Ever wondered what chicken chorizo actually is? You’re not alone! As someone who’s experimented with this tasty ingredient in countless recipes, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about this flavorful meat option that’s been gaining popularity in kitchens everywhere.
Chicken chorizo combines the bold, spicy flavors of traditional chorizo with the leaner benefits of ground chicken. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy chorizo’s distinctive taste while making a slightly healthier choice. Let’s dive into what makes this versatile ingredient so special!
What Exactly is Chicken Chorizo?
Chicken chorizo is a type of sausage made primarily from ground chicken instead of the traditional pork It’s seasoned with the same vibrant spice blend that gives chorizo its signature flavor profile – typically including paprika (especially smoked paprika), chili powder, garlic, and other aromatic spices
The key characteristics of chicken chorizo include:
- Main protein: Ground chicken (often a mix of dark and light meat)
- Distinctive red color: Usually from paprika
- Flavor profile: Spicy, smoky, and savory
- Cooking requirement: Unlike some Spanish chorizos, chicken chorizo is almost always sold raw and requires thorough cooking
What sets chicken chorizo apart from other chicken sausages is its intense seasoning While regular chicken sausages might focus on herbs and milder flavors, chicken chorizo brings bold spices and that characteristic smoky heat that chorizo lovers crave
Chicken Chorizo vs. Traditional Pork Chorizo
If you’re familiar with traditional pork chorizo, you might be wondering how the chicken version compares. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Chicken Chorizo | Pork Chorizo |
|---|---|---|
| Calories (per 3oz/85g) | ~190 kcal | ~260 kcal |
| Protein | ~22g | ~18g |
| Total Fat | ~11g | ~22g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3g | ~8g |
| Texture | Slightly lighter | Denser, fattier |
| Flavor | Similar spice profile but lighter | Richer, more intense |
The biggest difference? Chicken chorizo offers a lighter alternative with significantly less fat while still delivering that classic chorizo flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for those watching their fat intake but who don’t want to sacrifice flavor!
What’s in Chicken Chorizo? The Ingredients
The specific ingredients can vary between brands and homemade recipes, but most chicken chorizo contains:
Core Ingredients:
- Ground chicken (usually thigh meat for better moisture and flavor)
- Paprika (often smoked paprika for depth)
- Garlic (fresh or powdered)
- Chili powder or cayenne pepper
- Vinegar (adds tanginess and helps preserve)
- Salt
Common Additional Spices:
- Cumin
- Oregano
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
- Coriander
- Sometimes even cinnamon or cloves for complexity
For example, Primal Pastures’ Ground Chicken Chorizo contains: “Pasture-raised chicken, water, sea salt, organic paprika, organic cumin, organic granulated garlic, organic oregano, organic allspice, organic chipotle powder.” Their chicken is pasture-raised, non-vegetarian-fed, and free from corn, soy, and GMOs.
How to Cook with Chicken Chorizo
One of the best things about chicken chorizo is its versatility in the kitchen! Here’s how to use it:
Preparation Methods:
- Removal from casing: Most chicken chorizo comes in a casing that you may want to remove for crumbled applications like tacos
- Sautéing: The most common method – cook in a pan over medium heat until browned and cooked through (165°F internal temperature)
- Grilling: Chicken chorizo links can be grilled until fully cooked
- Baking: Works well in casseroles, frittatas, and other baked dishes
Delicious Recipe Ideas:
- Breakfast dishes: Mix with scrambled eggs for an amazing breakfast burrito
- Tacos and quesadillas: Crumble and cook for a flavorful filling
- Soups and stews: Adds depth and spice to broths
- Pasta dishes: Creates a spicy, smoky sauce base
- Rice dishes: Works beautifully in paella or similar one-pot meals
- Pizza topping: Crumble over pizza for extra flavor
- Stuffed vegetables: Perfect for stuffing peppers or mushrooms
I personally love adding chicken chorizo to my weekend breakfast scramble – the spicy kick really wakes up my tastebuds in the morning!
Health Benefits of Choosing Chicken Chorizo
If you’re trying to make healthier choices but still want big flavor, chicken chorizo offers several advantages:
- Lower fat content: Contains about half the fat of pork chorizo
- Higher protein: Offers more protein per serving than pork versions
- Fewer calories: About 70 fewer calories per 3-ounce serving
- Less saturated fat: Contains less of the fats associated with cardiovascular concerns
However, be aware that chicken chorizo still contains sodium from both salt and spices. If you’re watching your sodium intake, read labels carefully or consider making your own at home where you can control the salt level.
