salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken is a nostalgic comfort food, bringing back memories of hearty, home-cooked meals. Traditionally made with ground beef and smothered in a rich brown gravy, this dish has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. Its origins date back to Dr. James Salisbury, a 19th-century physician who promoted minced meat as a healthful dietary choice.
In this modern twist, we swap ground beef for lean ground chicken, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative. Using chicken reduces fat and calorie content while still delivering that satisfying umami taste. Whether you’re looking for a healthier take on a classic or simply love trying new variations, this Ground Chicken Salisbury Steak will become a favorite on your dinner table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken
- Healthier Alternative: Lower in fat and calories compared to traditional beef Salisbury steak.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: A comforting meal the whole family will love.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adaptable with different seasonings and add-ins.
What is Salisbury Steak?
Despite its name, Salisbury steak isn’t a steak at all! It’s a seasoned ground meat patty, pan-seared, and served in a rich, savory brown gravy. It’s often enjoyed with mashed potatoes or egg noodles, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Why Make This Salisbury Steak Recipe?
This ground chicken version offers all the comforting flavors of classic Salisbury steak with a healthier twist. The combination of seasonings and a luscious gravy ensures that you won’t miss the beef!
Ingredients

For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Gravy:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Patties
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized oval patties.
2. Cook the Patties

- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Gravy

- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and mushrooms until softened.
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to remove the raw taste.
- Slowly pour in the broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Let the gravy simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked patties to the skillet, spooning some gravy over the top.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Substitutions & Variations
- Meat Swap: Try ground turkey instead of chicken for a slightly different flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer Magic:
- Cook the patties and let them cool completely before freezing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Salisbury steak is best enjoyed with classic comfort food sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the rich gravy perfectly.
- Egg Noodles: A great alternative for a more pasta-style dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition.
- Rice or Cauliflower Rice: A lighter option that still pairs well with the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Salisbury steak without mushrooms?
Absolutely! Simply omit the mushrooms and add extra onions or bell peppers for a different texture.
2. How do I keep the chicken patties from falling apart?
Make sure to use enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind the mixture together. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before cooking can also help.
3. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, then add them to the gravy and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Is this dish meal-prep friendly?
Yes! Cook the patties and gravy in advance, store separately, and combine when ready to eat.
Conclusion
This Ground Chicken Salisbury Steak is proof that you don’t need beef to enjoy a rich, comforting meal. It’s healthier, just as satisfying, and easy to make any night of the week. Try it for your next family dinner, and don’t forget to customize it to your liking!
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! For more easy, delicious recipes, check out other posts on TastyVibesRecipes.

Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet For cooking the patties and gravy
- Mixing bowl To combine ingredients for the patties
- Spatula For flipping patties
- Whisk To mix the gravy smoothly
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
For the Gravy:
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup onion finely chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: Mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into 4 oval patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and mushrooms. Stir in flour, then gradually add broth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and thyme. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine & Serve: Return patties to skillet, coat with gravy, and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
Notes
- Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb version.
- Use ground turkey instead of chicken if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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