If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier twist on a classic dish, this Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is the perfect choice! This version takes all the rich, comforting flavors of traditional Salisbury steak but replaces ground beef with lean ground chicken, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying meal.
Packed with juicy, well-seasoned chicken patties smothered in a savory mushroom gravy, this dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. Plus, it pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete, hearty meal.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken, covering everything from the essential ingredients to pro cooking tips that guarantee tender, flavorful patties every time.
Table of Contents
What is Salisbury Steak?
A Classic American Comfort Dish
Salisbury steak is often mistaken for a hamburger steak, but it’s actually a seasoned ground meat patty simmered in a rich gravy. Unlike regular hamburgers, which are served on buns, Salisbury steak is meant to be eaten as a main dish, usually paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables.
Origins of Salisbury Steak
The dish dates back to the late 19th century, named after Dr. James Henry Salisbury, who promoted a meat-based diet for health benefits. The original version was made with minced beef and served with brown gravy. Over time, it became a staple in American households and evolved into the comfort food we know today.
How is This Version Different?
While traditional Salisbury steak is made with ground beef, this recipe swaps beef for ground chicken, making it:
✔ Lighter & Leaner: Ground chicken has less fat than beef, making it a healthier choice.
✔ Tender & Juicy: With the right ingredients and cooking method, you still get a moist, flavorful patty.
✔ Packed with Flavor: Seasonings and a rich mushroom gravy keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Why Choose Ground Chicken for Salisbury Steak?
Traditional Salisbury steak is made with ground beef, but using ground chicken offers several benefits—from healthier nutrition to a lighter, yet still flavorful dish. Here’s why you should consider making Salisbury steak with ground chicken instead of beef:
1. A Leaner and Healthier Alternative
One of the biggest advantages of using ground chicken is that it’s leaner than beef, making it a great option for those watching their fat intake.
- Ground beef (80/20 blend): About 23g of fat per serving
- Ground chicken: Only 9-10g of fat per serving
By swapping beef for chicken, you can reduce the fat content of your Salisbury steak while still enjoying a rich, savory meal.
2. High in Protein, Low in Calories
Despite being lower in fat, ground chicken is still packed with protein, helping to keep you full and energized. Compared to ground beef, chicken provides a similar amount of protein but with fewer calories, making it an excellent option for a balanced diet.
- 4 oz of ground chicken → Around 22g of protein & 160 calories
- 4 oz of ground beef (80/20) → Around 19g of protein & 290 calories
This makes ground chicken Salisbury steak a great choice for meal prepping, weight management, and a healthier lifestyle.
3. A Lighter Taste Without Sacrificing Flavor
While beef has a rich, heavy flavor, ground chicken has a milder taste that absorbs seasonings and sauces exceptionally well. This means you can still achieve a deep, umami-packed dish by using:
✔ Worcestershire sauce – Adds a smoky, meaty depth of flavor
✔ Onions & garlic – Enhances the savory profile
✔ Mushroom gravy – A rich, hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken
By using the right spices and cooking techniques, you’ll get the same comforting taste of classic Salisbury steak—without needing beef!
4. Versatile and Budget-Friendly
Ground chicken is often cheaper than beef, making it a cost-effective choice for family meals. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can use it for:
- Salisbury steak
- Chicken meatballs
- Chicken burgers
- Stuffed bell peppers
This means you can buy ground chicken in bulk and use it for multiple meals throughout the week!
5. A Better Option for Special Diets
If you’re looking for a healthier, lower-fat, or gluten-free alternative, ground chicken works beautifully. It’s also a great option for people who:
- Want to reduce red meat consumption
- Follow a lower-fat or heart-healthy diet
- Prefer a milder-tasting protein
With the right ingredients and cooking method, you won’t even miss the beef in this delicious, juicy Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken!
Ingredients for Ground Chicken Salisbury Steak
To make the best Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken, you need a combination of juicy, well-seasoned patties and a rich, flavorful mushroom gravy. Below is a breakdown of all the essential ingredients and their roles in the dish.
Essential Ingredients for the Chicken Patties
A great Salisbury steak patty should be juicy, well-seasoned, and hold its shape. These ingredients help achieve the perfect texture and flavor:
1. Ground Chicken (1 lb)
- The main ingredient of the dish.
- Opt for ground chicken with some fat content (not 99% lean) to keep the patties moist and flavorful.
2. Breadcrumbs (½ cup)
- Helps bind the patties together and keeps them tender.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture or regular breadcrumbs for a denser patty.
3. Egg (1 large)
- Acts as a binding agent, keeping the patties from falling apart while cooking.
4. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon)
- Adds umami depth and a slightly smoky, savory flavor.
- Helps mimic the rich taste of beef in this chicken-based dish.
5. Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
- Enhances the overall savory flavor of the patties.
6. Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
- Adds a mild sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
7. Dijon Mustard (½ teaspoon) – Optional but Recommended
- Gives the patties a little tang and extra richness.
- Balances out the flavors with a slight sharpness.
8. Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- Essential seasonings to bring out the best flavors in the patties.
9. Olive Oil or Butter (for frying)
- Helps brown the patties beautifully while adding extra flavor.
Ingredients for the Rich Mushroom Gravy
A good Salisbury steak isn’t complete without a savory, flavorful gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Used to sauté the mushrooms and onions, adding richness to the sauce.
2. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)
- Adds earthy, umami depth to the gravy.
- Use baby bella (cremini) or white mushrooms for the best flavor.
3. Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
- Provides a sweet and slightly caramelized flavor to the gravy.
4. Beef Broth (1 ½ cups)
- The base of the gravy—gives it a classic, deep flavor.
- Even though this is a chicken dish, using beef broth enhances the umami taste and makes it taste more like traditional Salisbury steak.
5. Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon)
- Adds depth and a meaty richness to the gravy.
6. Soy Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Optional but Recommended
- Enhances the umami flavor and gives the gravy a deep brown color.
7. All-Purpose Flour (1 tablespoon)
- Used as a thickening agent to give the gravy a silky texture.
8. Heavy Cream or Milk (¼ cup) – Optional, for Creamier Gravy
- If you like a slightly creamier gravy, adding a splash of cream or milk at the end makes it extra rich.
9. Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- Season to your preference once the gravy is fully cooked.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
Want to customize your Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken? Try these add-ins:
- Fresh Parsley or Thyme – Adds a touch of freshness to the patties or gravy.
- A Dash of Paprika – Gives the patties a warm, smoky undertone.
- A Splash of Balsamic Vinegar – Adds a little tang and enhances the depth of the gravy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making juicy Salisbury steak patties and a rich mushroom gravy.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can make the patties dense.
- Shape the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into oval patties, about ½ inch thick.
- If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly coat your hands with oil or water while shaping the patties.
- Preheat the Pan:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the patties, leaving some space between them.
- Sear the Patties:
- Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- The patties don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the gravy.
- Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Mushroom Gravy
- Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and cook for 2 minutes, until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4–5 minutes, until they release their juices and become golden brown.
- Add the Flour:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce (if using), stirring until everything is combined.
- Simmer the Gravy:
- Let the gravy simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper, if needed.
Step 3: Combine the Patties with the Gravy
- Return the Patties to the Pan:
- Gently place the browned chicken patties back into the skillet with the gravy.
- Spoon some gravy over the top of each patty to coat them.
- Simmer Until Fully Cooked:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the patties simmer in the gravy for 8–10 minutes.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finish the Gravy:(Optional)
- For a creamier texture, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or milk at the end.
- Let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the Salisbury Steak:
- Transfer the patties onto plates and generously spoon the mushroom gravy over the top.
- Pair with Side Dishes:
- Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
To complete your Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken, pair it with side dishes that complement its rich mushroom gravy. Here are some top choices:
Classic Pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up the gravy.
- Egg Noodles – A light, tender base that absorbs the flavors well.
- Steamed Rice – A simple yet effective option for balancing the dish.
Vegetable Sides:
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers for a caramelized touch.
- Sautéed Green Beans – A crisp, fresh contrast to the rich steak.
- Parmesan Roasted Broccoli – Nutty and flavorful with a crispy texture.
Other Great Choices:
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Ideal for soaking up extra gravy.
- Side Salad – A fresh garden or Caesar salad to lighten the meal.
- Creamed Spinach – Rich and creamy, adding extra comfort.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – A decadent and satisfying side option.
Choose your sides based on your preference—whether you want comfort food, a lighter meal, or bold flavors, these options pair beautifully with Salisbury steak.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just be sure to use 85% lean turkey for the best texture and moisture.
2. How do I prevent my chicken patties from falling apart?
To help bind the patties, make sure to use breadcrumbs and an egg. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
4. Can I make Salisbury steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can:
- Make the patties in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Cook everything and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze cooked patties (without gravy) for up to 3 months and reheat when needed.
5. How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?
If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water, then stir it into the gravy and let it simmer until thickened.
6. What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy.
Conclusion
This Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a healthier, flavorful twist on the classic dish. By using lean ground chicken, a rich mushroom gravy, and the right seasonings, you can enjoy all the comforting flavors of Salisbury steak in a lighter, yet satisfying way.
Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, customize, and even freeze for later.
Now it’s time to give it a try! Enjoy your homemade ground chicken Salisbury steak, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends.
Love this recipe? Try our Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for another tasty way to use ground chicken. Pair it with a comforting Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Soup or check out our Ground Beef and Eggs for a hearty breakfast idea!