Maple Chicken Breakfast Sausage Recipe

These Maple Chicken Breakfast Sausages are a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional pork sausage. Made with lean ground chicken, a blend of savory spices, and a touch of pure maple syrup, these sausages are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you enjoy them as part of a hearty breakfast, on a sandwich, or as a snack, they’re sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make with minimal cleanup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Maple Chicken Breakfast Sausages offer a healthier take on a classic breakfast favorite. The lean ground chicken keeps them light, while the blend of spices like smoked paprika, sage, and thyme adds a depth of flavor. The maple syrup gives the sausages a delicious sweetness, making them both savory and slightly sweet. Plus, they cook up in minutes and are easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) ground chicken (92–94% lean)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (1/4 teaspoon if using ground pepper)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) pure maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons (15–30ml) olive oil, for cooking
• Optional garnish: fresh thyme & fresh sage

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, use a large spoon or spatula to mix together all the ingredients, except for the olive oil. The mixture will be sticky, so it might be easier to use your hands to combine everything evenly.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the olive oil to the pan. (If using a nonstick skillet, medium heat is typically best.)

Step 3: Form the Patties

Scoop about 1.5–2 tablespoons (35–45g) of the sausage mixture and drop it into the hot pan. Flatten the mixture slightly with the back of a spoon or spatula to form a patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making around 8 patties, depending on the size of your skillet. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Sausages

Cook the sausage patties for 5 minutes on the first side. Then flip them over and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the sausage patties to a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Serve the sausages warm, optionally garnished with fresh thyme and sage.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 8 sausages (depending on the size of the patties)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variations: You can experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or marjoram for a slightly different flavor.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter sausage, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or a pinch of brown sugar.
• Add Vegetables: Try adding finely grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini to the sausage mixture for extra texture and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover sausages can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or place them in a covered skillet over low heat on the stove.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will work similarly to ground chicken in this recipe.

2. Can I freeze these sausages?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I make these sausages spicier?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for some heat.

4. Do I have to use fennel seeds?

Fennel seeds are optional but add a lovely anise-like flavor that enhances the sausage’s taste. You can omit them if you prefer.

5. Can I use a different oil for cooking?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even butter in place of olive oil for a different flavor.

6. Can I make mini sausage patties instead?

Yes, you can make smaller patties to use as appetizers or for kids’ meals. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through.

7. Can I add cheese to the sausage mixture?

Yes, you can mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a cheesy twist on these sausages.

8. How do I prevent the sausage from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan is hot before adding the oil, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the sausages cook evenly and don’t stick.

9. Can I bake these sausages instead of pan-frying them?

Yes, you can bake the sausage patties at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

10. Can I use pre-cooked ground chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use raw ground chicken for optimal texture and flavor, as pre-cooked chicken will change the consistency of the sausages.

Conclusion

These Maple Chicken Breakfast Sausages are the perfect balance of savory and sweet. They’re a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional sausages, made with lean ground chicken and flavored with aromatic herbs and pure maple syrup. These sausages are easy to make, perfect for breakfast, and can be enjoyed as part of a hearty meal or on their own. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed breakfast or meal prep for the week, these sausages are sure to satisfy!

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