Making chicken sausage from scratch can be a fun and rewarding adventure. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip up tasty sausages at home. These recipes suit various tastes and cooking methods, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether using a frying pan, air fryer, or oven, these homemade chicken sausages are bound to impress. For those ready to get started, helpful tips and recipes await. Keep reading to explore the delightful process of creating flavorful chicken sausage!
Key Takeaway
- Making chicken sausage is easy and requires just a few ingredients.
- Different recipes cater to various tastes and cooking methods.
- Homemade sausages can be stored for later use, making meal prep simple.
Basic Chicken Sausage Recipe
Making chicken sausage at home is both fun and straightforward. Here’s an easy recipe to create delicious sausages that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 5 lbs chicken meat (skin-on, deboned; thighs or legs are best)
- 5 tsp kosher salt (heaping)
- 1 tsp sugar (heaping)
- 1/2 cup powdered buttermilk (or fermento)
- 1 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tsp granulated onion
- 2 tsp granulated garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh sage (finely chopped) or 1.5 tbsp rubbed sage
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup green onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup cold chicken broth
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For Sausage Casings
- 10-12 feet hog casings (28-32 mm)
Equipment Needed
- Meat grinder
- Sausage stuffer
With these ingredients and equipment ready, anyone can create flavorful chicken sausage right in their kitchen!
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Begin by grinding the chicken meat. A meat grinder works best for this job. Use skin-on chicken for added flavor and moisture. Ground chicken gives a nice coarse texture, which is ideal for sausage.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken. Then, include the following ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- Sugar
- Powdered buttermilk
- Black pepper
- Nutmeg
- Granulated onion
- Granulated garlic
- Fresh sage
- Fresh parsley
- Green onion
- Cold chicken broth
- Cayenne pepper (if using)
- Stir everything together thoroughly. It’s important to ensure all the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken. Then, include the following ingredients:
- Stuff Sausages:
- Grab a sausage stuffer and start filling the hog casings with the prepared meat mixture. Use caution not to overstuff them. Overstuffed casings can burst during cooking, which is not ideal. Twist the filled casings into links about 6 inches long. Once twisted, tie off the ends securely.
- Refrigerate:
- Place the sausages in the refrigerator if they will be used within the next five days. Alternatively, they can be frozen for up to six months. Chilling the sausages helps the flavors meld together nicely.
- Cooking:
- Cook the sausages using various methods. They can be pan-fried, grilled, broiled, or baked. Make sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safe to eat. Enjoy cooking up these homemade sausages in any way that suits your taste! (1)
Alternative Chicken Sausage Recipes
1. Italian Chicken Sausage
This Italian chicken sausage recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors but prefer a simpler approach without the fuss of stuffing casings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken (thighs are best for added moisture)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. This includes:
- 1 lb ground chicken (preferably thighs for more moisture)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp honey
- Use hands or a spoon to mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. This includes:
- Shape the Mixture:
- Once mixed, shape the concoction into patties or small links. Depending on personal preference, patties can be made about ½ inch thick. If making links, aim for a length of about 3-4 inches.
- Chill in the Fridge:
- Place the shaped patties in the fridge for at least 10 minutes. This chilling time helps the sausage hold its shape during cooking.
- Cook:
- Heat a skillet on medium. Once heated, add a splash of oil to keep the patties from sticking. Cook the sausages for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Enjoy these Italian chicken sausages in various ways. They can complement a fresh salad, be served in a sandwich, or accompany pasta dishes. Their flavor is sure to impress anyone at the table!
2. Breakfast Chicken Sausage
This breakfast chicken sausage offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. It pairs perfectly with eggs or can be enjoyed in a breakfast sandwich.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken (use lean for a healthier option)
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds depth and a hint of smokiness)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (for a little kick)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp allspice (adds warmth and flavor)
- 1 tsp dried sage (classic breakfast herb)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (this balances the spices and enhances sweetness)
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, add the following ingredients to the ground chicken:
- 1 lb ground chicken (lean)
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Combine everything thoroughly. Use hands or a spoon to ensure all spices are evenly distributed throughout the chicken. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, add the following ingredients to the ground chicken:
- Form the Patties:
- Take portions of the prepared mixture and shape them into patties. Aim for about ½ inch thick. This thickness is optimal for cooking and helps them stay juicy inside. The patties should be uniform so they cook evenly.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent the patties from sticking.
