefits of Chicken Sausage
When it comes to nutritious proteins, chicken sausage is one customers should feel good about choosing.
Packed with valuable nutrients and minimal concerns, the sausage style offers many hidden advantages for health.
This guide explores some lesser known perks that make chicken sausage a wise decision time and again.
Rich in Milligrams of Selenium
Selenium, this often overlooked mineral plays key roles in immune and thyroid health. Research finds chicken sausage gently boosts selenium intake to support overall wellness (3).
- Each sausage link provides approximately 18-20% of the Daily Value for selenium. Selenium is a mineral that acts as an antioxidant in the body.
- Studies show selenium plays a role in thyroid function and may help reduce inflammation. Having adequate selenium in the diet is important for overall health and wellness. Chicken sausage gently boosts selenium intake.
With each link lending nearly a fifth of daily selenium needs, chicken sausage quietly delivers another nutritional boon. Its antioxidant protection works steadily, though unseen.
Easy to Prepare
Whether stir frying, stewing or simply microwaving, chicken sausage makes it into meals with minimal muss and fuss.
Such ease leaves more time to focus on the important things…like sharing a home-cooked family dinner together.
- Chicken sausage cooks up swiftly, usually in 15 minutes or less depending on cooking method. It’s perfect for weeknight meals that need a quick protein.
- Many brands offer pre-cooked chicken sausage that just needs to be reheated, saving even more time in a busy schedule. The convenience makes it likely to be chosen over unhealthier options.
Thanks to its simple preparation, chicken sausage fits family life with grace every evening. Meal planning is one less daily challenge when it’s in the lineup.
Helps Control Blood Pressure
With studies linking diets high in sodium to raised blood pressure levels, chicken sausage’s moderate sodium content provides peace of mind. Its protein also supports cardiovascular health in time.
- Chicken sausage is lower in sodium than other types of sausage, with around 300-500milligrams of sodium per link depending on the brand. Having several brands aims for no more than 400milligrams of sodium per link.
- A diet moderate in sodium, along with other heart-healthy habits like exercise and managing stress, may help reduce blood pressure for some individuals. Chicken sausage provides protein without a hefty sodium hit.
Chicken sausage lets shoppers nourish bodies without anxiety over sodium a small favor, but one still appreciated. Its wholesome formula looks out for long-term heart health too.
Versatility
Chicken sausage offers big flavor wherever it lands on the plate, from pastas to pizzas. Such adaptability lets creativity shine in the kitchen without limits. Healthy change never tasted so good.
- Chicken sausage lends BIG flavor and satisfaction to many cuisines. It tastes terrific on pizza, in pasta dishes, scrambled with eggs, even grilled as a bratwurst substitute on a bun. The versatility makes it easy to enjoy as part of any meal plan.
- Lean proteins like chicken sausage allow for more calorie-conscious eating and help stick to healthy habits in a sustainable way. The portability also lends to grab-and-go meals.
With chicken sausage bringing its taste and versatility, every meal has star potential. No wonder it’s become such a household favorite for busy families.
Chicken sausage proves a powerful part of any diet, with less attention given to its undeniable health perks.
The right choice time after time for those minding what enters both plate and heart. Finding ways to flavor family foods while safeguarding well-being, chicken sausage is sure to become a new staple.
Cooking with Chicken Sausage
When it comes to weeknight meals or weekend gatherings, chicken sausage stands out as an incredibly versatile ingredient.
Packed with flavor but lighter on calories and fat than Pork, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all. Whether you’re looking for inspiring new chicken sausage recipes or just want to reduce prep time, these versatile sausages have you covered.
From skillet dinners to baked chicken sausage served piping hot from the oven, let these links take the worry out of weeknights and the work out of entertaining.
Between sauces, seasonings and cooking methods, the options are endless – now it’s time to dig in!
Easy Weeknight Meals
When the work day has you too tired to cook, turn to chicken sausage for a simple solution. Full of protein and flavor, it comes pre-cooked so all that’s left is a little chopping and mixing.
Within minutes you can have a sausage skillet sizzling or sweet italian chicken sausage patties warming in the oven. The options here don’t skimp on taste but will have you sitting down to dinner in no time flat.
Chicken sausage makes for easy weeknight meals thanks to its convenience and versatility. Here are some simple yet satisfying meal ideas:
- Sweet Italian chicken sausage patties: Cook 4-6 patties according to package instructions. Serve on buns or with rice and your favorite veggies. Season the rice with ITALIAN seasoning for extra FLAVOR.
- Chicken sausage skillet: Cook 1 package (4 links) of CHICKEN SAUSAGE diced or sliced in a skillet over MEDIUM heat until NO LONGER PINK. Add peppers, onions, garlic and your choice of pasta or grains. Season with salt and pepper.
- Baked chicken sausage: Place 4-6 THINLY SLICED chicken sausages on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping once until crispy. Serve with easy sides like roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
- One pan pasta: Cook 1 package ofrotini or penne pasta according to package instructions. Add chopped chicken sausage, broccoli florets, grape tomatoes and garlic to the pot for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Toss with olive oil, red wine vinegar and Parmesan cheese.