FAQs About Chicken Chorizo
Is chicken chorizo healthier than pork chorizo?
Yes! Chicken chorizo typically has lower fat content, fewer calories, and more protein than traditional pork chorizo, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
What does chicken chorizo taste like?
Chicken chorizo tastes very similar to pork chorizo – spicy, smoky, and savory. The main difference is in texture, which may be slightly less dense than pork chorizo. The flavor comes primarily from the spice blend rather than the meat itself.
Where can I buy chicken chorizo?
You can find chicken chorizo at most major grocery stores in the meat section, often near other sausage varieties. Specialty butcher shops and Mexican or Latin American grocery stores are also excellent sources. Online retailers like Primal Pastures also offer high-quality chicken chorizo.
Can I make chicken chorizo at home?
Absolutely! Homemade chicken chorizo is relatively easy to make. Simply combine ground chicken with paprika, garlic, chili powder, vinegar, and other desired spices. This allows you to control the ingredients and spice levels to your preference.
How should I store chicken chorizo?
Raw chicken chorizo should be stored in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F (4°C) and used within 1-2 days. Cooked chicken chorizo can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze raw or cooked chorizo in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Is chicken chorizo gluten-free?
Not necessarily. While chicken itself is gluten-free, some commercially produced chicken chorizo may contain gluten as an additive or filler. Always check the ingredient list to ensure the product is labeled as gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivity.
Is chicken chorizo spicy?
Chicken chorizo is typically spicy, but the level of heat can vary greatly depending on the brand and recipe. Some brands offer mild, medium, and hot versions. If you’re sensitive to spice, look for a mild variety or make your own at home to control the heat level.
How to Choose the Best Chicken Chorizo
When shopping for chicken chorizo, here are some tips:
- Check the ingredients list: Look for products with simple, recognizable ingredients
- Consider the chicken source: Pasture-raised or organic options may offer better flavor and nutrition
- Spice level: Choose based on your heat preference (some brands specify mild, medium, or hot)
- Fresh vs. pre-cooked: Most chicken chorizo is sold fresh and uncooked, but some pre-cooked options exist for convenience
- Casing or no casing: Depends on your intended use (casing is good for grilling whole, no casing is convenient for crumbling)
Make Your Own Chicken Chorizo at Home
Wanna try making your own? It’s easier than you might think! Here’s a simple recipe:
Basic Homemade Chicken Chorizo
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken (preferably thigh meat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is better) to let flavors meld
- Cook as desired – form into patties, crumble into a pan, or stuff into casings
The best part of homemade is customizing the spice level to your exact preference!
Final Thoughts
Chicken chorizo represents a creative twist on a classic ingredient that brings bold flavors to your meals with a healthier nutritional profile. Whether you’re making breakfast tacos, spicing up a stew, or looking for a flavorful protein option, chicken chorizo delivers big taste in a lighter package.
I’ve been incorporating chicken chorizo into my cooking for years now, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen. My family honestly can’t tell the difference between the chicken and pork versions in most recipes, but they do notice when I skip the chorizo altogether!
Have you tried chicken chorizo yet? What’s your favorite way to use it? Whatever your cooking style, this versatile ingredient is worth adding to your culinary repertoire!
How to make Mexican chorizo from scratch: the meat Making homemade Mexican chorizo isn’t as intimidating as you might think. If you’ve followed my blog for a while and have tried the recipes that work with dried chiles, you’re halfway there. If you’re new, no worries! I walk you through the process.
| Deboning your own chicken will, besides saving a few pennies, give you more control over the quality of the chicken you use. |
| Leaving all the fat intact and removing half of the skins will ensure that there is enough fat to keep the sausage tender and juicy. |
| After cutting the chicken into 1-inch pieces, place the chicken in the refrigerator and the grinder in the freezer for at least an hour. |
| To prep chiles, the stems get removed, the chile sliced up the side and then the veins and seeds removed. |
| Use a spice grinder to grind the whole spices. |
| The chiles and spices get pureed with some vinegar until thick and smooth. |
| The adobo sauce gets added to the meat and mixed thoroughly. |
For a healthier version, try homemade chicken Mexican chorizo
If youre shy about eating chorizo because its too greasy, try this homemade Mexican chicken chorizo. Less fat, full flavor!
| Mexican chicken chorizo cooked here with onions and diced potatoes. |