If you're looking for a tasty and healthier option for sausage, 1 link (85g) of mild Italian chicken sausage could be a great choice for you. This type of sausage contains approximately 140 calories, making it a perfect food for a quick snack or as an addition to a meal.

In addition to its lower caloric value, this sausage is also a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It can also provide the necessary energy to fuel your daily activities. To get more detailed nutritional information, continue reading below.

Whether you're a beginner or a pro in the kitchen, the following tips and tricks will help you get the most out of your mild Italian chicken sausage, from cooking to serving and storing.

Calories in One Link

As mentioned earlier, one link (85g) of mild Italian chicken sausage contains around 140 calories. This amount can vary slightly depending on the brand and the recipe, but it remains a relatively low-calorie food, especially when compared to other types of sausage. If you're counting calories, it's worth noting that the serving size of this sausage is relatively small, so you can easily fit it into your daily calorie intake without feeling guilty.

Protein Content

Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair muscle tissues, promotes healthy bones, and promotes satiety, which can reduce hunger and prevent overeating. Luckily, mild Italian chicken sausage is a great source of protein, with one link (85g) providing around 15 grams of protein. That's almost a third of the recommended daily protein intake for an adult, making it an excellent choice for adding some extra protein to your meals or snacks. Keep in mind that while this sausage is a great source of protein, it's sometimes high in sodium and fat, especially when prepared with cheese or other high-fat toppings.

Fat Content

Mild Italian chicken sausage is a good source of fat, providing around 9 grams of fat per link (85g). While this amount may seem high, most of the fat in this sausage comes from healthy unsaturated fats, which can lower cholesterol levels, improve brain function, and provide energy for the body. However, it's important to note that some brands of chicken sausage can have more saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation as they can increase the risk of heart disease.

Sodium Content

One potential downside to eating mild Italian chicken sausage is that it can be quite high in sodium, which is a mineral that can increase blood pressure and contribute to heart disease when consumed in excess. Most chicken sausages contain around 500-700mg of sodium per link (85g), which is around 20-30% of the recommended daily intake. To reduce your sodium intake, you can opt for low-sodium chicken sausage or look for other alternatives to balance your diet.

Carbohydrate Content

Carbohydrate is the primary source of energy for the body, and it's found in various foods, including sausage. One link (85g) of mild Italian chicken sausage contains around 3 grams of carbohydrates, making it a low-carb food that's perfect for those following a low-carb diet. However, keep in mind that some brands of chicken sausage may have extra carbohydrates from added sugars or other sources, so always check the label before making a purchase.

Vitamins and Minerals

While mild Italian chicken sausage is not the most nutrient-dense food, it still provides various vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function correctly. Some of these vitamins and minerals include vitamin B12, vitamin E, selenium, and zinc. These nutrients can support healthy brain function, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin, among other benefits. However, keep in mind that you should not rely solely on chicken sausage to get these nutrients. It's recommended that you eat a balanced and varied diet to meet your nutritional needs.

Allergen Info

Mild Italian chicken sausage is a common food that may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a chicken or poultry allergy, you should avoid this food. Similarly, if you have celiac disease or are gluten intolerant, you should check the label to ensure that the sausage does not contain gluten. Some brands of chicken sausage may also contain other allergens, such as soy or nuts, so always read the label before making a purchase.

Cooking Tips

Cooking mild Italian chicken sausage is relatively easy, and there are many ways you can prepare it. You can grill, bake, or pan-fry the sausage, depending on your cooking preferences. If you want to grill or pan-fry the sausage, you can preheat the grill or frying pan and cook the sausage for around 5-7 minutes on each side, making sure it's fully cooked. If you want to bake the sausage, you can preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the sausage for around 20-25 minutes until it's fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

One of the best things about mild Italian chicken sausage is that it's versatile and can be used in many dishes. You can eat it as a snack or add it to various meals, such as pizzas, casseroles, soups, and sandwiches. If you're looking for some inspiration, you can try making a chicken sausage and vegetable stir-fry or a chicken sausage and lentil soup. You can also use it as a topping for your pizzas or add it to your breakfast omelets.

Storage Recommendations

To preserve the quality and freshness of your mild Italian chicken sausage, you should store it properly. Keep it in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or less for up to five days, or freeze it for up to six months. Before freezing, make sure to remove the sausage from its packaging and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.