What are heck chicken sausages made of? HECK Chicken Sausages, particularly the Chicken Italia flavor, are crafted with 85% British chicken breast, blended with basil, mozzarella, and a touch of seasoning. They skip the fillers you’d find in some sausages, sticking to simple, recognizable ingredients. (!)There’s no pork, gluten, or artificial additives, which makes them a lighter, healthier choice. Each sausage is about 97 calories, so they’re great if you’re counting. They’re also high in protein, which is a bonus for anyone trying to eat clean. Curious about how they stack up in recipes or grilling tips? Keep reading for more ideas!
Key Takeaway
- HECK chicken sausages are made with 75% British chicken.
- They include various ingredients that add flavor and texture.
- These sausages are gluten-free and low in fat.
Ingredients
1. Main Ingredient: British Chicken (75%)
The bulk of these sausages is good ol’ British chicken, and they use a mix of breast and thigh meat. That combo is smart—breasts are lean and high in protein, while thighs bring in the flavor and moisture. Together, they create a sausage that’s juicy but not overly fatty.This mix also makes them a great choice for anyone trying to eat a little healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, the fact that they use British chicken is a nice touch—it’s reassuring to know where the meat comes from.
2. Additional Components
- Water: It might seem like a boring ingredient, but water plays a big role here. It keeps the sausages moist and helps everything blend together. Nobody wants a dry sausage, and the water ensures that doesn’t happen.
- Pea Flour: This is what holds the sausage together. It’s a gluten-free binder, which is a big deal for anyone with gluten sensitivities. It also adds a bit of thickness to the mix, making the sausages easier to cook without falling apart.
- Seasonings: Here’s where the flavor comes in. They use a mix of salt, gluten-free rice flour, sugar, dried leek, and spices. The dried leek adds a mild oniony flavor, while the spices give the sausages warmth and depth. It’s a balanced blend that doesn’t overpower the chicken but still makes each bite flavorful.
- Oven-Dried Tomato (2%): This adds a subtle sweetness and a little tang. It’s not a huge amount, but it’s enough to make the flavor pop.
- Basil (1%): You can definitely taste the basil in these sausages. It gives them a fresh, slightly herby vibe that pairs really well with the chicken. It’s a nice nod to Italian flavors, which fits the “Chicken Italia” theme.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1%): Just a touch of cheese here, but it makes a difference. The mozzarella melts slightly when you cook the sausages, adding a bit of creaminess. It’s not overwhelming, so even if you’re not a big cheese person, it’s subtle enough to enjoy.
- Garlic (0.6%): Garlic is one of those ingredients that just makes everything better. It’s not a lot, but it’s enough to add a savory kick that ties all the flavors together.
- Citrus Fibre: This one’s kind of sneaky—it’s there to help keep the sausages moist. It acts like a little sponge, holding onto moisture so the sausages don’t dry out when you cook them.
3. Preservatives and Additives
Like most packaged foods, these sausages have a few preservatives to keep them fresh.
- Sodium Sulphite: This keeps the sausages from spoiling too quickly. It’s not something you’d add in your kitchen, but it’s standard in food production.
- Antioxidants (Ascorbic Acid): This helps maintain the color and freshness. Nobody wants a sausage that looks dull or off, so this keeps them looking and tasting good.
- Acidity Regulators (Citric Acid): This balances the pH and adds a slight tang to the flavor. It’s subtle, but it helps round out the taste.
4. Casing
The casing is made from calcium alginate, which is plant-based and comes from algae. It’s a cool alternative to traditional animal-based casings, and it’s a good option for people who want something more sustainable. The casing is thin, so it doesn’t get in the way of the flavor, but it still holds everything together nicely.
