Chicken apple sausages are a popular type of sausage that combines ground chicken with apples and spices. With their sweet and savory flavor profile, chicken apple sausages make a nice alternative to traditional pork breakfast sausages. But many health-conscious consumers wonder, just how many calories are in one chicken apple sausage? Let’s take a closer look at the calorie count and nutrition facts for this type of sausage.
Calories in Chicken Apple Sausages
The number of calories in a chicken apple sausage can vary depending on the brand, size, and specific ingredients used. However, on average, one chicken apple sausage contains around 80-110 calories.
For example, here are the nutrition facts for some popular brands of chicken apple sausages:
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Aidells | 1 sausage (57g) | 90 |
| Al Fresco | 1 sausage (71g) | 110 |
| Applegate | 1 sausage (85g) | 110 |
| Shady Brook Farms | 1 sausage (63g) | 80 |
As you can see, calories range from 80-110 per chicken apple sausage link, depending on the brand. In general, a 3-4 ounce chicken apple sausage contains about 90-110 calories.
Nutritional Profile of Chicken Apple Sausages
In addition to calories, chicken apple sausages contain a range of other nutrients:
- Protein – Chicken apple sausages are a good source of protein, with around 8-15g per link. The protein comes from the ground chicken.
- Fat – Most brands contain 3-8g of fat per sausage. They use lean cuts of chicken, so fat content is moderate.
- Carbs – Chicken apple sausages contain around 5-12g carbs from the apples, along with small amounts of added sugars.
- Fiber – Apples provide a bit of natural fiber. You’ll get 1-3g per sausage.
- Sodium – Expect 200-350mg sodium from seasonings like salt, garlic, onion, sage, and others.
Chicken apple sausages make a nutritious choice compared to pork breakfast sausages. They have less fat, saturated fat, and sodium. They also provide lean protein from chicken and a bit of fiber from the apples.
Benefits of Chicken Apple Sausages
Here are some of the main benefits of choosing chicken apple sausages:
- Lower in fat and calories than pork sausages
- Contain lean, high-quality protein for building muscle
- Provide a serving of fruit from the apples
- Are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals
- Have a nice blend of sweet and savory flavor
- Can be incorporated into many types of meals
- Offer a creative way to get more protein and produce
Chicken apple sausages make a satisfying high protein breakfast or meal prep addition. Their mild flavor and versatility also make them popular with kids and adults alike.
How to Cook Chicken Apple Sausages
Chicken apple sausages can be prepared in many different ways. Here are some popular cooking methods:
- Pan fried – You can pan fry chicken apple sausages in a skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 10 minutes total.
- Baked – For a lower fat option, bake sausages on a sheet pan in a 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Grilled – Grilling imparts delicious flavor. Cook over medium heat for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Air fried – Air fry at 380°F for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Microwaved – Microwave for 60-90 seconds per sausage to quickly reheat leftovers.
You can enjoy chicken apple sausages on their own, sliced in salads, added to grain bowls, paired with veggies, or used in breakfast sandwiches and wraps. They go great with mustard, ketchup, or maple syrup for dipping.
Ways to Use Chicken Apple Sausages
Here are some delicious ways to use chicken apple sausages in your meal planning:
- Breakfast sandwiches – Use chicken apple sausage patties on English muffins or biscuits with egg and cheese
- Breakfast bowls – Saute sausage with potatoes, veggies, and eggs for a hearty bowl
- Sausage skewers – Alternate sausage chunks and fruit or veggie pieces on skewers
- Salads – Slice and add cooked sausage to leafy green, grain, pasta, or potato salads
- Quesadillas – Include sliced sausage in quesadillas with cheese, peppers, and onions
- Pizza – Top flatbread or naan pizzas with chicken apple sausage and cheese
- Pasta – Toss sliced sausage with pasta, tomatoes, spinach, and Italian seasonings
- Soups – Add bite-sized pieces to hearty bean, vegetable, or minestrone soups
Chicken apple sausage’s versatility and flavor make it easy to incorporate into all types of dishes any time of day.
Are Chicken Apple Sausages Healthy?
Overall, chicken apple sausages can be a healthy meat choice when eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating their health profile:
- Lower in fat and calories than pork sausage – Using lean chicken saves on fat and calories.
