Homemade Al Fresco Country Style Chicken Breakfast Sausage Patties 4 ea Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Breakfast Sausage

Introduction

Al Fresco Country Style Chicken Breakfast Sausage Patties have long been a favorite for those seeking a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausages. With their perfect blend of spices and herbs, these patties offer a flavorful start to the day. However, many enthusiasts desire a homemade version that not only mirrors the original's taste but also offers improved nutrition and customization. This recipe achieves just that, using fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a healthier breakfast option that's both delicious and adaptable to various tastes.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own breakfast sausage patties allows you to control the ingredients, reducing sodium and avoiding preservatives. It also lets you customize the flavor, whether you prefer a spicy kick or a smoky twist. Plus, homemade versions can be more economical and fresher than store-bought options.

Personal Anecdote

I once found myself craving the convenience of Al Fresco sausages but wanted to avoid the preservatives. After some trial and error, I developed this recipe, which quickly became a family favorite. The ability to tweak the spices to suit our tastes made breakfast more exciting and satisfying.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:10-12 minutes
• **Total Time:25-27 minutes
• **Yield:4 patties

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (preferably 90% lean)
• 2 tbsp (30g) finely chopped fresh sage
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tsp (5g) salt
• 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
• 1 tbsp (15g) olive oil
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs (gluten-free optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, sage, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.

• Add Binder: Stir in the olive oil and egg until fully incorporated. Fold in the breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture without making it dense.

• **Form Patties:### Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty, about 3/4-inch thick.

• **Cooking Options:

• Pan-Frying: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

  • Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet, bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add diced jalapeños.
• Smoky Version: Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika and 1/4 tsp liquid smoke.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to avoid dense patties.
• Chill for Better Texture: Chill patties 30 minutes before cooking for easier handling.
• Internal Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure patties reach 165°F for safety.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh herbs? Yes, use 1 tbsp fresh sage and 1 tsp fresh parsley.
• Too dense? Add a bit more breadcrumb.
• How to store? Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
• Scaling? Double or triple the recipe as needed.
• Gluten-free option? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit and add extra egg.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Breakfast: Serve with eggs, toast, and pancakes.
• Breakfast Sandwich: Layer on a biscuit or English muffin with cheese.
• Creative Twist: Add to a breakfast burrito or alongside hash browns.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought patties, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast with less sodium and preservatives. Share your creations or tweaks in the comments!