Nutritional Information
HECK chicken sausages are marketed as a healthier option, and the numbers back that up. For every 100 grams, you’re looking at:
- Energy: 109 kcal
- Fat: 2.8g
- Protein: 18g
- Salt: 1.7g
That’s pretty solid. The low fat content is a big draw, especially compared to traditional pork sausages, which can easily have three or four times as much fat. At just 2.8 grams of fat, these are a much lighter option.The protein is another highlight—18 grams per 100 grams is great for anyone trying to up their protein intake. Whether you’re into fitness or just trying to stay full longer, that’s a nice bonus.The salt is something to keep an eye on, though. At 1.7 grams, it’s not crazy high, but it’s worth noting if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Health Considerations
Credits: Real Ale Craft Bear
One of the standout features of HECK chicken sausages is that they’re gluten-free. For anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, that’s a big deal. It means more people can enjoy them without worrying about their health.
They’re also low in fat, which makes them a good choice for anyone trying to eat leaner. Whether you’re watching your weight or just trying to make healthier choices, these sausages fit the bill.
The combination of being gluten-free and low-fat makes them pretty versatile. They work for a lot of different diets, whether you’re cutting carbs, counting calories, or just trying to eat cleaner. (3)
Versatility in Meals
HECK chicken sausages aren’t just for breakfast (though they’re great for that too). You can throw them on the grill, bake them in the oven, or slice them up for pasta or salads. They’re mild enough to pair with a lot of different flavors but still have enough seasoning to stand on their own.For example:
- Grill them and serve with roasted veggies for a quick dinner.
- Slice them into a tomato-based pasta sauce for an easy Italian-inspired meal.
- Chop them up and toss into a salad for extra protein.
They’re one of those foods that’s easy to work into your routine, no matter what kind of meals you like to cook.HECK chicken sausages are a solid option for anyone looking for a healthier, lighter sausage that doesn’t skimp on flavor. They’re proof that you don’t have to give up taste to eat well. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or baking, they’re a reliable choice that fits into a lot of different lifestyles.
Conclusion
HECK chicken sausages bring together 75% British chicken with a thoughtful mix of seasonings, offering a flavorful, low-fat, and gluten-free alternative to traditional pork sausages. The balance of lean chicken breast and juicy thighs keeps them moist and satisfying, while ingredients like basil, garlic, and mozzarella add depth. Whether grilled, baked, or tossed into a dish, they’re a versatile choice for anyone looking for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing taste. Simple, tasty, and reliable.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in Heck chicken sausages?
Heck chicken sausages are primarily made from British chicken, along with a blend of herbs and spices. They may also contain ingredients like pea flour, potato starch, rice flour, and yeast extract to help bind the sausage and enhance the flavor. Heck sausages are typically gluten-free and low in fat.
Are there any additional ingredients or additives in Heck chicken sausages?
In addition to the chicken and seasoning blend, Heck chicken sausages may contain small amounts of ingredients like citric acid, ascorbic acid, and anticaking agents. These help regulate the acidity and prevent the sausages from sticking together. Heck also uses citrus fiber and mozzarella cheese in some of their chicken sausage varieties.
How are Heck chicken sausages packaged and shipped to ensure freshness?
Heck chicken sausages are packaged in cool boxes with ice packs to keep them fresh during shipping. The orders are designed to arrive cold, with Heck recommending that customers add more ice packs to the package upon receipt. This helps maintain the quality and safety of the sausages until they can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Can Heck Chicken sausages be frozen for later use?
Yes, Heck chicken sausages are suitable for home freezing. The company recommends that customers freeze any sausages they don’t plan to use right away. This helps preserve the quality and freshness of the sausages until you’re ready to defrost and cook them.
Where can I purchase Heck chicken sausage products?
Heck chicken sausages are available through the company’s website, where customers can order directly and have the products shipped to their homes. The sausages may also be found in select grocery stores and specialty food retailers, depending on the region.
Referencess
- https://www.dietsandcalories.com/2019/06/heck-chicken-sausage-chipolatas-review.html
- https://www.sausagereview.co.uk/heck_chicken_italia.htm
- https://slimmerstory.wordpress.com/2015/05/02/a-review-heck-sausages/
Related Articless
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/heck-chicken-sausages/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/sweet-italian-chicken-sausage/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/high-protein-chicken-sausage/
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.
