“Chicken sausages are a tasty and healthier choice than regular sausages made from pork.” – John, the culinary expert, says.
I used to think all sausages were the same until I tried chicken sausages.
Boy, was I in for a surprise! These links pack a flavorful punch without being as heavy or greasy as pork sausages.
From smoky applewood to spicy jalapeño, there’s a chicken sausage flavor for everyone.
Wait until you hear about the top brands – it’ll make your mouth water! Stick around to discover which ones reign supreme.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Chicken sausage popular brands, what to know?
The top brands for chicken sausages include Al Fresco, Applegate, and Johnsonville, known for their flavorful options and high-quality ingredients. (1)
These brands offer a variety of choices, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Comparison of Top Chicken Sausage Brands
Al Fresco Chicken Sausage
Al Fresco has really nailed the art of making delicious chicken sausages.
Their Spinach Feta variety is an absolute knockout! Each savory link is stuffed with real spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
When you bite into one, you’re greeted with an explosion of flavor.
But don’t just take my word for it, check out the nutritionals:
Nutrition Facts (Per Link) | Amount |
Calories | 100 |
Total Fat | 7g |
Sodium | 520mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 2g |
Protein | 13g |
For a hot dog alternative that’s lean yet packed with taste, Al Fresco really can’t be beat.
Applegate Chicken Sausage
Applegate is committed to organic, clean ingredient chicken sausages.
After years of sampling different brands, their Sweet Italian and Chicken & Apple varieties consistently top my list.
The Organic Sweet Italian Sausage tastes like it came straight from an Italian nonna’s kitchen.
It’s made with just chicken, sea salt, fennel, paprika and other spices.
No sketchy fillers or preservatives here!
Then there’s the Organic Chicken & Apple.
This unique sausage pairs savory chicken with diced apples, honey, and autumnal spices like cinnamon.
It’s like having a healthy apple pie for breakfast!
Here’s a side-by-side look at their nutrition info:
Nutrition (Per Link) | Sweet Italian | Chicken & Apple |
Calories | 150 | 140 |
Total Fat | 12g | 10g |
Sodium | 590mg | 460mg |
Total Carbs | 1g | 5g |
Protein | 9g | 7g |
Both sausages are gluten-free and made with simple, high-quality ingredients you can feel good about eating.
Applegate really raises the bar for clean chicken sausages.
Johnsonville Chicken Sausage
When you want to enjoy that classic sausage flavor without all the fat, reach for Johnsonville’s Chicken and Apple Fully Cooked Sausages.
These plump links are made with lean chicken and real chunks of crisp apple.
But don’t think you’re sacrificing taste for health.
Johnsonville seasons their chicken sausages with the same delectable spice blend used in their pork varieties.
One bite and your taste buds are transported to sausage nirvana!
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts:
Nutrition (Per Sausage Link) | Amount |
Calories | 170 |
Total Fat | 9g |
Saturated Fat | 2g |
Sodium | 660mg |
Total Carbs | 9g |
Protein | 14g |
As you can see, compared to pork sausages these chicken links have 50% less fat yet still deliver 14 grams of protein per link.
They’re also conveniently fully cooked and gluten-free.
Whether for breakfast or adding protein to a dish, Johnsonville’s healthier twist on sausage really hits the spot!
Aidell’s
Aidell’s is a true pioneer in the chicken sausage game, crafting fully cooked links with unique flavor combinations you can’t find anywhere else.
We’re talking varieties like Habanero & Green Chile, Italian Style with Mozzarella, and Chicken & Apple with Vermont Maple Syrup.
What sets Aidell’s apart is their commitment to clean ingredients.
Their chicken sausages are nitrite/nitrate-free, MSG-free, and made without any added hormones or artificial preservatives.
Let’s take a closer look at their popular Chicken & Apple with Vermont Maple Syrup:
Nutrition (Per Sausage Link) | Amount |
Calories | 160 |
Total Fat | 11g |
Saturated Fat | 2g |
Sodium | 620mg |
Total Carbs | 6g |
Protein | 11g |
These sweet and savory links have diced apples, real Vermont maple syrup, and spices like ginger and nutmeg.
Every bite is like a flavor explosion!
Now, I will mention there have been some reports from consumers about finding plastic or bone fragments in their Aidell’s packages.
While concerning, I’ve personally never experienced this in all my years eating their sausages.
Overall, Aidell’s makes delicious, high-quality chicken sausages you can feel good about incorporating into your meals.
Their fun flavor combos are perfect for adding protein and zest to any dish!
Trader Joe’s
Ah, good ol’ Trader Joe’s – the promised land for tasty and affordable chicken sausages! After years of trying out these things, I’ve found Trader Joe’s really knows how to make a mean chicken sausage.
They’ve got a nice variety of cooked and fresh chicken sausage options.
For a quick protein addition, their pre-cooked Smoked Apple Chardonnay and Garlic Herb links are super convenient.
Just heat and eat!
But if you want to get your hands a little dirtier, check out their fresh chicken sausage game.
The Sweet Apple and Spicy Jalapeño varieties are downright addictive.
I usually grab a few packs and fire up the grill for an easy meal.
What I love about Trader Joe’s sausages is they really pack in the flavor without going overboard on sodium or fillers.
Most varieties are around 400-500mg sodium per link while still delivering 12-16g protein.
And based on the rave reviews, seems like I’m not the only chicken sausage fanatic who’s fallen for Trader Joe’s.
Their affordable prices and quality ingredients are tough to beat!
