Growing up, Salisbury steak was a weekly dinner tradition in my family. The classic beef version always felt heavy. But, I found a game-changing alternative: a salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken. This makes the comfort food lighter and healthier.
My culinary journey led me to reimagine this American classic. Ground chicken salisbury steaks offer a delicious twist that cuts calories without sacrificing flavor. I’ll show you how to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and health-conscious families.
Traditional Salisbury steak has been a staple for over a century. But my version brings a modern, nutritious update. This recipe contains 30% fewer calories than the traditional beef version. It’s an excellent choice for those watching their diet.
Key Takeaways
- Quick 30-minute preparation time
- 30% fewer calories than traditional Salisbury steak
- One serving provides 320 calories
- High protein content with 26g per serving
- Versatile recipe adaptable to dietary needs
Introduction to Salisbury Steak
Salisbury steak has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. It was created by Dr. James Salisbury, an American doctor. This dish has grown from a simple ground meat to a favorite comfort food. I love making an easy chicken salisbury steak recipe because it’s a healthier take on the classic.
The Origins of Salisbury Steak
At first, Salisbury steak was like a hamburger. But it soon added exciting ingredients like:
- Breadcrumbs for texture
- Eggs for binding
- Flavorful toppings such as mushrooms and onions
Why Ground Chicken Makes a Difference
I wanted to make a lighter version of the classic dish. Ground chicken is a great choice because it:
- Has lower fat content than beef
- Has a lighter, more delicate taste
- Is a good source of lean protein
Choosing ground chicken made this comfort food healthier without losing flavor. Now, my easy chicken salisbury steak is a hit with my family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make tasty chicken salisbury steak patties, you need the right ingredients. These will add flavor and nutrition to your meal. Let’s explore the essential parts that turn simple ground chicken into a delicious dish.
Ground Chicken Selection
Choosing the right ground chicken is key for healthy salisbury steak. Use ground chicken thigh for juiciness and flavor. Dark meat tastes richer than white meat.
- Ground chicken thighs (1 pound)
- Ground chicken breast (optional blend)
- Freshest meat possible
Pantry Staples for Chicken Salisbury Steak Patties
Your pantry has the magic to make these patties amazing. Here are the must-haves:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup | Binding and texture |
| Large egg | 1 | Helps hold patties together |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds depth of flavor |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Aromatic enhancement |
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Want to make your patties even better? Try these optional ingredients:
- Finely chopped onions for sweetness
- Italian seasoning for herbaceous notes
- Grated Parmesan cheese for richness
By picking these ingredients, you’ll make healthy chicken salisbury steak that’s both tasty and good for you. The trick is to balance flavors and keep the patties moist.
Preparing the Ground Chicken Mixture
Making tasty ground chicken salisbury steaks begins with a great mix. I’ll show you how to mix ingredients and shape the perfect patties. These steps will make your chicken salisbury steak gravy unforgettable.
Working with ground chicken requires a mix that’s moist, flavorful, and holds together well. Here are the must-have ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Mixing the Ingredients
I start by mixing ground chicken with breadcrumbs in a big bowl. The breadcrumbs help the patties stick together. Then, I add the egg, seasonings, and Worcestershire sauce gently until just mixed.
Forming the Patties
To make the perfect patties, I shape 6 oval ones. Pro tip: Make a small dent in the middle of each patty. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t puff up.
Chill the patties for 10 minutes before cooking. This step helps them keep their shape when you’re making your chicken salisbury steak gravy. You’ll get tender, juicy patties with a nice golden-brown outside.
Remember, the key to great salisbury steak is in the preparation and handling of the meat.
Cooking Methods for Salisbury Steak
When making an easy chicken Salisbury steak, you can choose from several cooking methods. I’ll show you two main ways to make your dish juicy and full of flavor.
To make the best baked chicken Salisbury steak, you need to know about different cooking techniques. Each method has its own benefits, depending on your kitchen and how much time you have.
Stovetop Cooking Technique
Stovetop cooking is fast and lets you control the heat directly. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat
- Sear chicken patties for 4-5 minutes per side
- Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F
- Achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior
The stovetop method gives you great control. It helps you get rich flavors by caramelizing the chicken directly.
Oven Baking Method
If you prefer not to cook much, baking is a good choice. It gives consistent results:
- Preheat oven to 375°F
- Place chicken patties on a lined baking sheet
- Bake for 20-25 minutes
- Flip patties halfway through cooking
- Check internal temperature reaches 160°F
Baking cooks the chicken evenly and needs less attention. It’s great for busy cooks who want an easy way to make chicken Salisbury steak.
Making the Mushroom Gravy
Creating the perfect chicken salisbury steak gravy is an art. It turns a good dish into an exceptional meal. The right mushroom gravy can make your classic chicken salisbury steak stand out.
The secret to a great gravy is choosing the right mushrooms and using the right cooking techniques. I recommend mixing different mushroom types for depth and complexity in flavor.
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
For the most flavorful chicken salisbury steak gravy, use a mix of mushrooms:
- Cremini mushrooms for a robust, earthy flavor
- Shiitake mushrooms for a delicate, woodsy note
- White button mushrooms for a classic, mild taste
Steps to Create the Perfect Gravy
Here’s my foolproof method for making a delicious mushroom gravy:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat
- Sauté sliced mushrooms and diced onions until golden brown
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir for 2 minutes
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly
- Add a splash of soy sauce and Dijon mustard for extra flavor
- Simmer until the gravy thickens to desired consistency
Pro tip: For an extra rich chicken salisbury steak gravy, finish with a splash of heavy cream. This will give your gravy a luxurious, velvety texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A healthier take on the classic Salisbury steak, this ground chicken version is just as juicy and delicious. Smothered in rich, savory mushroom gravy, this dish is a perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Mushroom Gravy:
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the patties: In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms and onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in broth, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let it thicken for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the chicken patties to the skillet, spooning the gravy over them. Simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
8. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
• For extra moisture, add ¼ cup milk to the ground chicken mixture.
