Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This homemade breakfast chicken sausage recipe is your answer. It's packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and a fantastic way to kickstart your day with a delicious and nutritious meal. Forget those processed store-bought sausages; this recipe lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthy and satisfying breakfast you'll love. It's perfect for busy weeknights, weekend brunches, or even a quick and easy healthy dinner idea. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken breast (93% lean or higher recommended)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step will prevent sticking and make your life easier.
Mix the Magic:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, rolled oats, onion, bell pepper, egg, olive oil, sage, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough. Just gently mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Shape and Bake:
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Shape the chicken mixture into small sausage links (about 1-inch thick) or patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each sausage to allow for even cooking.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees a safe and thoroughly cooked breakfast.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the sausages from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade breakfast chicken sausage with eggs, toast, pancakes, or your favorite breakfast sides.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Sausage:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the chicken mixture can result in tough sausages. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is crucial to ensure the sausages are cooked thoroughly and safely.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Sausage: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or your preferred cheese for an extra cheesy treat.
- Herb-infused Sausage: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, parsley, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per sausage, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 15-18g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
This recipe provides a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It's a simple, quick recipe, easily adaptable to your taste preferences, and a great option for incorporating more homemade cooking into your weekly meals. Enjoy the deliciousness and the satisfaction of creating a healthy meal from scratch!