A hearty and flavorful dish, Chicken Bratwurst with Pork brings together the savory depth of pork and the lighter profile of chicken bratwurst. Topped with sweet caramelized onions and tangy sauerkraut, and paired with crisp, fresh vegetable sides, this is a well-rounded meal perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a summer afternoon or as a comforting dinner, this recipe is satisfying, easy to prepare, and nutritionally balanced.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines the richness of pork with the lightness of chicken for a flavorful bratwurst pairing
Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
Ideal for grilling or pan-cooking, giving flexibility in preparation
Served with fresh cucumber, carrot, and apple for a nutritious and colorful plate
Perfect for meal prep or casual gatherings
Balanced with protein, fiber, and natural sweetness from the sides
Great for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts
Family-friendly and easy to customize
Uses simple, accessible ingredients
A wholesome alternative to traditional bratwurst meals

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 chicken bratwurst sausages
2 pork bratwurst sausages
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1/2 cup sauerkraut
4 whole wheat hot dog buns
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1 small carrot, sliced into sticks
1 small apple, cut into slices

directions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, place the chicken and pork bratwurst sausages into the skillet. Cook for about 7–8 minutes on each side, or until browned and thoroughly cooked.
In a separate pan, sauté the onion slices in a small amount of oil over medium heat. Cook until the onions are soft and caramelized, approximately 10 minutes.
Remove the cooked sausages from the skillet and set aside.
Toast the whole wheat buns in the same skillet for a couple of minutes until they are lightly browned.
Place each sausage into a toasted bun. Top with caramelized onions and sauerkraut.
Serve immediately with cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and apple slices on the side.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add Dijon mustard or sriracha for extra flavor.
Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheese inside the buns before adding the sausage.
Bun Alternatives: Serve the bratwurst over a bed of greens or in a wrap for a low-carb version.
Vegetable Swap: Try bell pepper slices or cherry tomatoes instead of cucumber and carrots.
Sauerkraut Upgrade: Mix in caraway seeds or a splash of apple cider vinegar for added flavor.
Grilled Option: Cook the sausages and buns on a grill for a smoky twist.
Pickled Sides: Add pickled vegetables to complement the sauerkraut.

storage/reheating

Storage:
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. The bratwurst and toppings can be stored for up to 3 days. Store buns separately to prevent sogginess.

Reheating:
Reheat sausages in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for about 1–2 minutes. Toast the buns again if desired for better texture. Serve with fresh sides or replace with newly cut vegetables and fruit.

FAQs

How can I tell when bratwurst is fully cooked?

Bratwurst is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the juices run clear.

Can I use only chicken or pork bratwurst?

Yes, you can use either type alone depending on preference or availability. The blend offers a balanced flavor, but single-protein versions work well too.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can substitute with plant-based bratwurst alternatives and skip the pork or chicken. Use oil for cooking and keep the toppings and sides the same.

What type of sauerkraut is best for this recipe?

Traditional fermented sauerkraut without added sugar or preservatives offers the best flavor and health benefits.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can cook the bratwurst and onions ahead of time and reheat before serving. Add fresh sides just before serving to maintain crispness.

How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?

Toast the buns and add toppings only when ready to serve. You can also line the bun with lettuce to create a moisture barrier.

What side dishes go well with bratwurst?

Potato salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or baked beans pair well with bratwurst, in addition to the fresh vegetable and fruit sides in the recipe.

Is this meal suitable for kids?

Yes, the mild flavors and healthy sides make it suitable for children. You may want to skip sauerkraut or spices based on their preferences.

Can I freeze the cooked bratwurst?

Yes, cooked bratwurst can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely, then wrap individually and store in an airtight container.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bratwurst and substitute the whole wheat buns with gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.

Conclusion

Chicken Bratwurst with Pork offers a savory, wholesome twist on a classic sausage dish. The combination of flavorful meats, sweet and tangy toppings, and refreshing sides creates a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether prepared for a quick weeknight dinner or served at a casual gathering, this recipe is easy to make, versatile, and sure to be enjoyed by all.