There’s nothing better than a cozy meal after a long day. That’s why I love this Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken. It’s lighter than the classic beef version but just as tasty. The gravy is rich and full of flavor, and the chicken patties are soft and juicy. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. Let’s jump in and get cooking!
What Is Salisbury Steak?
Salisbury steak is a classic comfort food. It’s made with ground meat, shaped into patties, and covered in rich gravy. The dish was named after Dr. James Salisbury, a doctor from the 1800s who believed meat was good for health. Over time, it became a favorite family meal across the U.S.
What are the main ingredients in Salisbury steak? Traditional recipes use ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasoning. These ingredients help hold the patties together and add flavor. The dish is topped with a smooth gravy made from beef broth, onions, and flour.
This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a lighter version of the classic. Ground chicken makes it leaner but still tasty. The gravy adds moisture and deep flavor, making each bite soft and delicious. It’s a fresh take on a timeless dish, perfect for a cozy homemade meal!
Why Use Ground Chicken for Salisbury Steak?
Switching to ground chicken for Salisbury steak is a game-changer. It’s lighter, healthier, and just as satisfying. If you love comfort food but want a better-for-you option, this is it!
Healthier and Lighter Option
Ground chicken has less fat than beef. This means fewer calories but still plenty of protein. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without feeling too heavy. Plus, it soaks up flavors beautifully, making each bite juicy and delicious.
Budget-Friendly and Versatile
Chicken is usually cheaper than beef. That means you can make this dish more often without worrying about cost. It also works well in many recipes. You can tweak the seasoning or add veggies to make it your own.
Why I Switched to Ground Chicken
I used to make Salisbury steak with beef, just like my mom did. But one day, I only had ground chicken in the fridge. I gave it a try, and to my surprise, it was even better! The patties turned out soft, and the gravy made them extra flavorful. Now, it’s my go-to recipe.
If you’ve never tried Salisbury steak with ground chicken, this is your sign to do it. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Ingredients for Salisbury Steak with Ground Chicken
This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken and gravy is easy to make and full of flavor. Here’s what you need:
Main Ingredients Overview
- Ground Chicken – Soft, lean, and soaks up flavors well. A mix of white and dark meat works best.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps hold the patties together. Panko makes them lighter.
- Egg – Binds everything so the patties don’t fall apart.
- Onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and a little crunch. Sautéing makes it milder.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – Simple spices that boost flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Gives a deep, savory taste.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Brings out all the other flavors.
Gravy Ingredients
- Butter – Makes the gravy rich and smooth.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce to the perfect texture.
- Beef or Chicken Broth – Adds a deep, comforting flavor.
- Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami goodness.
- Mushrooms (optional) – For an earthy, hearty taste.
Substitutions and Customizations
Want to make changes? Here are some easy swaps:
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Swap flour for cornstarch in the gravy.
- Dairy-Free Version – Use olive oil instead of butter. Choose a dairy-free broth.
- More Flavor? – Add fresh parsley or thyme to the patties.
- Different Meat? – Ground turkey works too! It’s leaner, so you might need extra seasoning.
No matter how you tweak it, this Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken and gravy will be a hit. Time to cook!
Step-by-Step Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
This recipe is easy to follow, and the flavors are absolutely worth it. Let’s break it down step by step!
Preparing the Ground Chicken Patties
First, grab a mixing bowl. Add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well. You want the ingredients evenly combined but not overworked—overmixing can make the patties tough.
Once mixed, divide the meat into equal portions and shape them into oval patties. Think of them as slightly flattened meatballs. They should be thick enough to stay juicy but not so thick that they take forever to cook. Place them on a plate and set them aside.
Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly oil your hands before shaping the patties!
Cooking the Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or butter. Once hot, place the patties in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. If they’re browning too fast but still raw inside, lower the heat and cook a bit longer.
After cooking, transfer them to a plate while you make the gravy. Don’t clean the pan—those browned bits at the bottom will add tons of flavor to the sauce!
Pro Tip: If you prefer, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Making the Gravy
In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for a minute, stirring constantly. This removes the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in beef or chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and mushrooms (if using). Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
Once the gravy looks rich and smooth, return the patties to the pan. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes, soaking up all that delicious flavor.
Pro Tip: If your gravy gets too thick, just add a splash of broth to loosen it up!
