If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal but want a lighter alternative to traditional beef-based dishes, this Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is the perfect solution. It delivers all the rich, savory flavors of the classic dish but swaps in lean ground chicken for a healthier twist. The tender, juicy patties are pan-seared to perfection and smothered in a flavorful mushroom and onion gravy, making every bite irresistible.
Growing up, Salisbury steak was a staple in my home. My family loved the deep, meaty flavors of the dish, but as I started experimenting with different proteins, I discovered that ground chicken worked just as well—if not better! The result? A lighter yet equally satisfying version of this comfort food favorite that’s packed with flavor but won’t weigh you down.
This ground chicken Salisbury steak is ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or even a healthier alternative to the traditional dish. It pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple side of steamed rice. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different seasonings and ingredients to fit your dietary needs.
If you love classic comfort food but want a healthier, more budget-friendly option, this recipe is a must-try!
Table of contents
Why This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken Works
A Healthier Take on a Comfort Classic
Traditional Salisbury steak is typically made with ground beef, which is rich in flavor but higher in fat. By using ground chicken, we create a leaner and lighter version without sacrificing taste. The meat remains juicy and flavorful thanks to the addition of breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings that help retain moisture.
A Rich, Savory Gravy
One of the best parts of this dish is the deeply flavorful mushroom and onion gravy. The sauce is made by deglazing the pan with beef broth (or chicken broth for an even lighter version), then thickened to coat the Salisbury steaks in a rich, velvety sauce.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Freezing
This recipe is great for meal prepping—make a big batch, store leftovers in the fridge, or freeze individual portions for easy weeknight dinners. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Customizable to Your Taste
- Want a richer flavor? Add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce.
- Prefer a creamier sauce? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream at the end.
- Need it gluten-free? Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
- Craving more veggies? Add finely chopped mushrooms or spinach into the patties.
This recipe is all about big flavors, simple ingredients, and easy cooking techniques that make it a fantastic go-to meal for busy nights.
Recipe Card
Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes350
kcalA leaner twist on the classic Salisbury steak, this recipe uses ground chicken for a healthier yet just-as-satisfying alternative. Smothered in a rich and savory gravy, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty meal for the whole family.
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Ingredients
- For the Patties:
1 lb ground chicken
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup finely chopped onions
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- For the Gravy:
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 small onion, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef or chicken broth (use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 oval-shaped patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil or butter. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil or butter. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, making sure the flour doesn’t burn.
- Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish the Dish:
- Return the cooked patties to the skillet with the gravy. Let them simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can add mushrooms to the gravy for a richer flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can use skim milk instead of heavy cream, but the gravy won’t be as thick.
- The patties can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
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Pro Tips for Success
Cooking the perfect Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is all about getting the right texture, flavors, and consistency. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out flawless every time:
1. Keep the Ground Chicken Moist
Ground chicken tends to be leaner than beef, which means it can dry out quickly. To prevent this:
- Use breadcrumbs and eggs – These ingredients act as binders, keeping the patties tender and moist.
- Add a bit of milk – A tablespoon or two of milk can help keep the meat juicy.
- Don’t overmix – Gently combine the ingredients just until they come together. Overmixing leads to tough, dense patties.
2. Sear for Flavor
To develop a delicious crust on your ground chicken Salisbury steak, make sure to:
- Heat the pan before adding oil—this helps achieve a golden-brown sear.
- Cook the patties on medium-high heat to lock in moisture while creating a flavorful exterior.
3. Use the Right Pan for Gravy
The secret to a rich, deep-flavored gravy is deglazing the pan with broth. For best results:
- Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan to create flavorful browned bits (fond) on the bottom.
- Scrape the pan well after cooking the patties to incorporate those flavorful bits into the sauce.
4. Don’t Rush the Gravy
A great Salisbury steak is all about the gravy. For the best results:
- Sauté onions and mushrooms first to develop depth of flavor.
- Simmer the gravy slowly to let the flavors meld.
- Thicken with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) for a silky, lump-free consistency.
5. Make It Ahead for Better Flavor
Like many classic comfort dishes, this ground chicken Salisbury steak actually tastes better the next day. If possible, let the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before serving.
Variants of the Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken
While the classic Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a delicious comfort food on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to make it even more exciting. Whether you’re looking to accommodate dietary restrictions, add a fun twist, or simply experiment with flavors, here are a few variants to consider:
1. Paleo Salisbury Steak with Ground Chicken
If you’re following a paleo lifestyle, you can easily adapt this recipe by swapping out a few ingredients:
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with almond flour or crushed almonds to keep the patties moist and binding.
- Gravy: Instead of regular flour, use arrowroot powder or coconut flour to thicken the gravy.
- Add more vegetables: Try adding finely chopped spinach or zucchini to the patties for extra nutrition.
This version still offers the comfort of Salisbury steak, but with fewer carbs and more nutrients, making it a great option for those avoiding grains or dairy.
2. Gluten-Free Salisbury Steak with Ground Chicken
For those who need a gluten-free option, this recipe is incredibly easy to modify:
- Breadcrumbs: Choose gluten-free breadcrumbs, or use crushed rice crackers, gluten-free oats, or ground rice as an alternative.
- Thickening the gravy: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This version allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this classic dish without compromising on flavor or texture.
3. Spicy Salisbury Steak with Ground Chicken
For spice lovers, a little heat can add a whole new level of excitement to the dish:
- Season the patties with chili powder, cayenne pepper, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to give the meat a fiery kick.
- Spicy gravy: Add a bit of chipotle or smoked paprika to the gravy to complement the heat in the patties. This spicy twist gives the dish a new dimension of flavor while still maintaining the savory, comforting base.
FAQ about Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in place of ground chicken. The flavor and texture are very similar, and it will still provide the same delicious result. However, turkey tends to be a bit leaner, so make sure not to overcook it to avoid dryness.
Absolutely! You can freeze the patties both before and after cooking. If freezing uncooked patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the recipe instructions.
To make this recipe dairy-free, you can replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. Use a non-dairy milk (such as almond or coconut milk) instead of heavy cream in the gravy. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce, tamari, or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a bit of sugar. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still provide the necessary depth for the dish.
Final Thoughts
The Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a fantastic, leaner alternative to the traditional version, offering all the comfort and flavor of the classic dish but with a lighter twist. With its juicy patties and rich, creamy gravy, it’s perfect for a hearty family meal or a weeknight treat. Plus, it’s easy to customize, whether you’re looking to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or spice it up with your favorite flavors. If you want a classic version, check out the salisbury steak recipe!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade comfort food that’s healthier and just as indulgent. If you loved this Salisbury steak recipe, be sure to check out our other comforting chicken dishes, like creamy chicken marsala or tender chicken piccata, for more flavorful meals to enjoy at home.
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