Meat lovers are often told to steer clear of sausages on a weight loss journey and follow a fad diet that promises quick results. But what if we tell you that there’s a type of sausage that can help you shed those pounds? We’re talking about chicken sausage – the healthier, leaner alternative to traditional pork sausages.
At first glance, it might seem too good to be true. After all, sausage isn’t exactly known for being a healthy food. But with its high protein, lower fat and calorie content compared to traditional sausage, chicken sausage might just be the weight loss secret you’ve been searching for.
But before we dive into why, let’s get one thing straight – not all chicken sausage is created equal. Some brands are packed with unhealthy additives and preservatives, while others are made with low-quality chicken meat.
But fear not! We’ve done the research and are here to tell you all about the benefits (and potential drawbacks), and why chicken sausage is good for weight loss.
Here’s another chicken dish extremely effective to lose pounds, chicken and rice for weight loss.
Table of Content
Nutritional Content of Chicken Sausage
Let’s start by taking a closer look at the nutritional content of chicken sausage.
As we mentioned earlier, chicken sausage is generally a healthier option than Italian sausage in terms of calories and fat content. But that’s not all! Chicken sausage is also a great source of protein, which is essential for maintaining and building muscle mass.
One 2-ounce serving of chicken sausage contains around 60-80 calories, 2-4 grams of fat, and 9-12 grams of protein. Compared to pork sausage, which can contain over 200 calories and 18 grams of fat per 2-ounce serving, chicken sausage is a much lighter option.
Chicken sausage also tends to be lower in saturated fat, which is the type of fat that can increase your risk of heart disease.
But don’t let the low calorie and fat content fool you – chicken sausage is still processed meat, and some brands contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems. That’s why it’s important to choose a brand that’s low in sodium and free from unhealthy additives and preservatives.
Sprinkle Tajin seasoning on your chicken sausage to enhance its taste and boost metabolism.
How Chicken Sausage Can Aid in Weight Loss
Now that we know the nutritional content of chicken sausage, let’s discuss how it can actually help with weight loss.
Low Calorie and Fat Content
As we mentioned earlier, chicken sausage is a low-calorie and low-fat protein source that can help you feel satisfied and full without consuming too many calories. This can be especially beneficial if you are trying to reduce your overall calorie intake and create a calorie deficit, which is necessary for weight loss.
High Protein Content
In addition to being low in calories and fat, chicken sausage is also high in protein. Protein is known to be more filling than carbohydrates or fat, which means that consuming more protein can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your overall calorie intake.
Versatile
Chicken sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of healthy and delicious meals. From breakfast to dinner, it deserves a place on our plates. Some of our favorite ways to use chicken sausage include adding it to omelets, using it as a pizza topping, or grilling it up and serving it with roasted vegetables.
You can also add hot sauce on chicken sausage, it will boost metabolism and burn more calories for weight loss.
Ideas for Using Chicken Sausage for Weight Loss
Now you might be craving to taste that long abandoned sausage on your weight loss journey, let’s find out the delicious ideas to incorporate chicken sausage into your daily diet:
Breakfast – Chicken sausage is a great addition to your morning routine. Try adding it to an omelet with some veggies, or make a breakfast sandwich with a whole wheat English muffin, scrambled eggs, and chicken sausage.
Lunch – For a healthy and filling lunch, add chicken sausage to a salad. You can also make a wrap with whole wheat tortillas, chicken sausage, and some veggies.
Snacks – Need a quick and easy snack? Cut up some chicken sausage and pair it with some raw veggies or a piece of fruit. I prefer adding it to a boiled egg and avocado diet.
Healthy Recipe Ideas
Now that we’ve gone over how to use chicken sausage for weight loss, let’s talk about some healthy and delicious recipe ideas:
1. Chicken Sausage and Vegetable Skewers – Skewer chicken sausages with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onion. Grill or roast until cooked through and serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice.
2. Chicken Sausage and Egg Breakfast Bowl – Cook chicken sausage with scrambled eggs and your favorite vegetables, such as spinach and mushrooms. Serve with a side of avocado and whole-grain toast.
3. Chicken Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash – Sauté chicken sausage with diced sweet potato, onion, and bell pepper. Top with a fried egg and serve with a side of whole-grain toast.
For a quick meal, mix chicken sausage with a Lean Cuisine diet and prepare your nutrition and the protein-filled meal just in a couple of minutes.
Here are some tips on how to use chicken sausage for weight loss:
- Choose the Right Brand – As we mentioned earlier, not all chicken sausage is created equal. When choosing chicken sausage for weight loss, look for brands that are low in calories, fat, and sodium. Choose a brand that’s free from unhealthy additives and preservatives, and aim for one that contains around 9-12 grams of protein per 2-ounce serving.
