Apple chicken sausage is the perfect way to start your day. Imagine waking up to the smell of warm, perfectly browned sausage sizzling in the skillet. The combination of juicy apples, tender ground chicken, and aromatic spices fills your kitchen with a comforting, cozy aroma. Whether you’re enjoying a slow morning with a hot cup of coffee or meal-prepping for a busy week, this homemade apple chicken sausage is about to become your new breakfast favorite.
Forget the store-bought versions loaded with preservatives—this healthy chicken sausage is made from simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s packed with lean protein, natural sweetness from fresh apples, and just the right blend of herbs and spices to give you that perfect balance of savory and sweet.
If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast that fits into your healthy lifestyle, this recipe is for you. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and free from artificial ingredients, making it a fantastic option for those who want a cleaner, homemade alternative.
Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how easy it is to make at home!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Apple Chicken Sausage
This isn’t your average chicken breakfast sausage—it’s an upgrade in every way! Here’s why you’ll want to make this recipe on repeat:
✅ High in Protein, Low in Fat – Chicken is naturally lean, making this a healthier alternative to traditional beef sausage. It keeps you full and energized without the extra grease.
✅ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The sweetness of apples paired with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme creates a cozy, comforting taste with every bite.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch, store them in the fridge or freezer, and have a quick protein-packed breakfast ready to go in minutes!
✅ No Preservatives or Fillers – Unlike store-bought sausage, this recipe is made with real, whole-food ingredients, giving you total control over what goes into your body.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Enjoy these sausage patties on their own, with eggs and toast, in breakfast bowls, or even crumbled over salads and grain bowls.
If you’re looking for a homemade sausage recipe that’s not only delicious but also clean, nourishing, and satisfying, this one is a must-try!
Key Ingredients for the Best Apple Chicken Sausage
This homemade sausage recipe comes together with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients:
🛒 Ground Chicken – The base of this recipe! Choose 93% lean ground chicken for a perfect balance of juiciness and flavor.
🍏 Apple – Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp apples work best, but Granny Smith adds a slight tartness if you prefer.
🧅 Onion – Brings a mild, savory depth while keeping the sausage juicy. Use white or yellow onion for the best results.
🧄 Garlic Powder – Enhances the umami richness without overpowering the sweetness of the apples.
🌿 Dried Thyme & Celery Seed – Classic sausage seasonings that provide an earthy, herbaceous touch.
🧂 Nutmeg & Cinnamon – These warm spices bring out the natural sweetness of the apples, making each bite extra cozy and flavorful.
🌶️ Chipotle Powder (Optional) – A pinch of chipotle or red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat for those who like a little kick.
🛢️ Olive Oil – Helps create a golden-brown crust when pan-frying the sausage patties.
These simple yet powerful ingredients come together to create a perfectly seasoned, sweet-and-savory sausage that’s anything but boring!
How to Make Apple Chicken Sausage
This homemade sausage recipe comes together in just a few simple steps:
1️⃣ Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
✔️ Ground chicken
✔️ Finely diced apple
✔️ Chopped onion
✔️ All the seasonings (garlic powder, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.)
Use a fork or your hands to gently mix everything together until the ingredients are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausage tough.
2️⃣ Shape the Patties
Scoop out ¼ cup portions of the sausage mixture and shape them into small patties about ½ inch thick. Flattening them slightly helps them cook evenly.
3️⃣ Cook Until Golden & Juicy
Heat a cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook the sausage patties for 5-6 minutes per side, flipping once, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
Enjoy your homemade apple chicken sausage with:
🍳 Scrambled or fried eggs
🍞 Whole grain toast
🥣 A breakfast bowl with avocado and greens
🥗 Crumbled over a fresh salad
These sausage patties are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep!
Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage Patties
Want your apple chicken sausage to turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly browned every time? Follow these expert tips:
✔️ Finely Chop the Apples & Onions – This ensures even distribution throughout the sausage mixture, preventing large chunks from making the patties fall apart.
✔️ Preheat the Skillet Properly – A well-heated pan ensures the patties get a beautiful golden-brown crust while locking in moisture.
✔️ Flatten the Patties to ½ Inch Thick – This helps them cook evenly. If they’re too thick, they’ll take longer to cook and may stay raw in the middle.
