Homemade Chicken Breakfast Sausage Patties

Homemade chicken breakfast sausage is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. Made with lean ground chicken and a blend of savory seasonings, it delivers the classic breakfast sausage flavor without excess fat. The addition of pure maple syrup provides a touch of natural sweetness, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.

This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to cook a batch ahead of time and store it in the freezer for quick and convenient breakfasts. Whether you’re making sausage patties for a hearty breakfast plate, stuffing them into a breakfast sandwich, or adding them to a breakfast casserole, this homemade version is far superior to store-bought options.

If you’re looking for a flavorful, protein-packed breakfast option that’s free of preservatives and artificial ingredients, this homemade chicken breakfast sausage is the perfect choice. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy breakfast staple that the whole family will love.

Key Benefits

Making homemade chicken breakfast sausage comes with several advantages, from health benefits to customizable flavors. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Healthier Alternative to Pork Sausage

Traditional breakfast sausages are often made with ground pork, which can be high in saturated fat. By using lean ground chicken, this recipe offers a lighter option while still delivering the classic breakfast sausage flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a high-protein breakfast without excess grease.

2. Made with Simple, Wholesome Ingredients

Unlike store-bought sausages, which often contain preservatives, fillers, and artificial flavors, this homemade version is made with fresh, natural ingredients. You control exactly what goes into your sausage, ensuring a cleaner, healthier breakfast.

3. Balanced Sweet and Savory Flavor

This recipe combines ground chicken with warm spices like sage, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes for depth of flavor. A touch of pure maple syrup enhances the taste, creating a perfect blend of sweet and savory without overpowering the dish.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezer-Friendly

Homemade chicken breakfast sausage is ideal for meal prep. You can make a large batch, cook the patties, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes it easy to have a protein-packed breakfast ready in minutes.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Want a spicier sausage? Add extra red pepper flakes. Prefer a smoky flavor? A dash of smoked paprika will do the trick. You can also substitute ground turkey for chicken if desired.

6. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple steps—mixing the ingredients, forming patties, and cooking them on the stovetop—you can have a delicious homemade breakfast sausage ready in under 30 minutes.

By making your own chicken breakfast sausage, you’re not only choosing a healthier breakfast option but also enjoying a fresher, more flavorful alternative to store-bought varieties. Plus, it’s easy to freeze, making it a convenient addition to your morning routine.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken – Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option, or opt for ground dark meat for extra juiciness.
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup – Adds a hint of natural sweetness to balance the savory spices.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the sausage.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick and depth to the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Contributes a savory, aromatic note.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage – A key ingredient in classic breakfast sausage, providing an earthy, slightly peppery taste.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor for extra richness.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a slight spicy kick.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Provides a mild, herbaceous undertone.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking) – Helps achieve a golden-brown crust when frying the patties.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds – Gives a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor often found in traditional sausages.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Enhances the warmth of the spices.
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and color to the sausage mixture.

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:

• For a leaner option – Use ground chicken breast, but keep in mind that it may be slightly drier.
• For extra moisture – If using very lean chicken, mix in a teaspoon of olive oil or an egg yolk to keep the sausage tender.
• Ground turkey alternative – You can substitute ground turkey for chicken while keeping the seasoning the same.
• Sweetener options – Instead of maple syrup, try honey or brown sugar for a slightly different sweetness profile.

Instruction

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, pure maple syrup, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and dried thyme.
2. Use a spoon or your hands to gently mix until everything is evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the sausage tough.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

1. Lightly grease your hands with a little oil to prevent sticking.
2. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball, then flatten into a ½-inch-thick patty.
3. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the patties on a parchment-lined tray.
4. If time allows, cover and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes—this helps the flavors meld and makes the patties easier to handle.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage Patties

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, arrange the patties in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. To absorb excess oil, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 4: Alternative Cooking Methods

• Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties in a single layer and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve or Store

• Enjoy immediately with eggs, toast, or inside a breakfast sandwich.
• Let the cakes cool, and place them in an airtight container.
  • Refrigerator: Store for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Breakfast Sausage

 Use the Right Ground Chicken:
Opt for ground chicken with some fat content (a mix of white and dark meat) to keep the patties moist. If using extra-lean ground chicken, add a teaspoon of olive oil or an egg yolk to prevent dryness.

 Don’t Overmix the Meat:
Mixing the ingredients too much can make the sausage patties dense and tough. Stir just until everything is combined for the best texture.