- Chicken sausage LETTUCE wraps: Cut baked or grilled chicken sausage into 1/2-inch pieces. Place a piece or two in a butter or romaine lettuce leaf. Top with avocado, shredded carrots, Sriracha mayo or hummus. Roll up and enjoy!
Grilling Chicken Sausage
Though quick cooking indoors is convenient, nothing quite matches the smoky char you get from the grill.
Chicken sausage begs to be thrown onto the hot grates for a treat worthy of the weekend. This chapter includes tips and recipes for threading sausages onto skewers, grilling kabobs or tossing whole links directly over the coals.
Pair them with grilled healthy chicken sausage, veggies and a good sauce for an easy meal your whole family is sure to savor.
Grilling is a simple way to infuse chicken sausage with smoky flavor. Try these tips and recipes:
| SAUSAGES | COOKING TIME |
|---|---|
| Thick sausages (1/2-3/4 inch diameter) | 12-15 minutes |
| Thin sausages or links | 8-10 minutes |
- Use DIRECT heat over MEDIUM coals. Grill sausages uncovered, flipping periodically until the INTERNAL temperature reaches 165°F.
- Baste sausages midway through cooking with BARBECUE SAUCE or hot sauce for flavor.
- Thread chicken sausages onto skewers for easy grilling. Try Italian, SWEET ITALIAN or spicy varieties.
- Make sausage KABOBS with peppers, onions and mushrooms. Toss with Italian dressing before grilling until veggies are tender.
- Sausage and peppers on a roll: Grill sausages and sliced peppers until softened. Serve on ciabatta rolls topped with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese.
Credit : DIY Gourmet
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sausage patties?
Sausage patties are made from ground chicken instead of pork and flavored like Italian chicken.
What’s the serving size?
The serving size is usually 2-3 oz or 1-2 links but check the label as it varies.
Is it good for meal prep?
Yes, chicken sausage keeps well so it’s perfect for make-ahead meal plans.
Why choose chicken over pork?
Chicken sausage tends to be lower in fat and calories than pork but still full of flavor. The protein content is high.
Does it have less sodium?
Sodium varies but chicken sausage often has less than pork. Compare brands.
What should you look for?
Check the ingredient list for chicken first, Italian seasoning, cheese, olive oil. Some brands like Applegate Organics avoid preservatives.
How do you cook it?
You can pan fry, air fry, cook in pasta like chicken sausage pasta, or bake in the oven. It cooks up quick and easy.
How to tell it’s fully cooked?
It’s done at an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a thermometer to test store bought and homemade.
Is it high in protein?
Yes, chicken sausage has more protein per serving than hot dogs or bacon since it contains lean chicken. About 10-15g protein per 2 links.
What are sausage patties?
Sausage patties are made from ground chicken instead of pork and flavored like Italian chicken.
What’s the serving size?
The serving size is usually 2-3 oz or 1-2 links but check the label as it varies.
Is it good for meal prep?
Yes, chicken sausage keeps well so it’s perfect for make-ahead meal plans.
Why choose chicken over pork?
Chicken sausage tends to be lower in fat and calories than pork but still full of flavor. The protein content is high.
Does it have less sodium?
Sodium varies but chicken sausage often has less than pork. Compare brands.
What should you look for?
Check the ingredient list for chicken first, Italian seasoning, cheese, olive oil. Some brands like Applegate Organics avoid preservatives.
How do you cook it?
You can pan fry, air fry, cook in pasta like chicken sausage pasta, or bake like sheet pan recipes. It cooks up quick and easy.
How to tell it’s fully cooked?
It’s done at an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a thermometer to test store bought and homemade.
Does chicken sausage have a lot of protein?
Yes, chicken sausage has more protein per serving than hot dogs or bacon since it contains lean chicken. About 10-15g protein per 2 links.
Is chicken sausage healthier than pork sausage?
Yes, chicken sausage tends to be lower in fat, lower calorie, and lower fat than pork sausage while still providing protein. This makes it better for weight loss and healthy eating.
Conclusion
Well butter my biscuits, after learning about all the protein-packed perks of chicken sausage, I reckon folks have no excuse not to give these sausages a whirl!
Between their versatility for weeknight skillet suppers to backyard barbecues, high protein and low fat content supporting healthy weights, and wealth of vitamins and minerals keeping our bodies running strong, chicken sausage sure proves one mighty fine meat.
No need for number crunching nonbelievers neither – just ask any seasoned chef what delicious dishes they whip up with chicken sausage links on the regular. Or check with your favorite dietitians about the sound nutritional stats I shared earlier.
And don’t even get me started on the gang of great grilling recipes ya gleaned here! With so much flavor and so little effort, chicken sausage makes healthy living and happy bellies a cinch.
So in summary, folks, whether you’re minding your macros or just miss the taste of sausage – I guarantee chicken will become your new favorite. Give one of the recipes in this article a try, then you’ll be hooked too! Don’t be a stranger now, ya hear?
Can’t wait to hear how your chicken sausage dishes turn out – leave a comment below with your reviews! Now go on and get sausage sizzling! Toodles for now, and happy sausaging!
References
- https://facts.net/chicken-sausage-nutrition-facts/
- https://www.fatsecret.com/calories-nutrition/generic/chicken-sausage
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/foods-with-selenium
Related Article
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-stir-fry/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/dash-mini-rice-cooker-review/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/seasoning/
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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.
