Key Takeaway:
- Homemade chicken sausage lets you customize flavors and ingredients.
- Chicken sausage can be used in many delicious recipes.
- Making sausage at home is a fun way to eat healthier.
1. Italian Chicken Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons fennel seeds (or 1 teaspoon ground fennel)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, the ground chicken, olive oil, and all the seasonings come together. Using hands or a spatula, mixing ensures everything is well blended.
- Resting Period: After mixing, covering the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid is important. Refrigerating the mixture for at least eight hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld. This step makes each bite taste even better.
- Cooking: When it’s time to cook, heating a skillet over medium-high heat is essential. A light spray of avocado oil will help prevent sticking. Cooking the sausage mixture for 8 to 10 minutes while stirring occasionally ensures it browns nicely and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serving Suggestions: The versatility of this sausage is fantastic. It works well in pasta dishes, on pizza, or alongside roasted vegetables. Crumbling it into breakfast scrambles or adding it to sandwiches adds a delicious twist.
Tips:
- Making a double batch and freezing some is a great idea. This way, a quick meal is ready whenever needed.
- Allowing the sausage mix to rest in the refrigerator enhances the flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
2. Green Onion Chicken Sausage
Ingredients:
- 7.5 lbs chicken thighs
- 5.5 lbs chicken breast
- 3 bunches of green onions, chopped
- 2 lbs pork back fat (optional)
- Seasoning mix (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prepare Meat: The first step is cutting the chicken thighs and chicken breast into smaller pieces. If using pork back fat, it should also be cut into chunks. This ensures the meat grinds evenly, resulting in a great texture for the sausage.
- Mix Seasonings: In a separate bowl, it’s time to combine favorite seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Adjusting the amounts based on personal preference ensures the flavors shine through. Mixing the seasonings beforehand helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout.
- Combine Ingredients: Using a meat grinder or food processor, mix the chicken, pork fat (if using), chopped green onions, and seasoning mix. If using a food processor, pulsing until everything is well combined but not mushy is important. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
- Stuff Sausage Casings: If desired, the mixture can be stuffed into sausage casings for traditional sausages, or it can be shaped into patties for a quicker cooking option.
- Resting Time: Refrigerating the sausage mixture overnight allows the flavors to develop further, ensuring a delicious outcome when cooked.
Cooking Method: These sausages can be grilled or cooked in a skillet. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. These recipes encourage creativity in the kitchen while highlighting the benefits of homemade chicken sausage. Each version brings unique flavors that can enhance a variety of dishes, making mealtime enjoyable and exciting.
3. Chicken Sausage Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 3 chicken sausages, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- Fresh spinach (optional)
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, which usually takes about 8-12 minutes depending on the type. Once done, draining it and setting it aside is essential.
- In a large skillet, a drizzle of olive oil is heated over medium heat. Once hot, sautéing the diced onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant takes about 3-4 minutes.
- The next step involves adding sliced chicken sausage and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cooking until the sausage is browned and the bell pepper is tender adds delightful flavor and texture to the dish.
- Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, including the juice, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Lastly, adding the cooked pasta and fresh spinach (if using) to the skillet is important. Stir until everything is heated through and the spinach wilts, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
This chicken sausage pasta dish is colorful, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. It’s a complete meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Enjoying this meal makes any weeknight feel special with minimal effort.(2)
4. Chicken Sausage and Apples Casserole
Ingredients:
- 5 medium potatoes, sliced thinly
- 3 chicken sausages, cooked and sliced
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 tablespoons light margarine
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup milk
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Dried oregano (to taste)
- Grated cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring the casserole cooks evenly throughout.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the light margarine over low heat. Once melted, stirring in the flour creates a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, adding a creamy element to the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the potato slices at the bottom. Next, evenly distribute the cooked chicken sausage slices and diced onions over the potatoes. This layering helps each bite be flavorful.
- Add the Sauce: Pour half of the prepared sauce over the potato and sausage layers. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potato slices, sausage, onions, and sauce. This double layering enhances the heartiness and flavor.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about an hour. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. In the last few minutes, removing the foil will let the top brown slightly, creating a delicious golden crust.
This casserole shines at family dinners or potlucks, combining savory and sweet flavors that appeal to everyone. The potatoes absorb the wonderful flavors from the sausage and sauce, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
5. Grilled Chicken Sausage Kabobs
Ingredients:
- Chicken sausages, cut into chunks
- Bell peppers, cut into chunks
- Onion, cut into wedges
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the kabobs cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the chunks of chicken sausage onto skewers, alternating with colorful bell pepper chunks and onion wedges. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the kabobs visually appealing.