 Chill the Mixture for Better Handling:
Refrigerating the sausage mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping the patties helps firm up the meat, making it easier to work with. This also allows the flavors to develop.

 Shape Evenly for Even Cooking:
To ensure consistent cooking, make all patties the same size—about ½ inch thick. Using a measuring spoon or a small cookie scoop helps keep them uniform.

 Check for Doneness with a Thermometer:
Chicken sausage should be fully cooked to 165°F (75°C) internally. A meat thermometer ensures food safety without overcooking.

 Avoid a Dry Texture by Cooking Over Medium Heat:
Cooking too fast on high heat can dry out the patties. Keep the heat at medium and allow them to cook evenly for a juicy bite.

 Drain Excess Moisture for a Better Sear:
Before cooking, pat the formed patties with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a golden-brown crust.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Spicy Kick:
Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Savory Herb Blend:
Boost the herbal notes by adding ½ teaspoon each of dried rosemary and marjoram.

Garlic and Onion Lovers:
For a stronger savory flavor, double the garlic powder and onion powder or use fresh minced garlic and sautéed onions in the mix.

Maple-Brown Sugar Sweetness:
Swap out maple syrup for 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to create a deeper caramelized sweetness.

Smoky BBQ Sausage:
Add ½ teaspoon of liquid smoke and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the patties a mild BBQ-style taste.

Cheesy Sausage Patties:
Mix in ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a melty, flavorful twist.

Herb & Apple Sausage:
For a subtle sweetness, fold in ¼ cup finely diced apples and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon.

Turkey Alternative:
Instead of chicken, use ground turkey while keeping the same seasoning. This gives you another lean, high-protein breakfast option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Refrigerate for Quick Meals:
Store cooked sausage patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze for Later:
Lay cooked or raw patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents sticking. They last up to 3 months frozen.

Reheat Without Drying Out:
Warm patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade chicken breakfast sausage is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of breakfast dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a classic morning plate, a quick grab-and-go meal, or a protein-packed brunch, these serving ideas will help you make the most of your sausage patties.

Classic Breakfast Pairings

Traditional Breakfast Plate – Serve the sausage patties with scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and toast for a complete and satisfying meal. Add a side of fresh fruit for natural sweetness.

Breakfast Sandwich – Layer a chicken sausage patty, a fried egg, and a slice of cheese between an English muffin, biscuit, or bagel for a hearty, protein-rich sandwich.

Breakfast Burrito or Taco – Crumble the sausage and wrap it in a flour tortilla with scrambled eggs, shredded cheese, and salsa for a quick, flavorful breakfast burrito.

Savory Oatmeal Bowl – For a unique twist, serve crumbled chicken sausage over savory oatmeal, topped with sautéed spinach and a soft-boiled egg.

Lighter and Healthy Serving Ideas

Protein-Packed Breakfast Bowl – Pair the sausage with quinoa, sautéed kale, avocado, and a poached egg for a nutritious start to the day.

Low-Carb/Keto Breakfast – Serve alongside sautéed mushrooms, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a dollop of mashed avocado for a balanced, low-carb meal.

Greek Yogurt and Fruit Parfait – Enjoy a sausage patty with a side of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries and honey for a mix of sweet and savory flavors.

Creative Brunch Ideas

Sweet and Savory Pairing – Serve the sausage alongside fluffy pancakes, waffles, or French toast, drizzled with pure maple syrup for a delicious balance of flavors.

Eggs Benedict Twist – Replace traditional Canadian bacon with a chicken sausage patty in eggs Benedict, topped with hollandaise sauce on an English muffin.

Breakfast Casserole – Incorporate crumbled sausage into a baked egg casserole with bell peppers, onions, and cheese for a meal-prep-friendly brunch dish.

On-the-Go Meal Prep Options

Make-Ahead Breakfast Wraps – Wrap sausage patties in whole wheat tortillas with eggs and spinach, then freeze for a quick, heat-and-eat breakfast.

Sausage and Cheese Muffins – Mix cooked crumbled sausage into an egg muffin batter with cheese and bake for a protein-rich, handheld breakfast.

Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep – Cook extra sausage patties and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat for a fast, stress-free breakfast during busy mornings.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken breakfast sausage is a healthier, flavorful alternative to store-bought options. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy juicy, protein-rich sausage patties perfect for meal prep, breakfast sandwiches, or classic breakfast plates.

Customize the flavors, freeze for later, and cook fresh whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal. Once you try this easy and delicious recipe, you’ll never want store-bought sausage again!

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