Here are a few of their top chicken sausage offerings at a glance:
Sausage Variety | Calories | Total Fat | Protein |
Smoked Apple Chardonnay | 180 | 13g | 12g |
Sweet Apple | 190 | 13g | 13g |
Garlic Herb | 150 | 9g | 16g |
Spicy Jalapeño | 170 | 12g | 14g |
So whether you want cooked for convenience or fresh for maximum flavor, Trader Joe’s has you covered with their delicious and affordable chicken sausage selection!
Additional Information
At the end of the day, the “best” chicken sausage brand comes down to your own taste preferences.
Think about what flavors you enjoy most:
- Smoky and savory
- Sweet with a kick
- Loaded with veggies and cheese
- Simple herbs and spices
After years of trying out these things, I’ve realized we all have different sausage soulmates that light up our taste buds.
So don’t be afraid to sample varieties until you find your perfect match!
Maybe you’re a fan of:
Brand | Top Variety |
Aidells | Chicken & Apple |
Trader Joe’s | Spicy Jalapeño |
Al Fresco | Spinach Feta |
Or you might discover a new favorite like Albertsons’ Roasted Garlic and Herbs.
The options are endless!
The key is keeping an open mind as you explore different flavors.
Your ideal protein-packed frank is out there.
No matter which you choose, you’re making a healthier choice (2) over traditional pork sausages.
Just pick a brand using:
✓ High-quality chicken
✓ Clean ingredients
✓ Little to no preservatives
So don’t be a chicken about trying new sausages!
Fun flavors and better-for-you links are just a grocery trip away.
Have fun finding your sausage soulmate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do chicken sausages taste similar to hot dogs?
While chicken sausages and hot dogs are both popular lunch meats, they have some differences in taste and ingredients.
Many chicken sausages have a lighter flavor than hot dogs since they don’t use pork casing or smoked beef.
Some chicken sausages are flavored with bell peppers, red pepper, or other vegetables for a fresh taste.
Hot dogs often have a smokier taste from smoked beef or pork.
So chicken sausages may not be a perfect substitute for hot dogs in every recipe or situation, but they can still make a tasty meat option that is pork-free.
Are there any good gluten-free and pork-free chicken sausage brands?
Yes, there are several popular brands of chicken sausage that are both gluten-free and made without pork.
Two options to look for are Bob Evans brand sausage links, which are gluten-free and use only chicken and seasonings, or Jimmy Dean brand chicken and apple sausage, which is also gluten-free and pork-free.
Both of these brands are widely available at most grocery stores like Harris Teeter.
Plant-based sausage alternatives made from soy or vegetables are also usually gluten-free and pork-free.
Which brands are higher or lower in fat content?
Most chicken sausages tend to be a bit lower in fat and calories than pork or beef sausages.
However, even within chicken sausages, the fat content can vary between brands and flavors.
In general, chicken sausages that contain extra ingredients like cheese, corn syrup or maple syrup will be higher in calories and grams of fat.
Brands known to be on the lower side include Bob Evans mild Italian sausage and their chicken apple variety.
Higher fat options include sausages rubbed with oil or flavored with cheese like white cheddar.
Comparing nutrition labels is the best way to identify the lower or higher fat options between brands.
Which types are best for someone trying to lose weight or watch what they eat?
For those watching their weight or trying to lose weight, the healthiest chicken sausage options are those with the minimal additional ingredients, especially ones higher in sugar or fat.
Good lower-calorie choices include plain chicken sausage links or patties flavored mainly with herbs and spices rather than cheese, corn syrup or other high calorie additions.
Varieties labeled “lite” or ones from brands focused more on clean ingredients like Bob Evans or Jimmy Dean chicken and apple sausage often hit the spot without a lot of grams of fat or calories.
Protein is very filling, so chicken sausages make a satisfying part of a weight-loss friendly diet as part of a balanced, portion-controlled meal at the grocery store.
What can chicken sausages be used for besides just eating plain?
While many people enjoy chicken sausages on their own, they are also very versatile to use in recipes.
Some ideas include crumbling them to add to scrambled eggs, omelets or casseroles for extra protein and flavor.
They can also be used in place of pork sausage in pasta dishes like mac and cheese.
Chicken sausages work well on sandwiches instead of hot dogs on a hot dog bun.
Grilling is a popular preparation method to impart smoky flavors.
Pre-cooking sliced sausage adds protein to stir-fries or topped on salads.
The milder flavors of chicken sausage also allow it to play nicely in sweet applications like stuffing apples or mixing into breakfast maple chicken sausage.
Conclusion
Chicken sausages have come a long way, folks! These lean, protein-packed links offer a world of delicious possibilities without all the grease and guilt.
After sampling sausages from the top brands, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect fit for your tastes.
Maybe you’re drawn to bold, smoky flavors like Applegate’s Organic Sweet Italian.
Or perhaps a sweet-and-savory combo like Aidells’ Chicken & Apple with Vermont Maple Syrup hits the spot.
With so many creative varieties on the market, the fun is in the tasting!
At the end of the day, your ideal chicken sausage brand is the one that excites YOUR tastebuds.
So keep an open mind and adventurous appetite as you explore different flavors.
I guarantee you’ll discover a new healthy obsession along the way.
No matter which brand you choose, you’re making a smarter choice over traditional pork sausages.
As long as you pick links made with high-quality chicken and clean ingredients, you’re fueling your body right.
So don’t be a chicken – get out there and start sampling all the delicious chicken sausage goodness! Your taste buds and bikini body will thank you.
What are your favorite chicken sausage brands and flavors?
Drop a comment below to share your top picks!
I’m always on the hunt for new sausage discoveries.
References
- https://www.eatthis.com/healthiest-chicken-sausage-brands/
- https://www.zorabian.com/blogs/the-5-best-things-about-chicken-sausage-for-healthy-you/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/spicy-chicken-sausage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-types-and-varieties/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/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.