Making chicken sausage is fun and rewarding. This recipe offers a tasty and healthier alternative to regular sausages. With fresh herbs and spices, it bursts with flavor. Home cooks can easily swap ingredients to customize it to their liking.
The guide details how to prepare, cook, and serve chicken sausage, making it straightforward for anyone to follow. Curious about how to create this delicious dish? Keep reading to discover simple steps and tips for making mouthwatering chicken sausage that everyone will enjoy!
Key Takeaway
- Making chicken sausage is easy with the right ingredients.
- You can cook it in different ways like frying or baking.
- This recipe allows for fun variations to suit your taste!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Sausage
- Chicken Meat: 1 kg (thighs work best for richer flavor)
- Backfat: 200 g (provides moisture and richness)
- Fresh Basil: 1 cup, chopped (adds a fresh, aromatic taste)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced (gives a nice kick)
- Sun-dried Tomatoes: 100 g, chopped (adds sweetness and tang)
- Salt: 18 g (essential for seasoning)
- White Pepper: 3 g (adds a mild heat)
- Mace: 1 g (contributes a warm, nutmeg-like flavor)
- Coriander: 1 g (offers a subtle citrus note)
- Marjoram: 1 g (provides a hint of savory sweetness)
- Allspice: 0.5 g (adds warmth and depth)
Optional Variations
- Spicy Chicken Sausage:
- Harissa Paste: 15 g (for a spicy kick)
- Black Pepper: 2 g (for an extra layer of spice)
- Cumin: 0.5 g (adds an earthy flavor)
- Paprika: 1 g (for color and a mild sweetness)
- Tipsy Chicken Sausage:
- Red Wine: 20 ml (enhances flavor complexity)
- Fresh Parsley: 5 g (adds freshness and color) (1)
Equipment Needed
- Meat Grinder or Food Processor: Essential for mixing the chicken and spices together smoothly.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining all the ingredients in one place.
- Sausage Casings: Optional, but they give the sausages their classic shape.
- Sausage Stuffer: Useful for filling the casings evenly and neatly.
With these tools, anyone can easily prepare homemade chicken sausage with confidence. (2)
Instructions
Credits: Joshua Weissman
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the Chicken and Backfat: Chop the chicken meat and backfat into small strips. This helps them grind more easily and mix well. It’s crucial to have everything cut small and uniform.
- Freeze the Mixture: Place the chicken and fat in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This step is important. Keeping them cold makes the grinding process smoother and helps maintain a good texture.
Step 2: Grind the Meat
- Grind the Chicken and Fat: Use a meat grinder fitted with a medium or fine disc. Grind the chicken pieces and backfat together until they’re well combined. The mixture should be cohesive and look almost creamy.
- Mix in Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the fresh basil, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, salt, white pepper, mace, coriander, marjoram, and allspice. Mix it thoroughly with clean hands or a spoon, making sure each ingredient is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Stuffing (Optional)
- If using sausage casings, soak them in water to soften them. This makes them easier to work with when stuffing.
- Fit your sausage stuffer with one end of the casing. Carefully fill the casing with the sausage mixture, being careful not to overstuff it. Leave some space for the mixture to expand during cooking.
- Twist the sausages into links of your desired size. Tie off the ends tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Step 4: Cooking the Sausage
- Pan-Frying Method:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
- Place the sausages—whether linked or loose—into the skillet. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally for even browning. They should be golden and fully cooked.
- Baking Method:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, checking until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
- Slice the cooked chicken sausage and serve it on a bed of sautéed vegetables like red peppers or broccoli rabe. This adds color and nutrition to the plate.
- Mix the sausage into pasta dishes for a hearty and satisfying meal. It pairs well with a variety of sauces and toppings.
- Consider serving with sauces like marinara or pesto. These add an extra burst of flavor to enhance the dish.
With these steps, anyone can enjoy homemade chicken sausage that’s delicious and satisfying!