- Contain lean protein – You get about 8-15g protein per link for muscle building.
- Provide produce – The apple content counts toward your daily fruit servings.
- Are minimally processed – Most brands only use whole food ingredients like chicken, apples, and spices.
- Can be high in sodium – Check labels and opt for low sodium varieties if needed.
- May have added sugars – Apples provide natural sweetness, but some brands add sugar.
When choosing chicken apple sausages, look for options with short ingredient lists, at least 5-10g protein, 2-4g fiber, and less than 300mg sodium per link. Enjoy as part of a plate with plenty of veggies and whole grains.
Best Brands of Chicken Apple Sausages
Some of the best chicken apple sausage brands include:
| Brand | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Aidells | No nitrates/nitrites, MSG, or gluten. Minimally processed. |
| Al Fresco | All natural ingredients. No nitrites or MSG. |
| Applegate | Organic and natural. No GMOs or chemical preservatives. |
| Pederson’s Natural Farms | No antibiotics, nitrates, nitrites, or MSG. Gluten-free. |
| Shady Brook Farms | No antibiotics or added hormones. Minimal ingredients. |
When shopping, look for chicken apple sausage brands with simple, recognizable ingredients and minimal processing. This ensures you’re getting the highest quality, healthiest option.
Chicken Apple Sausage Recipe Ideas
Here are a few delicious recipe ideas that showcase chicken apple sausages:
Sausage Hash with Eggs
Saute chicken apple sausage with potatoes, peppers, and onions. Make wells and crack eggs on top to cook. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Sausage and Apple Flatbread Pizza
Top naan or flatbread with marinara sauce, chicken apple sausage, thinly sliced apples, and mozzarella. Bake until melted.
Sausage and Cheese Strata
In a greased baking dish layer chicken apple sausage, bread cubes, spinach, and cheese. Whisk eggs with milk and pour over top. Bake until set.
Sausage Alfredo Zoodles
Saute zucchini noodles in olive oil. Add cooked sliced sausage and toss with alfredo sauce. Garnish with parsley.
Sausage and Vegetable Soup
Simmer chicken stock with carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, spinach, and bite-sized sausage. Season with thyme, oregano, and rosemary.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Apple Sausages
Here are some tips for storing and reheating chicken apple sausages:
- Refrigeration – Uncooked sausages can be kept refrigerated for 4-7 days. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
- Freezing – For longer storage, freeze sausages for 2-3 months. Wrap individually then place in freezer bags.
- Reheating – Cooked sausages can be reheated in the microwave, skillet, or oven until warmed through, about 60-90 seconds per sausage.
- Defrosting – To defrost, place frozen sausages in the refrigerator overnight. You can also defrost in the microwave.
Properly stored, chicken apple sausages will maintain their quality and flavor for several days refrigerated or a few months in the freezer. Reheat gently before serving.
Chicken Apple Sausage FAQs
Are chicken apple sausages already cooked?
Most chicken apple sausages sold in stores are fully cooked and just need to be reheated. However, always verify on the package label. Some brands may require stove top or oven cooking before eating.
Can you eat chicken apple sausages cold?
It’s not recommended to eat chicken apple sausages straight from the fridge without reheating first. Bringing them to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F helps kill any bacteria present.
Do chicken apple sausages need to be refrigerated?
Yes, raw chicken apple sausages are perishable and must be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. Cooked sausages should also be refrigerated within 2 hours of cooking.
Can you freeze chicken apple sausages?
Chicken apple sausages freeze very well for long-term storage. Wrap raw or cooked sausages tightly in plastic wrap or place in airtight containers before freezing for up to 2-3 months.
Are chicken apple sausages gluten-free?
Most major brands of chicken apple sausage are gluten-free. However, always check the package labels, as some can contain gluten from seasonings or ingredients like wheat flour.
Conclusion
Chicken apple sausages make for a tasty, nutrition-packed alternative to pork sausages. A typical chicken apple sausage contains around 80-110 calories, plus protein, produce, and spices. They can be incorporated into many dishes and offer versatility in the kitchen. Opt for high-quality brands without too much added sodium or sugars. Enjoy chicken apple sausages in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
