Waking up to the savory aroma of sizzling breakfast sausage is a morning ritual many of us cherish. However, store-bought options are often loaded with preservatives, sodium, and mystery ingredients. This easy chicken breakfast sausage recipe is the perfect solution, giving you all the flavor you crave in a healthier, leaner package you can feel good about.
These homemade sausage patties are juicy, tender, and packed with a classic blend of fragrant herbs and spices. They are surprisingly simple to prepare and cook up in just a few minutes. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to the pre-packaged kind again.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the perfect pan-sear. Get ready to transform your breakfast routine with a recipe that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken Sausage
There are countless reasons to make this chicken breakfast sausage recipe a staple in your kitchen. It’s more than just a tasty breakfast option; it’s a versatile and healthy choice that puts you in complete control of your food.
Healthier Than Store-Bought
By making your own sausage, you control exactly what goes into it. This recipe uses lean ground chicken and a blend of natural spices, allowing you to skip the nitrates, fillers, and excessive sodium commonly found in commercial sausages. It’s a clean, protein-packed way to start your day.
Packed with Flavor
The secret to incredible breakfast sausage is the seasoning. This recipe uses a perfectly balanced combination of sage, thyme, fennel, and a hint of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. The result is a savory, aromatic sausage with layers of flavor that far surpass anything from a package.
Incredibly Versatile
These chicken sausage patties aren’t just for breakfast. You can crumble the cooked sausage into pasta sauces, sprinkle it over pizza, or use it as a flavorful addition to soups and stuffings. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a fantastic recipe for meal prep.
Perfect for Meal Prep
You can prepare a large batch of this chicken breakfast sausage recipe over the weekend and enjoy quick, high-protein breakfasts all week long. The patties store beautifully in both the refrigerator and the freezer, making hectic mornings much more manageable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, accessible ingredients to create its signature flavor. The magic is in the spice blend, which transforms plain ground chicken into a breakfast masterpiece.
- Ground Chicken: 1 lb (450g). Using ground chicken thigh (or a mix of thigh and breast) is recommended for juicier, more flavorful sausage.
- Pure Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon. This adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- Dried Sage: 1 teaspoon. The quintessential breakfast sausage herb.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
- Fennel Seeds: ½ teaspoon, lightly crushed. Provides a mild, sweet licorice-like flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon. Lends a touch of smoky depth.
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. For a savory foundation.
- Onion Powder: ½ teaspoon. Complements the garlic powder.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground.
- Salt: ¾ teaspoon, or to taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). For a gentle kick of heat.
- Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon, for cooking.
Kitchen Equipment
You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this recipe. Here are the basic tools you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Large Non-Stick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan
- Spatula
- Plate lined with paper towels
How to Make Chicken Breakfast Sausage Step-by-Step
Following these simple instructions will ensure you get perfectly seasoned and beautifully browned sausage patties every time. The key is to mix the ingredients thoroughly and not overcook the patties.
- Combine the ground chicken, maple syrup, sage, thyme, crushed fennel seeds, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the ingredients gently with your hands until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the patties tough.
- Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions and shape them into thin patties, about ½-inch thick. For the best flavor, you can cover and chill the patties for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to meld.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked sausage patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Time & Servings
| Type | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 10 mins |
| Total Time | 20 mins |
Serving Size: Makes 8-10 sausage patties (Serves 4)
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sausage Patties
A few simple techniques can elevate your homemade chicken sausage from good to great.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ground chicken and spices, mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Overworking the meat develops the proteins too much, resulting in a tough, rubbery texture.
- Chill the Mixture: If you have time, letting the sausage mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before forming the patties allows the flavors to deepen and meld together for a more delicious result.
- Test a Small Patty: Before you cook the entire batch, fry a small “tester” patty. This allows you to check the seasoning and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking. It’s a professional trick that guarantees a perfect final product.
- Get a Good Sear: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking the patties in batches gives them enough space to develop a beautiful, golden-brown crust. This Maillard reaction is key to developing deep, savory flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
This chicken breakfast sausage recipe is ideal for making ahead.
- Refrigerating: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place cooked and cooled patties on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Making your own delicious and healthy breakfast sausage at home is easier than you think. This chicken breakfast sausage recipe delivers all the savory, comforting flavors you love without any of the unwanted additives. It’s a simple, satisfying, and versatile recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and see for yourself how much better homemade can be.
Did you make this recipe? We would love to hear from you! Please leave a comment, rate it, and share your experience below. Your feedback helps our community of home cooks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground chicken breast instead of thigh?
Yes, you can use ground chicken breast, but the patties will be leaner and potentially a bit drier. Ground thigh meat has a higher fat content, which contributes to a juicier, more tender sausage. If using only breast meat, consider adding a little extra olive oil to the mixture to help with moisture.
Can I make these into links instead of patties?
Making sausage links requires casing and special equipment, like a sausage stuffer. This recipe is specifically designed for patties, which are much simpler to form by hand in a home kitchen without any specialized tools.
Is this chicken breakfast sausage recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is completely gluten-free. All the ingredients, including the spices and ground chicken, are naturally free of gluten. It’s a great option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.