Let’s be real—breakfast can get boring fast. If your mornings are stuck on repeat with the same old toast, eggs, or sugar-packed cereals, it’s time to shake things up—deliciously. As someone who’s tried every “healthy” breakfast trend out there, trust me when I say: chicken breakfast sausage is a total game changer.
Not only is it way lighter than traditional pork sausage, but it’s also packed with lean protein to keep you full and fueled all morning long. And get this—it only takes about 20 minutes to whip up from scratch! Whether you're meal prepping for the week or just need a quick fix on a busy weekday, this chicken breakfast sausage recipe is about to become your new morning BFF.
Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this flavorful chicken breakfast sausage is seasoned to perfection, pan-seared for that crispy edge, and totally customizable. Gluten-free? Low-carb? Clean eating? Check, check, and check.
Give your breakfast plate a fresh, savory upgrade—and let chicken breakfast sausage bring some much-needed excitement back to your morning routine.
Why Chicken Breakfast Sausage Deserves a Spot on Your Table (Like, ASAP)
Let’s talk breakfast. For decades, pork sausage has reigned supreme on our morning plates—but times (and tastes) are changing. If you're looking for something a little lighter, a lot leaner, and just as flavorful, let me introduce you to your new favorite: chicken breakfast sausage.
This isn’t just some trendy swap—chicken breakfast sausage is a smart, satisfying alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste. Packed with protein and fewer calories than traditional pork sausage, it’s winning over food lovers who want to eat clean without giving up their beloved savory breakfasts.
And the best part? It’s endlessly versatile. Whether you're sliding it next to scrambled eggs, stacking it inside an English muffin, or laying it gently atop avocado toast (chef’s kiss!), chicken breakfast sausage fits right in. It’s also a meal prep dream—make a batch ahead of time and you’ll breeze through busy mornings with a smile (and a full belly).
Unlike the store-bought stuff, which often hides fillers and mystery ingredients, this homemade chicken breakfast sausage gives you full control over what goes in. No preservatives. No weird additives. Just real, wholesome flavor you can feel good about.
Jump to:
Ingredients
- Ground chicken (preferably thigh meat for better flavor and moisture)
- Olive oil (plus extra for cooking)
- Maple syrup (adds a touch of sweetness without refined sugar)
- Dried sage (essential for that classic breakfast sausage flavor)
- Dried thyme
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Apple cider vinegar (helps tenderize the meat)
See recipe card for quantities.
Ingredient Notes & Easy Swaps
- Ground chicken: Don’t have ground chicken on hand? No problem! Ground turkey is a fantastic stand-in and just as lean—some folks even prefer the slightly milder flavor. Either way, it’s a healthier choice than traditional pork sausage.
- Maple syrup: Looking to keep things sweet without the sugar crash? Maple syrup adds a natural touch of sweetness, but you can easily swap in honey if that’s what you’ve got. Going sugar-free? Feel free to skip it entirely—your chicken breakfast sausage will still shine.
- Herbs: Dried herbs do the trick beautifully, but if you’ve got fresh ones on hand, go for it! Just remember the rule of thumb: 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs equals about 1 teaspoon of dried.
- Spice it your way: Not everyone wants a morning kick—so feel free to dial the cayenne up or down depending on your tolerance (or your audience). Kids in the house? A pinch might be plenty.
- Feeling fancy? For a slightly sweet, fall-inspired twist, mix in a spoonful of finely diced apple to create your own homemade chicken apple sausage patties. It’s cozy, delicious, and totally brunch-worthy.
Instructions
Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices: sage, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar to the spice mixture and stir until well combined.
Pro tip: Making the seasoning mix first ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your chicken breakfast sausage.
Season the Ground Chicken
- Place the ground chicken in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the seasoning mixture over the meat.
- Add the olive oil to help keep the lean meat moist during cooking.
- Using clean hands, gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausage tough.
Pro tip: For the best flavor, let the seasoned meat rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or even overnight) before cooking. This isn't required but helps the flavors develop.
Form the Patties
- Divide the seasoned chicken mixture into 8 equal portions.
- Gently form each portion into a patty about ½-inch thick.
- If the mixture is sticking to your hands, wet your hands slightly with cold water.
Pro tip: Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents the patties from puffing up in the middle during cooking.
Cook the Chicken Breakfast Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.
- Once hot, add the patties to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd (cook in batches if needed).
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is nicely browned.
- Remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro tip: Don't press down on the patties while cooking as this squeezes out the juices and can make them dry.
- Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
Combine all dry spices, maple syrup, and vinegar for even flavor distribution.
- Step 2: Season the Ground Chicken
Gently mix everything together without overworking the meat.
- Step 3: Form the Patties
Shape mixture into ½-inch patties, wet hands help prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Cook the Chicken Breakfast Sausage
Cook until browned and internal temp reaches 165°F.
Hints & Expert Cooking Tips
- Boost flavor authentically: Want your homemade chicken breakfast sausage to mimic the flavor profile of traditional sausage? Try adding a teaspoon of fennel seeds. This small addition delivers a big boost in taste, giving your patties that distinct and familiar sausage aroma.
- Add moisture naturally: Ground chicken can be leaner and a bit drier than other meats, so to keep your chicken breakfast sausage tender and juicy, consider mixing in a small amount of grated apple or a spoonful of applesauce. Both add subtle sweetness and lock in moisture without altering the savory flavor.
- Save time with batch cooking: Making chicken breakfast sausage from scratch doesn’t have to be a daily task. Double your recipe and freeze half of the uncooked patties. This way, you always have a quick, protein-packed breakfast option ready to go on busy mornings.
- Improve texture with a simple trick: If you prefer a finer, more cohesive texture similar to traditional sausage, pulse the ground chicken a few times in a food processor before adding your seasonings. This helps bind the ingredients and gives your chicken breakfast sausage a classic sausage-like bite.
- Avoid overcooking: Because chicken is lower in fat than pork, it cooks faster and can dry out if left on the heat too long. Cook your chicken breakfast sausage just until it reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F), and remove it promptly to keep it juicy.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
Making your own chicken breakfast sausage at home means you can easily adapt the recipe to fit your dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are several simple ways to switch things up without sacrificing taste or texture.
Paleo Chicken Sausage
For a Paleo-friendly version of chicken breakfast sausage, skip the maple syrup altogether or replace it with a small amount of date paste for a touch of natural sweetness. Make sure all your spices are free from fillers, preservatives, or anti-caking agents to keep things strictly Paleo.
Whole30 Chicken Breakfast Sausage
Doing a Whole30 reset? This variation keeps your chicken breakfast sausage compliant without missing out on flavor. Simply omit the maple syrup and use grated apple to add a bit of moisture and subtle sweetness. Be sure to use Whole30-approved spices—no additives or hidden sugars.
Spicy Chicken Breakfast Sausage
If you love a kick in the morning, turn up the heat in your chicken breakfast sausage. Double the amount of cayenne pepper, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes, and add a finely diced jalapeño to the mix. It’s a bold and flavorful twist that pairs perfectly with eggs and avocado.
Italian-Style Chicken Breakfast Sausage
Craving a Mediterranean vibe? Swap out the sage and thyme for a generous spoonful of Italian seasoning. Mix in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to give your chicken breakfast sausage an herby, savory boost that’s perfect in breakfast wraps or sandwiches.
Gluten-Free Chicken Sausage
The base recipe for chicken breakfast sausage is naturally gluten-free, but it’s always wise to check the labels on your spice blends. Some pre-packaged seasonings can contain gluten as a binder or filler, so opt for single-ingredient spices or certified gluten-free versions when in doubt.
Equipment Recommendations
- Cast-iron skillet: Provides even heating and creates a perfect crust on your breakfast patties
- Instant-read thermometer: Takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken safely
- Food scale: Helps create equally sized patties for consistent cooking
- Parchment paper: Useful for separating patties if you're storing them
Budget alternative: Any heavy-bottomed non-stick pan works well if you don't have cast iron.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Making chicken breakfast sausage from scratch is a fantastic way to stay ahead of your mornings. With a little planning, you can keep your fridge and freezer stocked with flavorful, protein-packed patties ready to go whenever you need them.
Fridge Storage
Cooked chicken breakfast sausage patties will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for a make-ahead breakfast lineup. If you’ve seasoned the meat but haven’t cooked it yet, be sure to use it within 24 hours, or freeze it to maintain freshness and food safety.
Freezing Instructions
- Raw patties: After shaping your raw chicken breakfast sausage patties, lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and can be cooked straight from frozen with just a few extra minutes on the skillet.
- Cooked patties: Once fully cooled, wrap each chicken breakfast sausage patty individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months and are great for reheating on busy mornings.
- Reheating: For best results, thaw patties overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, or microwave for 30–60 seconds, depending on your preference and microwave strength.
