This homemade chicken breakfast sausage is juicy, savory, and lightly sweet with hints of maple and sage. Made with simple pantry spices and ground chicken, these flavorful patties are perfect for a high-protein breakfast and easy meal prep throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken breakfast sausage delivers everything you want in a morning protein option—flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare. The combination of dried sage, thyme, garlic, and nutmeg creates a classic breakfast sausage taste, while a touch of maple syrup adds subtle sweetness and keeps the patties moist.

You’ll love that:

• It’s high in protein and perfect for fueling your morning
• It uses simple dried spices—no chopping required
• It’s freezer-friendly and great for meal prep
• It’s made with wholesome ingredients and no fillers
• It pairs beautifully with eggs, vegetables, or breakfast wraps

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground chicken (preferably a mix of white and dark meat)
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Mix the sausage mixture.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, maple syrup, kosher salt, dried sage, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and nutmeg. Use clean hands to gently mix until all spices are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
2. Form the patties.
   Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten into small patties about ½ inch thick. If the mixture sticks to your hands, lightly wet your fingers with water.
3. Cook the sausages.
   Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place six patties in the pan, leaving space between each. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
4. Cook the second batch.
   Remove the first batch and repeat with the remaining patties, adding a small splash of oil if needed.
5. Serve warm.
   Transfer to a plate and serve immediately with eggs, sautéed greens, avocado slices, or inside a breakfast sandwich.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 small sausage patties

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Approximate nutrition per patty:
149 calories
13 grams protein
9 grams fat
5 grams carbohydrates

Variations

Spicy Maple Sausage
Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Herb-Forward Version
Increase dried sage to 1½ teaspoons for a stronger herbal flavor.

Garlic Lovers
Add an extra ¼ teaspoon garlic powder for a bolder taste.

No-Sweetener Option
Omit the maple syrup for a fully savory sausage.

Breakfast Crumble
Instead of forming patties, cook the seasoned chicken mixture directly in the pan and crumble as it cooks. Perfect for breakfast bowls or wraps.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.

Freezer
Place cooled patties in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side until warmed through.
Microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, depending on thickness.
From frozen, reheat in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and produces a similar texture and flavor.

How do I keep the sausage from drying out?

Use ground chicken that includes both white and dark meat, and avoid overcooking.

Can I make these ahead for meal prep?

Yes, they are excellent for meal prep and stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the center should no longer be pink.

Can I freeze them raw instead of cooked?

Yes, shape the patties and freeze them between parchment layers. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Can I make larger patties?

Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

What can I serve with chicken breakfast sausage?

They pair well with scrambled eggs, fried eggs, sautéed spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, or breakfast wraps.

Is the maple flavor strong?

No, it adds mild sweetness that balances the savory spices without overpowering them.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are these suitable for a high-protein diet?

Yes, each patty contains approximately 13 grams of protein, making them a great addition to a protein-rich breakfast.

Conclusion

This maple sage chicken breakfast sausage is a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your mornings. With pantry-friendly spices, easy preparation, and excellent storage options, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served alongside eggs or tucked into a breakfast wrap, these homemade patties deliver wholesome flavor in every bite.

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