We absolutely love whipping up recipes that pack a flavorful punch while keeping things healthy, and our Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage is a true winner. Drawing from Mediterranean vibes with its fresh spinach and tangy feta, this dish offers a lighter twist on traditional sausages using lean chicken for a guilt-free meal.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. We’ll walk you through the steps to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, bringing bold tastes right to your table.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage, we start by gathering high-quality, fresh ingredients that bring Mediterranean-inspired taste to your kitchen. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision.
- 1 pound ground chicken: We use lean, fresh ground chicken as the base for a lighter, healthier sausage alternative.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Opt for vibrant, fresh spinach leaves; chop them finely to ensure even distribution and a burst of earthy greens in every bite.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Choose tangy, authentic feta; crumble it just before adding for that signature creamy texture and sharp flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic cloves add a pungent, aromatic punch; mince them to release their full essence during mixing.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: A crisp onion provides a sweet undertone; dice it small for seamless blending without overpowering the other elements.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: We incorporate extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the Mediterranean vibe with its rich, fruity notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb infuses herbal depth; use dried for convenience, but crush it lightly to intensify the aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Kosher salt balances the flavors; adjust based on the saltiness of your feta for perfect seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, ground: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick; grind it just before use to maintain its spicy edge.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together; beat it lightly for easy incorporation into the sausage mix.
These ingredients combine to deliver a nutritious, savory dish packed with protein and veggies, making it a go-to for quick, wholesome meals.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage efficiently, we recommend gathering these essential tools. This ensures seamless mixing, shaping, and cooking of the ingredients we discussed earlier.
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, and other seasonings into a uniform mixture.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: For safely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic, which are key for adding fresh flavors to our sausage.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is crucial, so we rely on these to measure out the 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, and spices like 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for cooking the sausages to golden perfection, allowing the lean chicken and tangy feta to shine in every bite.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We find this handy for stirring and shaping the mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients like the beaten egg for binding.
By having these items ready, we make the process straightforward and enjoyable, turning fresh ingredients into a nutritious meal with minimal fuss.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through crafting Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage with simple, precise steps for a flavorful, nutritious result.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we ensure all components are prepped for seamless assembly. Begin by washing and thoroughly drying 2 cups of fresh spinach, then finely chop it to release its vibrant, earthy aroma that will infuse the sausage with a pop of green goodness. Next, peel and finely dice 1 small onion, aiming for even pieces to distribute its sweet undertones evenly. Mince 2 cloves of garlic to unleash their pungent, aromatic essence, and crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese for a tangy contrast that adds creaminess to every bite. Finally, beat 1 large egg in a small bowl until smooth, and measure out 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper to enhance the savory profile. With these steps, our ingredients are ready, setting the stage for a hearty mixture.
Mix the Sausage Filling
We combine the prepped elements in a large mixing bowl to create a cohesive, flavorful filling. Add 1 pound of ground chicken to the bowl, followed by the chopped spinach, diced onion, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix thoroughly by folding the ingredients together with firm, even strokes until the mixture forms a uniform, slightly sticky paste—envision the tangy feta melting into the lean chicken for a moist, herbaceous blend that promises a burst of Mediterranean flavors in each sausage.
Stuff the Casings
For authentic Spinach Feta Chicken Sausages, we stuff the filling into casings to achieve that classic shape and texture. Soak natural or synthetic casings in warm water for 10 minutes to make them pliable, then rinse under cold water. Attach one end of the casing to a sausage stuffer or piping bag fitted with a large nozzle. Scoop the sausage mixture into the stuffer, and gently fill the casing by squeezing the mixture through, working slowly to avoid air pockets and aiming for 4- to 6-inch lengths—feel the satisfying resistance as the casing firms up, encasing the savory, spinach-flecked filling for a juicy, homemade treat. Once filled, twist the casings at intervals to form links, and prick any air bubbles with a needle for even cooking.
Cook the Sausages
Finally, we bring our sausages to life by cooking them to golden perfection. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the stuffed sausages, ensuring they don’t touch for even browning. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs until the exterior crisps to a appetizing golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F—inhale the irresistible aroma of garlic and oregano as the juices sizzle, resulting in tender, flavorful sausages ready to serve with a satisfying snap.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation. This allows us to save time on busy weeknights while keeping flavors fresh and meals nutritious. By preparing the sausage mixture in advance, we can streamline cooking and enjoy a wholesome dish whenever needed.
Preparing the Mixture Ahead
We start by following the initial prep steps from our earlier instructions—mixing the ground chicken, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, diced onion, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg into a uniform paste. Once ready, shape the mixture into patties or links as desired for easy storage.
To make-ahead, we recommend these simple steps:
- Step 1: Divide the mixture into portion-sized amounts, such as 4-6 sausages, using a spoon or your hands for even shaping.
- Step 2: Place the shaped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flash-freeze them for 1-2 hours until firm. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Step 3: Transfer the frozen sausages to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, labeling with the date for quick reference.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s vibrant flavors and textures. We suggest the following options based on your timeline:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Up to 2 days | Store in an airtight container to preserve the fresh spinach’s crispness and feta’s tanginess. |
| Freeze | Up to 3 months | Use freezer bags to lock in moisture, ensuring the lean chicken remains tender upon reheating. |
Thawing and Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy our make-ahead sausages, we thaw and reheat them efficiently for optimal taste. Thaw frozen sausages in the refrigerator overnight to keep the mixture juicy and flavorful. Once thawed, cook in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F, as measured with a food thermometer. The result is a savory, aromatic dish with the earthy spinach and creamy feta shining through, making every bite as satisfying as if freshly made.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage recipe
It’s a versatile addition to any healthy eating plan
We know it’ll become a go-to for quick meals that pack flavor and nutrition
Try it soon and elevate your weeknight dinners effortlessly
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage?
Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage is a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired recipe using lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional sausages, packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
What ingredients are needed for Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage?
You’ll need 1 pound ground chicken, 2 cups chopped fresh spinach, 1/2 cup crumbled feta, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced onion, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1 beaten egg. These fresh ingredients combine for a savory, nutritious dish.
How do I prepare Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage?
Start by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Shape into patties or stuff into casings. Cook in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10-15 minutes. It’s simple and ready in under 30 minutes total.
Can I make Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture in advance, shape into sausages, and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet until heated through and golden, preserving the fresh flavors.
How should I store Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage?
Store uncooked sausages in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and cook thoroughly to 165°F. Reheat cooked sausages in a skillet to maintain texture and taste.
Is Spinach Feta Chicken Sausage healthy?
Yes, it’s made with lean chicken, fresh spinach, and feta, providing protein, vitamins, and lower fat than traditional sausages. It’s a nutritious option for balanced meals, ideal for those seeking flavorful, wholesome alternatives without sacrificing taste.