Meal Prep Ideas
- Batch cook on Sunday: Prep a large batch of chicken breakfast sausage to cover your week. This saves time, minimizes cleanup, and guarantees a nutritious breakfast ready in minutes.
- Grab-and-go boxes: Pair patties with chopped fruit, hard-boiled eggs, or overnight oats in portable containers for quick weekday breakfasts.
- DIY breakfast sandwiches: Layer your sausage with eggs, cheese, and your favorite bread or English muffins. Wrap and freeze individually—just heat and eat!
The Morning Diner Secret to Juicy Chicken Sausage
Here’s a breakfast tip whispered by a short-order cook who knew how to keep regulars coming back: if you want your chicken breakfast sausage to taste like it was made fresh in a cozy corner diner—juicy, flavorful, and tender every time—this is the trick.
Just before shaping your patties, mix in one tablespoon of cold butter, chopped into tiny pieces. Not melted, not soft—cold. Fold it into the seasoned ground chicken gently.
As the chicken breakfast sausage cooks, the butter slowly melts, creating little bursts of moisture that transform lean chicken into something truly indulgent. It’s that buttery, satisfying bite you’d expect from a rich pork sausage—but light enough to keep your morning feeling fresh.
It’s a quiet trick, but once you know it, your breakfasts will never be the same. internal temperature, but they should still be juicy for best results.
FAQ
Is chicken sausage for breakfast healthy?
Yes, chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. It’s typically lower in fat and calories while still being high in protein, which helps keep you full and energized through the morning. Plus, when you make it at home, you can control the ingredients—no preservatives, no mystery fillers, just clean, savory goodness.
What gives breakfast sausage its distinct flavor?
It’s all about the herbs and spices! That classic breakfast sausage flavor comes from a combo of sage, thyme, black pepper, and often a subtle sweetness like maple syrup. Add a pinch of garlic and onion powder, and you’ve nailed that warm, savory, slightly sweet profile we all know and love—whether it’s pork or chicken breakfast sausage.
Is Chick-fil-A sausage chicken sausage?
Nope, not quite. Chick-fil-A’s sausage is made from pork, not chicken. So if you’re specifically looking for chicken breakfast sausage, you’ll want to look elsewhere—or better yet, make your own at home using lean ground chicken and your favorite spices!
What are the spices in chicken breakfast sausage?
The usual spice mix includes sage, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of cayenne if you like a little kick. Some recipes also use fennel seeds for that extra "sausage-y" depth. The blend gives chicken sausage its cozy, comforting flavor while keeping things light and lean.
Meet Your Morning MVP: Chicken Breakfast Sausage
Let’s face it—mornings can be chaotic. But that doesn’t mean breakfast has to be boring (or full of mystery meat). Enter your new go-to: homemade chicken breakfast sausage. It’s not just a lighter, healthier swap for pork—it’s a genuinely tasty way to start the day that feels comforting, satisfying, and easy to love.
What I personally love about this recipe is how flexible it is. These savory patties slide right into any breakfast setup—from a humble plate of eggs and toast to a trendy sweet potato breakfast bowl. And if you’ve already tried my Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet or the Homemade Breakfast Turkey Sausage, then you know I’m all about keeping things flavorful, fuss-free, and family-approved.
Making your own chicken breakfast sausage means you’re in control: no preservatives, no fillers—just real ingredients you can feel good about. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to prep, and you can freeze extra patties for a week of no-stress breakfasts.
So why not whip up a batch this weekend? Your Monday morning self will be grinning, coffee in hand, as that skillet sizzles. Don’t be afraid to play around with the spice levels or try a variation—because the best breakfast is the one that works for you.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Chicken Breakfast Sausage recipe:
Homemade Chicken Breakfast Sausage
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Skillet (preferably cast iron)
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Parchment paper
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground chicken Preferably thigh meat for moisture
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil Plus extra for cooking
- 1 tablespoon Maple syrup Optional, adds natural sweetness
- 1 teaspoon Dried sage Essential for classic sausage flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional, adjust to spice preference
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar Helps tenderize the meat
Instructions
- Combine sage, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir in maple syrup and apple cider vinegar until well blended.
- Add spice mixture and olive oil to ground chicken in a large bowl. Gently mix with hands without overworking the meat.
- Divide mixture into 8 equal portions and form into ½-inch thick patties. Wet hands if needed to prevent sticking.
- Heat skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and 165°F inside.
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