- Place the patties in the skillet carefully, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should turn a nice golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove them from the skillet. Let the sausages rest for a minute or two to allow juices to redistribute. Serve the breakfast chicken sausages with eggs, in a breakfast sandwich, or on their own as a hearty morning treat. Their savory blend of spices makes them a favorite for breakfast enthusiasts! (2)
Cooking Tips
Credits: FOOD ADDICT
- For the best flavor, use high heat to cook the sausages quickly. This technique helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the sausages juicy and flavorful. A good sear locks in moisture and adds texture.
- If there’s any uncertainty about the seasoning, it’s always smart to make a small patty and fry it up first. This quick step allows for a taste test and gives a chance to adjust the flavors before cooking the entire batch. It ensures that the final product turns out just right.
Storage
Once the sausage patties are cooked, they should be stored in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, these sausages can be frozen for up to 2 months. This makes it easy to have a tasty option available for busy mornings or quick dinners.
By following these recipes and tips, anyone can whip up delicious homemade chicken sausages tailored to their taste and enjoyed at any time!
Conclusion
Making chicken sausages from scratch is both simple and enjoyable. With these recipes, anyone can create delicious meals right at home. Each recipe caters to different tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor.
Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, homemade chicken sausages can elevate any dish. Dive in, have fun with the process, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving tasty, homemade sausages to family and friends!
FAQ
What kind of chicken can I use to make chicken sausage?
You can use chicken breasts, chicken thighs, or even a mix of dark meat and chicken breast. Ground chicken is easiest to work with.
Do I need special equipment to make chicken sausage?
A food processor makes grinding the meat easier, but you can also grind the chicken by hand. You’ll also need a baking sheet or frying pan depending on how you want to cook the sausage, and an airtight container for storing leftovers.
How long does it take to cook chicken sausage?
The cook time depends on the size of your sausages and your cooking method (baking, frying, air fryer). Check the recipe for specifics.
Can I make a large batch of chicken sausage?
Yes! Feel free to double or triple the recipe.
What spices can I add to my chicken sausage?
Many recipes include fresh garlic, black pepper, and fennel seeds. Crushed red pepper adds some heat. You can also experiment with other seasonings!
How should I store leftover chicken sausage?
Store your leftover chicken sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I make with chicken sausage?
Chicken sausage is great for breakfast. Try it in breakfast sandwiches on an English muffin, or as chicken sausage patties. It’s also delicious in other recipes.
Is it necessary to add oil when cooking chicken sausage?
Whether or not you add oil depends on your cooking method and your pan. For example, you might add oil to a frying pan, but a baking sheet generally doesn’t require it.
Where can I find chicken to make my sausage?
You can buy chicken at the grocery store, or if you have backyard poultry, you can use your own chicken. Some people even use ground turkey as a substitute.
What type of sausage can this recipe produce?
This recipe can help you make chicken sausage, chicken breakfast sausage, or even a classic sausage variation. Adding apple might even create an apple sausage.
Can I make gluten-free chicken sausage?
Yes, you can make gluten-free chicken sausage by ensuring all your ingredients (including any seasonings) are gluten-free.
How do I prepare the chicken for the sausage?
You’ll need to cut the chicken and grind the meat before you can fill the casing and cook the sausage. Finely chopped ingredients will mix more easily. Chicken broth or chicken stock may also be helpful.
What’s the best way to cook chicken sausage patties?
You can cook chicken sausage patties in a frying pan over high heat, bake them on a baking sheet, or even use an air fryer for a quick and easy method. Chicken fat could be added for extra flavor. Using cast iron is also a popular method.
References:
- https://wurstcircle.com/recipes/chicken-sausage/
- https://www.seriouseats.com/roasted-garlic-and-feta-chicken-sausage-recipe
Related Articles:
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-farro-soup/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-cabbage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-cheese-recipe/
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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.