Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken – A Hearty, Healthy Twist

When you think of comfort food, Salisbury steak probably comes to mind. Traditionally made with ground beef and smothered in a rich brown gravy, this dish has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. But what if you could enjoy the same delicious flavors in a lighter, healthier version?

This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken delivers all the savory goodness you love while offering a leaner alternative that’s still incredibly juicy and flavorful. Made with simple pantry staples, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special family gathering.

You’ll find:

By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make the best homemade Salisbury steak with ground chicken—tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative: Ground chicken is lower in fat than beef but still delivers amazing flavor.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
One-Pan Meal: Cook everything in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
Kid-Friendly: A family-favorite dish that even picky eaters will love.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are easy to find.

Ingredients and Instructions

Before we get into the details, let’s take a look at what you’ll need. Using the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Patties

Ingredients for the Gravy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently using your hands or a fork until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the patties tough.
• Shape the mixture into four evenly sized oval-shaped patties.

Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly oil your hands before shaping the patties.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Place the patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing them from the skillet.
• Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

• In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
• Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
• Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry, then slowly pour it into the skillet while stirring.
• Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Pro Tip: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

• Return the patties to the skillet and spoon the rich, velvety gravy over them.
• Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes so they can absorb the flavors.
• Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

What to Serve with Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken?

To elevate your meal, consider pairing your Salisbury steak with one of these delicious side dishes:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate comfort food combo, perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
Steamed Vegetables – A healthy side that adds color and balance to the dish.
Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery slices complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Fluffy White Rice – A great alternative to potatoes, making the dish lighter.
Egg Noodles – A soft, buttery base that pairs perfectly with the juicy patties.

Pro Tip: Add a side of coleslaw or a fresh salad for extra crunch and contrast.

How to Keep Salisbury Steak from Falling Apart?

If your patties tend to crumble while cooking, try these foolproof tricks:

Use enough breadcrumbs – This helps bind the meat together while keeping it moist.
Chill the patties – Let them rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking to firm them up.
Don’t overwork the meat – Mix ingredients gently to avoid breaking down the texture.
Cook over medium heat – Too much heat can cause them to dry out too quickly.

Pro Tip: Adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the mixture can enhance moisture and improve texture.

Why Is My Salisbury Steak Pink?

A slightly pink center in ground chicken can be concerning, but it doesn’t always mean the meat is undercooked. Here’s why:

Temperature is key – Always check for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Seasonings affect color – Some spices, like paprika or smoked seasonings, can create a pinkish hue.
Resting time helps – Letting the patties sit for a few minutes after cooking ensures even heat distribution.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, slice a patty in half and check for opaque, fully cooked meat with clear juices.

Pro Tips & Variations

To truly master this Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken, consider these expert cooking tips and creative variations. Whether you prefer a healthier twist, a spicier kick, or a different cooking method, there are countless ways to customize this dish to your liking.

How to Make the Juiciest Salisbury Steak

One of the most common concerns with ground chicken is dryness. Unlike beef, it has less fat, which can result in tough patties if not handled correctly. Follow these tips to ensure tender, juicy Salisbury steak every time:

• Use a mix of dark and white meat – If possible, choose ground chicken with a blend of dark and white meat. The extra fat from dark meat will keep the patties moist.
• Add moisture-enhancing ingredients – Mixing in a tablespoon of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayonnaise helps retain moisture inside the patties.
• Handle the mixture gently – Overmixing ground chicken can break down proteins, leading to dense, rubbery patties. Mix just until combined.
• Don’t overcook the patties – Ground chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internally, but cooking them beyond this can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Let them rest before serving – Once cooked, allow the patties to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices inside.

Low-Carb and Keto Version

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, it’s easy to modify this recipe while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture:

• Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour – This alternative provides a similar binding effect without the added carbs.
• Use heavy cream instead of cornstarch for the gravy – A butter and cream-based gravy will add richness while keeping the recipe keto-friendly.
• Serve with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables – Instead of mashed potatoes, try mashed cauliflower, roasted Brussels sprouts, or buttered zucchini noodles.

Make It Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free Salisbury steak, simply swap out ingredients like butter and sour cream for plant-based alternatives:

• Use dairy-free butter or olive oil – This ensures the gravy remains rich and flavorful.
• Replace sour cream with coconut yogurt or a dairy-free mayo – These substitutions keep the patties moist without altering taste.
• Check the Worcestershire sauce label – Some brands contain anchovies or dairy-based additives, so opt for a vegan version if needed.

Spice It Up!

If you love bold flavors, consider adding these spicy enhancements:

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle heat that enhances the dish.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a rich, smoky undertone.
• Finely diced jalapeños – Mixing jalapeños into the patty mixture gives an extra spicy kick.

FAQs

This section answers the most common questions about making the best Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken.

Conclusion

This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a lighter, healthier take on a classic comfort dish. It delivers rich flavors, tender patties, and a savory homemade gravy while being easy to prepare and budget-friendly.

By following these expert tips and variations, you can customize the recipe to fit your dietary preferences and flavor preferences. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Try this recipe today and let us know how you like to serve your Salisbury steak in the comments below!

Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken – A Hearty, Healthy Twist

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• Author: Mery
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 patties

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Description

Enjoy a lighter, healthier take on the classic Salisbury steak with this ground chicken version. Juicy, tender patties are smothered in a rich, savory onion gravy, making it the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. Made in just one skillet, this dish is budget-friendly, kid-approved, and packed with delicious flavor!

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Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 1 lb ground chicken – Lean or regular for the best texture
• 1 egg – Helps bind the patties together
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – Use panko for extra crispiness
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and umami flavor
• 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances taste with a savory touch
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional) – Adds extra flavor
• Salt & pepper to taste – Adjust as preferred
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For frying the patties

For the Gravy:

• 1 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium for better seasoning control
• 1 tbsp cornstarch – Helps thicken the gravy
• 1 tbsp butter – Adds richness and velvety texture
• ½ cup onion, chopped – Caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix using your hands or a fork until ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
3. Shape the mixture into four evenly sized oval-shaped patties.
4. Pro Tip: If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly oil your hands before shaping the patties.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

5. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
7. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing from the skillet.
8. Transfer the patties to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

9. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
10. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and slightly caramelized.
11. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
12. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry.
13. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while stirring, and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the gravy thickens.
14. Pro Tip: If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

15. Return the patties to the skillet and spoon the rich gravy over them.
16. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
17. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• How to Keep Salisbury Steak from Falling Apart? Ensure the mixture is not too wet; breadcrumbs and egg help bind it. If needed, refrigerate the patties for 15 minutes before cooking.
• Why Is My Salisbury Steak Pink? Ground chicken can sometimes have a pinkish hue even when fully cooked. Always check with a thermometer and ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Variations: Try adding mushrooms to the gravy for extra depth, or swap ground turkey for another lean option.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: ~280
• Fat: ~12g
• Carbohydrates: ~15g
• Protein: ~28g