✔️ Chill Before Cooking – If the mixture is too soft or sticky, refrigerate the patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
✔️ Don’t Overmix the Meat – Mixing too much can make the sausage tough and chewy. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
✔️ Cook in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cooking in small batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
✔️ Use a Meat Thermometer – For perfectly cooked sausage, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
By following these tips, you’ll get crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned apple chicken sausage patties every single time!
How to Store & Reheat Apple Chicken Sausage
Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, this sausage stores beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
Storing Cooked Sausage
Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Let the sausage cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Reheating Instructions
Microwave: Heat for 1 minute on medium power.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Oven: Warm at 350°F for 10 minutes if reheating a large batch.
These easy storage and reheating tips make it simple to have a quick, protein-packed breakfast ready to go any day of the week!
Delicious Ways to Serve Apple Chicken Sausage
These savory and sweet sausage patties are incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious serving ideas to make the most of them:
- Classic Breakfast Plate – Serve with scrambled or fried eggs and a slice of whole grain toast for a hearty meal.
- Over a Fresh Salad – Crumble the sausage over baby spinach, kale, or arugula with cranberries and goat cheese for a flavorful protein boost.
- In a Breakfast Wrap – Wrap them in a whole wheat tortilla with scrambled eggs, avocado, and cheese for a grab-and-go meal.
- With Roasted Veggies – Pair with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a nourishing, balanced plate.
- In a Protein Bowl – Serve alongside quinoa, sautéed greens, and avocado for a satisfying, high-protein breakfast.
- With Pancakes or Waffles – The sweet and savory combo of this sausage with whole grain or protein pancakes is unbeatable!
- These easy serving ideas make this homemade chicken sausage perfect for any meal—not just breakfast!
Apple Chicken Sausage
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet (cast-iron or non-stick)
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or tongs
- Meat thermometer
Materials
- 1 lb ground chicken 93% lean recommended
- 1 apple finely diced (Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith)
- ¼ cup chopped onion white or yellow
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp celery seed
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- Optional: pinch of chipotle powder or red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, diced apple, chopped onion, garlic powder, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, celery seed, and optional chipotle. Gently mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the Patties: Scoop ¼ cup portions and form into ½-inch thick patties.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with eggs, toast, in wraps, salads, or bowls.
Notes
Final Thoughts
Making your own apple chicken sausage at home is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to upgrade your breakfast. With lean protein, natural sweetness, and aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, clean eating, and satisfying morning meals.
Unlike store-bought options, this homemade sausage is free from preservatives, fillers, and artificial ingredients, giving you full control over the quality and flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or freezing a batch for later, this sweet and savory sausage will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
🍽️ Try This Recipe & Share Your Thoughts!
If you loved this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share your creations on Instagram & Pinterest—tag me so I can see your delicious meals!
Looking for more healthy breakfast ideas? Try these next:
🔹 Chicken Breakfast Sausage
🔹 Ground Chicken Sausage
🔹 Alfresco Chicken Sausage
👉 Save this recipe for later and enjoy a homemade, nourishing breakfast anytime!
Is chicken sausage actually healthy?
Chicken sausage is generally healthier than pork sausage, offering less fat and fewer calories. However, healthiness depends on ingredients—look for low-sodium, nitrate-free options with minimal additives.
Are the chicken apple sausages fully cooked?
Most chicken apple sausages sold in U.S. grocery stores are fully cooked. Always check the package label; if it says “fully cooked,” they only need reheating.
Are chicken apple sausages precooked from Costco?
Yes, brands like Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage sold at Costco are fully cooked. You can eat them heated or even cold, straight from the pack.
Does chicken apple sausage taste like apples?
It has a subtle sweetness from dried apples but doesn’t strongly taste like fresh apples. The flavor is more savory with a hint of fruitiness.
What are the disadvantages of chicken sausage?
Some contain high sodium, preservatives, or added sugars. Flavored varieties may also include more processed ingredients. Always read the nutrition label.
What is the healthiest sausage you can eat?
Look for sausages labeled organic or made from lean meats (like chicken or turkey), with no nitrates/nitrites, low sodium, and no added sugars. Uncured, minimally processed options are typically the best.