• If the gravy is too thin, add more cornstarch slurry for thickness.
• Substitute ground turkey for a variation.
• Add a pinch of thyme or parsley for a flavorful touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty with gravy
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Ground chicken Salisbury steak, healthy Salisbury steak, chicken patty with gravy, comfort food, easy chicken dinner
Serving Suggestions
Creating the perfect chicken Salisbury steak recipe is more than just cooking the meat. The right sides and sauces can make this classic dish unforgettable. It’s a meal that will delight the whole family.
Best Side Dishes to Complement Your Chicken Salisbury Steak
I’ve found some amazing side dishes that go great with my chicken Salisbury steak recipe. The secret is to mix flavors and textures for a memorable meal.
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Roasted seasonal vegetables
- Buttery egg noodles
- Steamed rice
- Crisp garden salad
Sauce Pairings that Elevate the Dish
My chicken Salisbury steak recipe comes with a rich mushroom gravy. But trying out different sauces can add even more flavor.
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Herb Aioli | Tangy, Creamy | Excellent with crisp vegetable sides |
| Dijon Mustard Sauce | Sharp, Zesty | Complements the chicken’s mild flavor |
| Classic Brown Gravy | Rich, Savory | Traditional accompaniment |
When serving my chicken Salisbury steak recipe, I suggest a big helping of mushroom gravy. Choose sides that soak up those tasty flavors.
“The perfect meal is about balance, flavor, and love.” – Home Cooking Wisdom
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying my delicious healthy chicken salisbury steak, you’ll want to know the best ways to store and reheat these delectable patties. Proper storage ensures you can savor these flavors for days to come.
Refrigerator Storage Strategies
My ground chicken salisbury steaks can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I recommend keeping the gravy separate to prevent the patties from becoming soggy.
- Store patties in a shallow container
- Separate gravy into another container
- Use within 4 days for optimal taste
Freezing for Future Meals
Freezing is an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts. These healthy chicken salisbury steak patties freeze for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Airtight container |
| Freezer | 2 months | Wrap individually in plastic wrap |
Reheating Tips
When reheating, I suggest using gentle methods to maintain the juicy texture of your ground chicken salisbury steaks. Slowly warm the patties on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
- Use low to medium heat
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of broth
- Cover and heat until warm throughout
Pro tip: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety when reheating chicken dishes.
Variations on My Recipe
Chicken salisbury steak patties are super versatile. You can make this classic dish your own with creative twists. I enjoy trying out new flavors to keep things exciting for my family.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Adding veggies to your chicken salisbury steak is easy. It makes the dish healthier. Here are some tasty options:
- Finely diced bell peppers for color and crunch
- Grated zucchini for moisture and hidden vegetables
- Minced spinach for an iron-rich boost
- Caramelized onions for depth of flavor
Spicy Twist for Bold Flavors
For a spicy kick, try these:
| Spice Level | Recommended Add-Ins |
|---|---|
| Mild | Smoked paprika, black pepper |
| Medium | Jalapeños, red pepper flakes |
| Hot | Cayenne pepper, chipotle powder |
My top pick is a Southwestern-style chicken salisbury steak. It uses southwestern spices and fresh cilantro. The trick is to mix heat with flavors that complement the chicken.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of a healthy chicken salisbury steak is key. My recipe with ground chicken is both tasty and nutritious. It’s packed with protein and keeps calories low.
Health Benefits of Ground Chicken
Ground chicken beats traditional beef Salisbury steak in many ways. The USDA-recommended recipe shows ground chicken’s lean protein benefits. It has less saturated fat than beef.
- Lower calorie content compared to beef
- High-quality protein source
- Reduced saturated fat intake
- Supports muscle development
Nutritional Breakdown
Here are the nutritional details of this healthy dish:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 12g |
Pro tip: Pair this Salisbury steak with roasted vegetables or a side salad to boost nutritional value and fiber intake.
“Eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor – it’s about making smarter ingredient choices.”
Why This Recipe is Family-Friendly
Making a classic chicken salisbury steak recipe that everyone loves can be tough. My version is quick to make and full of flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Busy families need meals that are fast to make but full of taste. This chicken salisbury steak recipe is perfect. It has:
- Lightning-fast 30-minute total preparation time
- Kid-approved flavor profile
- Nutritionally balanced ingredients
- Easy-to-follow cooking steps
Quick Preparation Time
Weeknight dinners need to be quick. My chicken salisbury steak recipe is ready in just 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. Parents can have a tasty meal ready faster than ordering takeout.
Kid-Approved Flavors
Children can be picky, but this recipe turns ground chicken into a tasty meal. The savory gravy and tender patties make it a comfort food that kids love.
| Nutritional Highlights | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 395 kcal |
| Protein | 31g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 24g |
The balanced nutritional profile means kids get important nutrients in a meal they’ll enjoy. Getting kids involved in cooking can make them more excited to try new foods.
Final Thoughts on Salisbury Steak
My journey with this Salisbury steak recipe has been amazing. Baked chicken Salisbury steak is a lighter version that families adore. Finding the right ground chicken is key to making the patties tasty and tender.
Getting the ingredients right is important. Don’t overwork the meat. Use ground chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. Cooking slowly helps the patties get a golden crust and stay moist inside.
Tips for Best Results
For the best Salisbury steak, remember these tips. Use fresh ingredients and season well. A cast-iron skillet is great for a perfect sear. Let the patties rest after cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.
My Favorite Serving Occasion
This dish is perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. It’s easy to make and impressive for guests. Serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love.