Tips for the Best Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
Want to make your Salisbury steak taste amazing? These simple tricks will take it from good to incredible!
1. Use High-Quality Ground Chicken
Not all ground chicken is the same! If you’ve ever ended up with dry, bland patties, it’s likely because the meat was too lean. A mix of white and dark meat gives you the best balance—juicy, flavorful, and easy to shape. If your ground chicken is too soft, a little extra breadcrumb helps firm it up.
Quick Tip: If you can, buy freshly ground chicken from a butcher. It has a better texture and taste than pre-packaged versions!
2. Season Generously for a Robust Flavor
Ground chicken has a mild taste, so it needs a little help to shine. Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are must-haves, but don’t stop there! A dash of smoked paprika or a splash of soy sauce can add depth. Worcestershire sauce? Absolutely—it’s a game-changer!
Quick Tip: Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes before shaping the patties. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the patties easier to handle.
3. Let the Patties Simmer in the Gravy
This is the secret to ultra-tender Salisbury steak! After searing the patties, let them bathe in the gravy for a few minutes. This not only infuses them with rich, savory goodness but also keeps them from drying out.
Quick Tip: If your gravy thickens too much, just stir in a splash of broth to loosen it up. Perfect every time!
Follow these simple tips, and your Salisbury steak will be full of flavor, juicy, and absolutely delicious. Ready to impress your family with a homemade comfort food classic? Let’s get cooking!
Serving Suggestions
You made a tasty Salisbury steak. Now, let’s pick the best sides!
What to Serve with Salisbury Steak?
This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some great choices:
- Mashed Potatoes – Soft, creamy, and perfect for soaking up gravy. Add butter or garlic for extra flavor.
- Rice – Light and fluffy. It balances the meal without being too heavy.
- Buttered Noodles – Egg noodles tossed in butter are a simple but tasty side.
- Roasted Vegetables – Green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add color and crunch. Roast them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Steamed Broccoli – A fresh, light side that adds a little crunch.
Quick Tip: Mix and match! Try mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and a fresh salad for a full meal.
Presentation Tips
Make your plate look as good as it tastes!
- Place the Steak Right – Put it slightly off-center for a nice look.
- Pour the Gravy with Care – Let it flow naturally over the steak. A little extra on the plate is perfect!
- Add a Simple Garnish – Sprinkle fresh parsley or black pepper on top.
- Stack for Style – Don’t lay everything flat. Stack the mashed potatoes and lean the steak against them.
Pro Tip: Use a white plate. The dark gravy and golden-brown patties will stand out!
With great sides and a little plating magic, your meal will look and taste amazing. Time to dig in! 🍽️
And that’s it—your delicious Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is ready! It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Who knew a few pantry staples could create such a satisfying meal?
This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen, and I hope it finds a place in yours too. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy dinner, this recipe won’t let you down.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Did you try it? Did you tweak anything? Maybe you added a secret ingredient that took it to the next level? Drop a comment below and share your version—I’m always up for new ideas!
Happy cooking!
FAQs:
1. What are the main ingredients in Salisbury steak?
Traditional Salisbury steak uses ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onions, and seasoning. This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken swaps beef for a leaner, lighter option while keeping the classic flavors.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute. It’s lean like chicken but may need extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
3. How do I keep ground chicken patties from falling apart?
Use breadcrumbs and an egg to help bind the patties. Chilling the mixture for 10 minutes before shaping can also make it firmer and easier to handle.
4. What’s the secret to making juicy Salisbury steak with ground chicken?
Don’t overmix the meat, and cook the patties gently over medium heat. Simmering them in gravy at the end keeps them moist and flavorful.
5. How do I make the gravy smooth and lump-free?
Whisk the flour into melted butter before adding broth. Stir constantly while pouring in the liquid to create a silky, lump-free gravy.
6. What can I serve with Salisbury steak?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles pair perfectly. Add roasted vegetables like carrots or green beans for a balanced meal.
7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the patties and cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the gravy. The taste stays just as delicious.
8. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth to keep the meat moist.
9. Can I freeze Salisbury steak with ground chicken?
Yes! Freeze cooked patties and gravy separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for best results.
10. How can I add more flavor to this dish?
Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the patties. A dash of smoked paprika or soy sauce can also boost the umami taste.
