If you’ve yet to experience the pure joy of homemade Chicken Breakfast Sausage, you’re in for a treat! This flavorful breakfast staple brings together juicy ground chicken, a medley of classic breakfast spices, and just a hint of sweetness. Each golden-brown patty is bursting with savory goodness and, honestly, I find them just as irresistible on a lazy weekend as I do for busy weekday mornings. Whether you’re after a high-protein, gluten-free breakfast or simply craving a lighter, more wholesome twist on traditional sausage, these patties are guaranteed to win you over.

Chicken Breakfast Sausage Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a delicious purpose—from building deep flavor to ensuring perfect juiciness. You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff, but choosing quality ingredients truly makes your Chicken Breakfast Sausage stand out. Here’s what you’ll need, with a few handy notes along the way:

Ground chicken (1 pound, preferably thigh meat): Thigh meat keeps your sausage patties tender, juicy, and super flavorful, but breast works in a pinch for a leaner result.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the other flavors to life.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For subtle, peppery warmth and balance.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smokiness and beautiful color.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts the savory edge without overpowering the other spices.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances depth and brings that classic sausage flavor.
Dried sage (1/2 teaspoon): The essential breakfast sausage herb—don’t skip it!
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For a touch of morning heat (totally up to you).
Maple syrup or honey (1 tablespoon, optional): Just a drizzle adds classic breakfast sweetness and complexity.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon) for cooking: Helps the patties brown beautifully while keeping them from sticking.

How to Make Chicken Breakfast Sausage

Step 1: Mix the Chicken and Spices

In a large bowl, add your ground chicken, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried sage, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick), and maple syrup or honey. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine everything thoroughly. The mixture should look evenly seasoned, and don’t be shy about getting in there—this step is what brings all those amazing flavors together in every bite.

Step 2: Shape Into Patties

Divide the chicken mixture into 8 equal portions. Wet your hands lightly with water or olive oil (this keeps things from sticking), then gently form each portion into a small, thick patty about 2–3 inches across. Shape them just a bit thicker in the center so they cook evenly and stay juicy—trust me, it’s a little trick that makes all the difference.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage Patties

Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, arrange the chicken breakfast sausage patties in a single layer, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil while you cook the rest.

Step 4: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once all your patties are cooked, serve them up nice and warm! That first bite—tender, juicy, with pops of sage and the subtle sweetness from the maple syrup—will convince you why homemade Chicken Breakfast Sausage is worth every minute.

How to Serve Chicken Breakfast Sausage

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way with Chicken Breakfast Sausage. I love topping my patties with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, a dusting of smoked paprika, or even a quick drizzle of honey for an extra touch of color and flavor. If you want to keep things classic, a side of ketchup or your favorite hot sauce never disappoints.

Side Dishes

These sausage patties play so well with a wide range of breakfast favorites. Pair them with scrambled or fried eggs, oven-roasted potatoes, or a sunny fruit salad for a full breakfast platter that feels diner-worthy at home. For a low-carb feast, try them alongside sautéed spinach or avocado slices—they’re seriously versatile!

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box: tuck Chicken Breakfast Sausage patties into breakfast sandwiches with a runny egg and a slice of sharp cheese, crumble them into breakfast burritos, or layer them on a breakfast-themed charcuterie board. Guests will love the homemade touch and fresh flavor, no matter how you serve them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Breakfast Sausage patties keep beautifully. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll stay tender and juicy, ready for a quick reheat on busy mornings or afternoon snacking sessions.

Freezing

If you want to stock your freezer, you’re in luck! Arrange uncooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then pop them into a zip-top bag for up to three months. You can also freeze cooked patties; just let them cool completely, then wrap tightly before freezing. This makes homemade breakfast as convenient as it is delicious!

Reheating

To reheat, warm the patties in a microwave on medium power until hot, or gently re-crisp them in a skillet over low heat. If reheating from frozen, a few extra minutes in the pan does the trick—no need to thaw first!

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken breast instead of thigh meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken breast is a leaner alternative and works well if you prefer a firmer texture. Just keep in mind that thigh meat yields juicier, more flavorful patties, but both options are delicious.

How do I keep the patties from sticking to my hands?

Wet your hands lightly with water or rub them with a bit of olive oil before shaping the mixture. This simple trick helps form perfect sausage patties without the sticky mess.

What can I substitute for maple syrup or honey?

If you’d rather skip the sweetness, just leave it out! You can also substitute a teaspoon of coconut sugar or brown sugar, or use a sugar-free syrup for a lower-carb option.

Can I bake Chicken Breakfast Sausage instead of frying?

Yes, you can! Bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. They won’t get quite as crisp as stove-top, but cleanup is a breeze.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Chicken Breakfast Sausage is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch, store in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy protein-packed mornings all week without any rush. They reheat beautifully in both the microwave and skillet.

Final Thoughts

Trust me—once you try your own homemade Chicken Breakfast Sausage, you’ll never look back at the store-bought stuff. It’s so easy, so fresh, and so full of flavor that it literally upgrades every breakfast plate. I can’t wait for you to bring this kitchen favorite to your table and savor every bite!

Chicken Breakfast Sausage Recipe