Tips for Success
- Keep Things Clean and Chilled: Make sure all equipment is clean and cold before starting. This keeps everything safe and fresh, ensuring the best taste and quality.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with different herbs and spices. This allows anyone to customize flavors and create a sausage that’s perfect for their taste buds.
- Adjust Fat Content for Leaner Sausage: If a leaner sausage is preferred, try using less backfat. Just keep in mind that cutting back on fat may lead to a slightly drier sausage.
This chicken sausage recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausages. It allows plenty of room for creativity in flavor and cooking methods. Whether used in pasta, served with veggies, or on a sandwich, this versatile recipe is a fun way to explore new tastes.
Conclusion
Making chicken sausage is straightforward and enjoyable. With the right ingredients and steps, anyone can whip up a delicious dish at home. This recipe encourages experimenting with flavors and cooking methods, allowing for a personalized touch. From serving alongside veggies to mixing into pasta, the options are endless. Enjoy the process and the tasty results that come from crafting homemade chicken sausage!
FAQ
What is a good substitute for olive oil in recipes?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can use other oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Each of these has a neutral flavor and works well in most recipes.
How can I use a sheet pan to make cooking easier?
A sheet pan is great for roasting vegetables, baking, or even making a full dinner by cooking your chicken sausage and veggies together. It saves time and makes cleanup a breeze.
What are some creative ways to include red beans in meals?
Red beans can be used in soups, stews, or even salads. For a simple meal, pair them with rice and your favorite seasonings for a hearty dish.
Can I use hot honey in savory dishes?
Absolutely! Hot honey adds a sweet and spicy kick to savory dishes. You can drizzle it over roasted vegetables, use it as a glaze for meats, or even mix it into a dressing.
How do I balance grams fat and grams protein in a meal?
To balance grams fat and grams protein, combine lean proteins like chicken sausage with healthy fats from sources like avocados or nuts. Add vegetables for fiber and nutrients to complete the meal.
What are some uses for white bean in cooking?
White beans are versatile and can be used in soups, purees, or salads. Mash them with olive oil and garlic for a creamy dip or use them as a base for a bean stew.
How do I use red pepper to add flavor?
Red pepper adds a spicy, tangy kick to dishes. Sprinkle it into soups, stir-fries, or even on roasted veggies. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
What makes high heat cooking effective?
High heat cooking helps brown and caramelize food, adding depth of flavor. It’s perfect for searing meats or roasting vegetables. Just be sure to monitor closely to avoid burning.
Can I substitute red onion for other types of onions?
Yes, red onion can be swapped for white or yellow onions in most recipes. It has a slightly sweeter and sharper taste, which works well raw or cooked.
What’s the benefit of using kosher salt?
Kosher salt is coarser than table salt, making it easier to control when seasoning food. It also dissolves more evenly, enhancing flavor without making dishes too salty.
What are some tips for using lemon juice in recipes?
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to dishes. Use it in marinades, dressings, or to finish soups and roasted vegetables. It can also help balance rich or salty flavors.
How can I incorporate fresh tomato into meals?
Fresh tomatoes can be used in salads, sauces, or as a topping for sandwiches. You can also roast them with olive oil and herbs for a flavorful side dish.
What dishes pair well with broccoli rabe?
Broccoli rabe’s slightly bitter flavor complements savory dishes like chicken sausage, pasta, or bean stew. Sauté it with garlic and olive oil for a simple side.
What are some ways to use chile crisp in cooking?
Chile crisp adds a spicy, crunchy texture to dishes. Try it as a topping for fried rice, roasted vegetables, or even scrambled eggs for a flavorful twist.
References:
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/259006/chicken-sausage-from-scratch/
- https://tasteofartisan.com/homemade-chicken-sausage/
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-franks-hot-dogs/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-shrimp-jambalaya/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-apple-sausage-without-pork-casing/
Was this helpful?
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.
