Homemade Chicken Salami (No Additives!)
Introduction
Skip store-bought sausages — this Homemade Chicken Salami is healthy, flavorful, and easy to make with simple ingredients you can trust. Made from chicken leg meat and spiced just right, it’s creamy, tender, and perfect for sandwiches, breakfast, or snacks. No preservatives, no additives — just pure, homemade goodness!
Origin and Cultural Significance
Salami traditionally originates from Europe, where families would cure and season meats to preserve them. Over time, versions evolved worldwide — including lighter poultry versions like chicken salami, loved for its delicate flavor and lean texture. This homemade recipe is inspired by old-fashioned preparation methods that rely on natural seasoning and careful cooking instead of chemical additives, bringing wholesome tradition to the modern kitchen.
Ingredients and Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken leg meat (boneless, skinless) | 1.2 kg (about 2.6 lbs) |
| Table salt | 15 g (1 tbsp) |
| Cold cream (30% fat) | 70 g (about ¼ cup) |
| Dry garlic | 1 g (¼ tsp) |
| Ground black pepper | 1 g (¼ tsp) |
| Ground allspice | 1 g (¼ tsp) |
| Ground coriander | 1 g (¼ tsp) |
(Optional additions below)
Optional Additions
- Chili flakes or paprika – for a spicy kick
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme) – for fragrance
- Mustard seeds – for extra texture and tang
- Smoked paprika – to give a smoky flavor without additives
Tips for Success
- Keep everything cold — meat, cream, and equipment. This helps bind the mixture and gives salami its smooth texture.
- Grind the meat finely — or use a food processor until it becomes a smooth paste.
- Mix thoroughly — the mixture should be sticky and uniform before shaping.
- Wrap tightly — remove all air when shaping into logs; this ensures even cooking.
- Cool completely — after cooking, refrigerate before slicing for the best texture.
Instructions
- Prepare the meat:
Cut the chicken leg meat into small pieces. Using a meat grinder or food processor, grind until smooth. - Season and mix:
Add salt, dry garlic, black pepper, allspice, and coriander. Pour in the cold cream. Mix well with your hands or a stand mixer until the mixture becomes sticky and elastic (this helps it hold together like real salami). - Shape the salami:
Place the mixture on plastic wrap or food-safe cling film. Roll tightly into a sausage shape (about 2–3 inches thick). Twist the ends firmly to seal. For best results, wrap again in foil. - Cook the salami:
Place the wrapped roll in a pot of hot (not boiling) water, around 80–85°C (175–185°F). Simmer gently for 1 hour.
(Do not let the water boil — slow cooking ensures a tender, even texture.) - Cool and set:
Remove from water and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to firm up. - Serve:
Unwrap and slice thinly. Enjoy it cold or lightly pan-seared!
Description
This Homemade Chicken Salami is tender, flavorful, and naturally delicious — with a gentle mix of garlic, pepper, and warm spices. The addition of cream gives it a rich, smooth texture, while the chicken provides lean, high-quality protein. Perfect for sandwiches, breakfast, or a snack plate!
Nutritional Information (Approx. per 100 g serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
(Values may vary depending on the cut of chicken and added ingredients.)
Conclusion
This additive-free Chicken Salami proves that homemade is always better — clean, wholesome, and full of flavor. It’s simple to make, stores well in the fridge, and gives you total control over ingredients and taste.
Recommendation
Serve your chicken salami on sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or breakfast platters. It also makes a great protein snack with cheese, olives, or crusty bread. Keep refrigerated for up to 5–6 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
By making your own salami, you skip preservatives, artificial colorings, and fillers — choosing instead real, natural ingredients. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a protein-rich, wholesome meal while honoring traditional cooking methods and your health.
Homemade food truly tastes better — and this chicken salami is proof!