We love diving into our Chicken Feta Sausage recipe because it’s a fresh twist on traditional sausages blending juicy chicken with tangy feta for a Mediterranean vibe. This dish draws from Greek flavors we adore making it lighter and healthier without sacrificing taste.
We’re excited to share how simple it is to create at home offering a burst of herbs and spices that elevate any meal. Whether you’re grilling or pan-frying you’ll find it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
As we dive into crafting our Chicken Feta Sausage recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of Greek-inspired flavors. We’ll list them in the order we use them, with prep notes for precision to ensure your sausages turn out juicy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned.
Main Components
- Ground chicken: 1 pound, use lean ground chicken for a lighter texture; keep it chilled until mixing to maintain moisture.
- Feta cheese: 1 cup crumbled, opt for authentic Greek feta for its bold, tangy profile that infuses each bite with creamy zest.
Aromatics and Herbs
- Garlic cloves: 4 cloves, minced finely to release their pungent aroma and enhance the savory depth.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced to add a subtle sweetness that complements the feta without overwhelming it.
- Fresh oregano: 2 tablespoons, chopped; this herb brings an authentic Mediterranean earthiness we love for its vibrant, peppery notes.
- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped; it provides a fresh, bright green contrast to balance the richness.
Seasonings and Binders
- Egg: 1 large, beaten; acts as a binder to hold the mixture together for easy shaping.
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, plain; use these to help form patties or links without making them dense.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, freshly ground for optimal flavor enhancement.
- Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon, optional for a hint of heat that elevates the sausages’ complexity.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for lightly coating the mixture before cooking to achieve a golden sear.
These ingredients combine to create sausages that are not only healthier than traditional versions but also packed with flavor, making our Chicken Feta Sausage a go-to for quick meals.
Equipment Needed
To craft our flavorful Chicken Feta Sausage with ease, we rely on a few key tools that ensure precision and efficiency in the kitchen. Let’s break down the essential equipment, highlighting what works best for mixing, shaping, and cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A large, sturdy bowl for combining ground chicken, feta, herbs, and other ingredients; opt for one with a non-slip base to prevent spills during mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate tools for measuring out seasonings, breadcrumbs, and liquids; we recommend stainless steel sets for durability and ease of cleaning.
- Knife and cutting board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a stable cutting board to finely chop garlic, onion, oregano, and parsley, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Food processor (optional): If we want a smoother texture, this helps blend ingredients quickly, though hand-mixing works for a chunkier sausage.
- Piping bag or sausage stuffer: Ideal for shaping the mixture into sausages; we find a reusable piping bag more versatile for home cooks to create uniform links.
- Frying pan or grill pan: A non-stick skillet for pan-frying or a grill pan for achieving that authentic charred finish, perfect for our Greek-inspired recipe.
- Baking sheet with parchment paper: Useful if we choose to bake the sausages in the oven, promoting even cooking and easy cleanup.
By gathering these items, we set ourselves up for a seamless preparation process that brings out the best in our Chicken Feta Sausage.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through crafting our flavorful Chicken Feta Sausage step by step. We ensure each phase delivers juicy, tangy results packed with herbs and spices for a healthier twist on classic sausages.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we start by prepping our ingredients to enhance their flavors and ensure even distribution. Begin by finely chopping 2 cloves of garlic and 1 small onion to release their aromatic essence, which will infuse the Chicken Feta Sausage with a pungent, savory depth. Next, roughly chop ¼ cup of fresh oregano and ¼ cup of fresh parsley, aiming for vibrant green pieces that add a fresh, herbaceous brightness to every bite.
For the cheese and proteins, crumble 1 cup of Greek feta into small pieces to distribute its tangy creaminess throughout the mixture. Measure out 1 pound of lean ground chicken, 1 large egg, and ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ensuring the egg is beaten lightly and the breadcrumbs are plain for optimal binding. This preparation sets the stage for a cohesive blend that promises a moist, flavorful texture in our finished sausages.
Mix the Sausage
With ingredients prepped, we move to combining them into a cohesive mixture that captures the essence of Greek flavors. In a large mixing bowl, add the 1 pound of ground chicken as the base, then incorporate the crumbled feta, chopped garlic, onion, oregano, and parsley for a burst of tang and freshness.
Gently beat in the 1 large egg and sprinkle in the ½ cup of breadcrumbs to bind everything together, mixing thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the mixture is uniform and slightly sticky. We aim for a texture that’s not overly compacted—think moist and pliable—to lock in juices and create sausages that are tender with a hint of feta’s creamy zing in every mouthful.
Form the Sausages
Now we shape our mixture into appealing sausages, focusing on uniform sizes for even cooking. Divide the mixed sausage into 8 equal portions, roughly 4 ounces each, to ensure consistent results.