- Season the Kabobs: Brush the assembled kabobs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This step emphasizes the flavors and helps prevent sticking on the grill.
- Grill: Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The sausages should be thoroughly cooked with a nice char on the outside.
These kabobs are an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings. They pair well with a side salad or favorite dipping sauce. Grilling brings out the best flavors in chicken sausage, making this dish a guaranteed hit at any barbecue.
6. Chicken Sausage Soup
Ingredients:
- 3 chicken sausages, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Rice or pasta (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the sliced chicken sausages over medium heat until they are browned. This step enhances the flavor of the soup base.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. The broth serves as the foundation for the soup, adding richness and depth.
- Add Vegetables: Once boiling, it’s time to add mixed vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn. These not only contribute nutrition but also bring a vibrant color to the soup. If someone is using rice or pasta, they can add that at this stage as well.
- Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer until the vegetables are tender and the rice or pasta is fully cooked. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the ingredients chosen.
This chicken sausage soup is easy to make and wonderfully comforting. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover sausage, making it ideal for meal prep. Pairing it with crusty bread creates a complete meal that warms the soul. These recipes highlight the versatility of chicken sausage in various dishes while providing a healthier option. Whether grilled, baked, or enjoyed in a soup, chicken sausage can bring delightful flavors to any meal!
Source : Erin Alvarez
Conclusion
Homemade chicken sausage is a delicious and versatile choice that can cater to various tastes. Experimenting with different spices and recipes makes it simple to create flavorful chicken sausages suitable for any meal. Whether it’s adding herbs for a fresh touch or incorporating unique ingredients for a twist, the possibilities are endless.From breakfast scrambles to hearty dinners, chicken sausage can enhance a range of dishes. Embracing this homemade option allows individuals to enjoy tasty, healthier meals while getting creative in the kitchen. With a little effort, it’s easy to make chicken sausage a favorite on the dinner table.
Frequently Asked Question
What makes a chicken sausage recipe “good”?
A good chicken sausage recipe balances flavors, textures, and seasonings to create a dish that’s both tasty and nutritious. High-quality ingredients, the right seasonings, and careful preparation all contribute to making a satisfying recipe. Whether you’re looking for a traditional taste or something unique, a good recipe should be easy to follow and adaptable to suit your taste.
Can I make chicken sausage recipes without using casings?
Absolutely. You can make chicken sausage patties or crumbles without casings for an easier option. Many recipes work well as loose sausage, especially for breakfast scrambles, pasta dishes, or stir-fries. Casings are typically used for links but aren’t necessary for every recipe.
What seasonings work best in chicken sausage?
Classic seasonings include garlic, fennel, black pepper, and herbs like basil and parsley. Italian-style sausages may have fennel and oregano, while spicier versions might use paprika or chili flakes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors like rosemary, thyme, or even a hint of maple for breakfast sausages.
How can I make my chicken sausage taste juicier?
Using a mix of chicken thigh and breast meat can add juiciness to homemade sausage. Adding a small amount of olive oil, or even including a bit of chicken broth when cooking, can also help keep the sausage moist. For patties or links, avoid overcooking to keep them from drying out.
Are chicken sausage recipes healthy?
Chicken sausage can be a healthier choice since it’s usually lower in fat than pork. Look for recipes that don’t rely on added fats and use lean cuts. Homemade options allow you to control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and choose seasonings that enhance flavor without extra sodium.
Can I freeze homemade chicken sausage?
Yes, freezing homemade chicken sausage works well. Shape your sausage into patties, crumbles, or links, and then wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. Store in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date, and for best results, use within three months.
What dishes pair well with chicken sausage?
Chicken sausage is versatile and pairs well with many foods. You can add it to pasta dishes, stir-fries, or casseroles, or use it in breakfast scrambles. It also complements roasted vegetables, rice dishes, and salads. The flavors are mild enough to fit into a variety of meals.
Can I use chicken sausage in place of other types of sausage?
Yes, chicken sausage can often replace pork or beef sausage in recipes. Just be mindful that chicken sausage has a milder flavor and lower fat content, so you might want to adjust seasonings or add a bit of oil to keep the dish balanced. It’s a great substitute for healthier meals.
References
- https://tasteofartisan.com/homemade-chicken-sausage/
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/chicken-sausage-pasta
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- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-apple-sausage-meal/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-nutrition/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/great-chicken-sausage-recipes/
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