How to Make Healthy, Homemade Dog Food with Chicken
Chicken is one of the easiest proteins to cook, and it’s incredibly healthy for your pup—it’s no wonder it’s part of so many homemade dog food recipes! Chock full of omega-6 fatty acids for your dog’s skin and coat, as well as healthy amino acids and (of course) lean protein, it’s the perfect ingredient to include in your dog’s diet.
If you’re looking for a homemade dog food recipe that features chicken as the main protein, we’ve got you covered. Check out the recipe below, which combines boneless chicken with tasty sweet potatoes, carrots, and brown rice.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken breast (skinless and boneless)
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- ½ cup cooked brown rice
Directions
- Prepare your ingredients: pound chicken breast to about 1” thick, peel and chop sweet potatoes into 1” pieces, peel and slice carrot into 1” pieces, cook rice and set aside.
- Preheat a skillet to medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Add chicken to skillet and cook for about 5 minutes per side, flipping over at the halfway mark. Check temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it has reached 165° F. Let chicken rest and then cut into 1” pieces. Set aside.
- In a large pot, add sweet potato pieces and enough water to cover all the potatoes. Bring to a boil and then continue cooking for 15-20 minutes on medium heat.
- Remove potatoes and use a masher to mash potatoes to your desired consistency.
- Re-oil skillet and set to medium heat. Add chicken and sweet potatoes, stirring to combine, and then add the sliced carrot.
- Cover pan, reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for about 10 minutes until carrots have softened.
- Remove from heat and let the food cool fully before serving.
FAQs with Our Vet Nutritionist
How do I serve this chicken recipe to my pup?
You can serve this recipe right away while it’s still warm, or cool it in the fridge first. If your pup prefers wet food, you can also thin out the recipe with some chicken broth. Serving size will vary depending on your dog’s size; we recommend serving about a ½ cup for every 20-25 pounds of body weight.
How do I store this recipe?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days; you can also freeze this recipe and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What if my dog doesn’t like this recipe?
Similar to humans, some dogs are just picky eaters! Keep trying out recipes to find one your pup loves. Keep in mind that it’s also common for dogs to be allergic to chicken. If you notice any gastrointestinal issues or skin infections, talk to your vet. You may need to opt for an alternative protein that’s gentler on the tummy, such as lamb.
Can I feed chicken to my dog every day?
Chicken is a fantastic ingredient to feed your dog, but it’s also important that your pup gets a balanced diet! While many of the homemade dog food recipes you can find (including the one above!) are easy to cook, studies have shown that most DIY recipes still lack all the necessary nutrients that would make it an adequate everyday meal.
To ensure your pup is getting everything they need to stay healthy and happy, we recommend working with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Tip: Save Time with PetPlate
Want to make life a little easier? PetPlate’s here to help. Our vet nutritionist, Dr. Renee Streeter, has been with us since day one, crafting each of our recipes to ensure they’re both highly palatable and perfectly balanced.
With four recipes to choose from—all made with high-quality, human-grade, and whole-food ingredients—you’re bound to find one that your dog loves. Plus, meals are delivered right to your door and on your schedule. You’ll have more time to spend with your furry family members, backed with the peace of mind that you’re serving them the best.
Learn more about our Chompin Chicken Recipe and get started today!