Using clean hands, roll each portion into a log about 4 inches long and 1 inch thick, applying gentle pressure to form a compact shape without overworking the mixture—this helps maintain the juicy tenderness of our Chicken Feta Sausage. For precision, we recommend placing the shaped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for cooking and allowing their herb-infused aroma to build anticipation.
Cook the Sausages
Finally, we cook the sausages using your preferred method to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. For pan-frying, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat, then add the sausages and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, flipping once for an even sear that enhances their savory, feta-laced taste.
Alternatively, for grilling, preheat your grill pan to medium-high and grill the sausages for 6-7 minutes per side, basting with a light olive oil brush for extra crispness—monitor closely to avoid flare-ups. If baking, arrange on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until fully cooked and exuding a mouthwatering aroma of herbs and cheese. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness, ensuring safe, succulent results every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Chicken Feta Sausage recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it ahead to save time without sacrificing that juicy, tangy flavor inspired by Greek herbs and spices. By mixing and shaping the sausages in advance, we ensure a quick path to a flavorful meal, whether for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Preparing the Mixture Ahead
To get started, we begin right after combining the ingredients as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. First, mix the ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped garlic, onion, oregano, parsley, egg, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl until evenly incorporated. This step locks in the fresh, aromatic essence that makes our Chicken Feta Sausage stand out.
Once mixed, shape the mixture into uniform logs or patties as described earlier. At this point, we have two primary options for storage to maintain texture and flavor:
- Refrigerate for short-term use: Place the shaped sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an airtight container, ensuring they are not touching to prevent sticking. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This method keeps the sausages moist and ready for cooking, allowing the flavors to meld for an even more vibrant taste.
- Freeze for longer storage: For extended make-ahead planning, arrange the shaped sausages on a baking sheet and freeze them individually until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freezing preserves the tender juiciness while extending shelf life.
Storage Tips and Durations
Proper storage is key to keeping our Chicken Feta Sausage safe and delicious. Below is a quick reference table for storage methods, including recommended durations and tips based on food safety guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Optimal Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Store in the coldest part of the fridge; label with the date to track freshness and avoid any risk of spoilage. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use airtight packaging to prevent freezer burn; thaw in the refrigerator overnight for safe handling. |
Reheating and Cooking from Storage
When we’re ready to enjoy our make-ahead Chicken Feta Sausage, we simply thaw if frozen, then cook as per the original instructions. For refrigerated sausages, pan-fry or grill directly for 8-10 minutes per side until the exterior turns golden and crispy, with the inside remaining juicy and infused with feta’s tangy bite. If cooking from frozen, add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
Remember, always check for signs of spoilage before cooking, and reheat gently to preserve the herbs’ fresh aroma and the sausage’s overall texture. This approach keeps our Chicken Feta Sausage as a reliable, flavorful staple in our kitchen routine.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed sharing our Chicken Feta Sausage recipe with you. It’s a fresh twist that brings bold flavors to everyday meals while keeping things light and simple.
As we wrap up, remember this dish fits seamlessly into our busy lives. Experiment with it and discover how it becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Feta Sausage?
Chicken Feta Sausage is a lighter, healthier twist on traditional sausages, featuring juicy ground chicken mixed with tangy Greek feta cheese and fresh herbs. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, it’s simple to make at home and perfect for quick meals or gatherings, offering a flavorful blend of garlic, onion, oregano, and parsley.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Feta Sausage?
To make Chicken Feta Sausage, you’ll need lean ground chicken, crumbled Greek feta cheese, fresh herbs like oregano and parsley, garlic, onion, an egg for binding, breadcrumbs for texture, and seasonings. These high-quality ingredients ensure a moist, flavorful result that’s both nutritious and delicious.
What equipment do I need to make Chicken Feta Sausage?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a knife and cutting board for chopping, and a food processor if you want a smoother mix. For shaping, use a piping bag or sausage stuffer; for cooking, opt for a frying pan, grill pan, or baking sheet with parchment paper to streamline the process.
How do I prepare Chicken Feta Sausage?
Start by chopping garlic, onion, oregano, and parsley. Mix with ground chicken, feta, egg, and breadcrumbs in a bowl. Shape into logs, then cook by pan-frying, grilling, or baking until golden and juicy—use a meat thermometer for safety. The whole process is straightforward and takes about 30 minutes of prep.
Can I make Chicken Feta Sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Feta Sausage in advance. Shape the sausages and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to cook fresh meals quickly without much effort.
How should I store Chicken Feta Sausage?
Store uncooked sausages in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage. For reheating, thaw frozen ones in the fridge overnight, then cook as directed to maintain juiciness and flavor—always ensure they reach a safe internal temperature.
Is Chicken Feta Sausage healthy?
Yes, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional sausages, using lean ground chicken and nutrient-rich ingredients like feta and fresh herbs. It’s lower in fat and packed with flavor from garlic, onion, and herbs, making it great for balanced meals while still being delicious and satisfying.