What Is Chicken Sausage? (and Why You’re Going To Love It)

Chicken sausage is a type of sausage made from ground chicken meat, seasoned with various herbs and spices. It is a popular ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, offering a leaner and healthier alternative to traditional pork or beef sausages. Chicken sausage is available in a wide variety of flavors, from mild to spicy, and can be enjoyed grilled, roasted, pan-fried, or boiled.

Types of Chicken Sausage

There are two main types of chicken sausage:

• Fresh Chicken Sausage: Made from raw chicken meat and must be cooked before eating.
• Smoked Chicken Sausage: Made from cooked chicken meat and has a smoky flavor.

Nutritional Value of Chicken Sausage

Chicken sausage is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. A typical serving (3 ounces) of chicken sausage contains:

• Calories: 150-200
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 10-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: 400-600 milligrams
• Potassium: 200-300 milligrams
• Iron: 2-3 milligrams
• Vitamin B12: 1-2 micrograms

Benefits of Chicken Sausage

• Leaner than pork or beef sausage: Chicken sausage is a lower-fat and lower-calorie option than traditional sausages.
• High in protein: Chicken sausage provides a good amount of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Chicken sausage is a good source of vitamins B12, iron, and potassium.
• Versatile: Chicken sausage can be used in a variety of dishes, from breakfast sandwiches to pasta sauces.

How to Choose the Right Chicken Sausage

When choosing chicken sausage, look for the following:

• Freshness: Choose chicken sausage that is bright pink in color and has no off-odors.
• Ingredients: Read the ingredient list carefully and avoid sausages with added fillers or preservatives.
• Flavor: Choose a flavor that suits your taste preferences.
• Brand: Choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality chicken sausage.

How to Cook Chicken Sausage

Chicken sausage can be cooked in various ways:

• Grilling: Grill chicken sausage over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Roasting: Roast chicken sausage in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Pan-frying: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken sausage for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
• Boiling: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook chicken sausage for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Recipes with Chicken Sausage

Chicken sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Chicken Sausage and Pepper Skillet: Sauté chicken sausage, bell peppers, and onions in a skillet until cooked through.
• Chicken Sausage Pasta: Cook chicken sausage and add it to your favorite pasta sauce.
• Chicken Sausage Breakfast Burritos: Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, chicken sausage, and your favorite toppings.
• Chicken Sausage Pizza: Top your pizza crust with chicken sausage, your favorite sauce, and toppings.

What You Need to Know

1. Is chicken sausage healthy?

Yes, chicken sausage is a healthier option than traditional pork or beef sausages due to its lower fat and calorie content.

2. How long does chicken sausage last?

Fresh chicken sausage should be cooked within 2 days of purchase. Smoked chicken sausage can last for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I freeze chicken sausage?

Yes, you can freeze both fresh and smoked chicken sausage. Freeze fresh chicken sausage for up to 2 months and smoked chicken sausage for up to 6 months.

4. What are some good substitutes for chicken sausage?

Some good substitutes for chicken sausage include ground turkey, lean ground beef, or tofu.

5. How do I make chicken sausage from scratch?

Making chicken sausage from scratch is a relatively simple process. You will need ground chicken, your favorite seasonings, and a food processor. Combine all ingredients in the food processor and pulse until well combined. Form the mixture into sausages and cook according to your desired method.