- Watch Your Portions – Even though chicken sausage is a healthy option, it’s still important to watch your portions. One 2-ounce serving of chicken sausage contains around 60-80 calories, so be mindful of how much you are consuming. Stick to the recommended service size while adding chicken sausage to a recipe.
- Pair with Healthy Ingredients – To make the most of your chicken sausage, pair it with healthy ingredients. This will help you create a well-rounded and nutritious meal that’s packed with flavor. Some healthy ingredients that pair well with chicken sausage include roasted vegetables, whole grains, boiled eggs, sardines, and healthy fats.
The Best Chicken Sausage Brands for Weight Loss
When it comes to finding the best chicken sausage for weight loss, there are a few key things to look for:
- Low calorie and fat content – Look for chicken sausage that contains around 60-80 calories and 2-4 grams of fat per 2-ounce serving.
- High protein content – Aim for chicken sausage that contains around 9-12 grams of protein per 2-ounce serving.
- Minimal additives and preservatives – Choose a brand that’s free from unhealthy additives and preservatives, such as nitrites and nitrates.
Some of the best chicken sausage brands for weight loss include:
- Al Fresco
- Applegate Farms
- Aidells
- Johnsonville
- Amylu
Does Chicken Sausage Make You Fat?
Well, my dear foodie, the answer is not as straightforward as we’d like it to be. While chicken sausage is a healthier alternative to its porky cousin, it can still pack a punch in the calorie department if you go overboard with it.
So, in short, chicken sausage won’t make you fat if you indulge in moderation and balance it out with other nutritious goodies. However, if you fill up your belly with more than the recommended portion, chicken sausage can be fattening!
Now, hold your horses, because not all chicken sausages have the same ingredients. Some sneaky varieties might contain added sugars and fillers that can sabotage your weight loss efforts faster than you can say “sausage fest.”
So, it’s essential to read the label and pick the ones with the lowest fat and carb content. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt to team up your chicken sausage with some veggie friends to make it a party on your plate.
Is Turkey Sausage Good for Weight Loss?
Ah, turkey sausage – the underdog of the breakfast meat world. Can this breakfast meat hero really help us win the battle of the bulge? The answer is a resounding “yes”! Turkey sausage is lower in fat and calories than traditional pork sausage, making it a smart choice for those watching their waistlines.
But wait, there’s more! Turkey sausage is also high in protein to keep you feeling fuller for longer and prevent those pesky mid-morning snack attacks.
So, if you are looking to add some sizzle to your breakfast without sabotaging your weight loss goals, turkey sausage might just be the lean, mean, breakfast machine you need.
Is Vienna Sausage Good for Weight Loss?
Being a bite-sized snack that’s perfect for on-the-go munching – Vienna sausage, can these tiny bites really help you slim down?
Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but Vienna sausages aren’t exactly the poster child for weight loss. These processed meat snacks are high in sodium, preservatives, and fat, which can wreak havoc on your diet.
Now, don’t get me wrong – I’m all for indulging in the occasional treat. But if you are serious about shedding extra pounds, Vienna sausages probably aren’t the best choice. Instead, try reaching for protein-packed snacks like nuts, hard-boiled eggs, or jerky to keep your hunger at bay. Trust me, your waistline will thank you.
Final Words
So, chicken sausage could be your new best friend on a mission to slim down. This leaner, healthier alternative to pork sausage is high in protein, low in fat, and downright delicious. But, as with any food, moderation is key. It’s important to pay attention to portion sizes and balance your chicken sausage intake with other healthy foods.
Now, go ahead and add some sizzle to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a juicy chicken sausage. Whether you grill it, bake it, or fry it up, you can enjoy this savory treat without derailing your weight loss goals.
Remember, there’s no magic food that will make you lose weight overnight. A healthy diet and regular exercise are still the best ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
And hey, if all else fails, just remember that a little bit of sausage never hurt anyone – life is all about balance, after all!
Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQs)
Are chicken sausages healthier?
Yes! Chicken sausages are typically lower in fat and calories than traditional pork sausages, making them a smart choice for those watching their waistlines. Plus, chicken sausage is a great source of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Can I eat sausage on a diet?
While sausage can be a tasty addition to your diet, it’s important to choose your sausage wisely and enjoy it in moderation. Opt for leaner varieties like chicken or turkey sausage and watch your portion sizes to avoid going overboard on the calories.
Is chicken sausage high in fat?
Compared to traditional pork sausages, chicken sausages are typically lower in fat. However, not all chicken sausages are created equal. Read the label and choose varieties with the lowest fat and carb content to ensure you are making the healthiest choice possible.
How many calories are in chicken sausage?
The number of calories in chicken sausage can vary depending on the brand and variety. However, on average, a single chicken sausage contains around 100-120 calories.