Simple Truth Chicken Sausage

A Close Look at This Popular Grocery Store Brand’s Chicken Sausages

Chicken sausage is a versatile, flavorful, and protein-packed staple that can be enjoyed in everything from breakfast tacos to pasta dishes. As consumers become more concerned about ingredients, many are turning to natural and organic options like Simple Truth chicken sausage.

Simple Truth is the natural and organic private label brand sold exclusively at Kroger grocery stores. With no antibiotics, nitrates, gluten or preservatives, Simple Truth chicken sausages offer a convenient shortcut to a fast, healthy meal. But how do you know if Simple Truth’s chicken sausages are right for you? This comprehensive buying guide takes an in-depth look at Simple Truth chicken sausage to help you determine if it deserves a spot in your grocery cart.

An Overview of Simple Truth Chicken Sausage

Simple Truth offers an array of chicken sausage varieties made from chicken mixed with herbs, spices, vegetables and cheeses. Some of the most popular flavors include:

• Italian Style Chicken Sausage
• Apple Maple Chicken Sausage
• Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Chicken Sausage
• Chicken Sausage with Broccoli & Cheddar
• Chicken Sausage with Spinach & Feta

In addition to classic fresh sausages, Simple Truth also offers fully-cooked chicken sausages to heat and eat. These come in flavors like Chicken Sausage Patties with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil or Fully Cooked Chicken Apple Maple Sausage Links.

All Simple Truth chicken sausages are free from nitrates, nitrites, antibiotics and artificial preservatives. They contain no gluten ingredients, which makes them a good choice for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. The chicken is also certified humane, meaning the animals are raised in a ethical manner with no cages or crates.

What Ingredients Are in Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

The main ingredient in all varieties of Simple Truth chicken sausage is chicken breast meat and chicken thigh meat. This is combined with seasonings, herbs and spices like sea salt, garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary and fennel seed.

Some varieties also contain vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, broccoli and onions. The cheese versions feature cheddar, Monterey Jack, feta or Asiago cheese.

Other ingredients include brown rice, flours like tapioca starch or potato starch, and oils such as avocado, sunflower or olive oil. Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges are used for their juice.

Simple Truth chicken sausages contain no artificial flavors, colors or chemical preservatives. They are minimally processed with ingredients you can recognize. The ingredient lists are short and straightforward.

Where Can I Buy Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Simple Truth products are sold exclusively at Kroger stores across the United States. This includes Kroger Marketplace, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, Fry’s Food Stores and other Kroger banners.

You can find Simple Truth chicken sausage in the fresh meat department, often near the packaged fresh sausages. Fully cooked varieties may be sold in the deli section. You can also ask the butcher counter if they have Simple Truth chicken sausage available.

When purchasing, look for the Simple Truth logo featuring an orange leaf and green banner. Only products with this logo are part of the natural Simple Truth line.

You can also browse and purchase Simple Truth chicken sausage online for pickup or delivery on Kroger.com. This makes it easy to add it to your online grocery order.

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Nitrate-Free?

Yes, one of the benefits of Simple Truth chicken sausage is that it is 100% free of added nitrates or nitrites. Many conventional sausages contain these chemical preservatives to extend shelf life and add color.

However, there have been health concerns about possible links between nitrates/nitrites and cancer. Simple Truth chicken sausages skip these controversial ingredients and instead use natural preservatives like lemon juice, celery juice and cherry powder.

So you can feel good about serving Simple Truth nitrate-free chicken sausages to your family. They provide the same great taste without the additives.

How to Cook Simple Truth Chicken Sausage

Simple Truth chicken sausages are fully cooked so they just need to be heated through. Here are some quick and easy ways to cook them:

• Pan fried or sautéed: Slice sausages and cook in an oiled skillet over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes until browned and heated through.
• Baked: Place sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until firm.
• Grilled: Grill sausages over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until grill marks appear.
• Microwaved: Microwave on HIGH for 60-90 seconds until hot.

Fully cooked varieties like chicken sausage patties just need 45-60 seconds in the microwave – making them super fast.

• In soups or pasta: Slice and add raw sausage to soups, chilis or pasta dishes to cook through.

Simple Truth chicken sausage pairs deliciously with veggies, greens, eggs, rice, couscous and more. Get creative with your recipe ideas!

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Gluten-Free?

The majority of Simple Truth chicken sausage varieties are certified gluten-free, meaning they contain less than 20ppm of gluten. Always verify on the packaging, as a few flavors contain wheat flour or barley and are NOT gluten-free.

For those who need to avoid gluten, Simple Truth offers great options like:

• Italian Style Chicken Sausage
• Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Chicken Sausage
• Chicken Sausage with Broccoli & Cheddar

These varieties are made without gluten-containing grains. They use gluten-free flours like tapioca starch instead.

With delicious gluten-free varieties, Simple Truth chicken sausage is ideal for those on a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. It provides the taste and protein of sausage without the gluten.

How Many Calories Are in Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Calorie counts will vary slightly between the different Simple Truth chicken sausage flavors. However, on average, they contain around 140 calories per 2 ounce raw link.

For comparison, a typical pork breakfast sausage link has 200-210 calories. So Simple Truth chicken sausages are a less caloric option.

Here are more nutrition facts:

• Total fat: 9g
• Saturated fat: 2.5g
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 280mg

Simple Truth chicken sausages are relatively low in total fat and saturated fat compared to pork sausages. They offer a good amount of protein as well.

When watching calories and fat, Simple Truth chicken sausage is an excellent alternative to beef and pork sausage that doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition.

What Is the Price of Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Pricing for Simple Truth chicken sausage may vary between Kroger locations and regions. However, it is competitively priced with other natural and organic chicken sausage brands.

On average, Simple Truth chicken sausages cost around $4.99 – $5.99 for a 12 ounce package. Fully cooked varieties are slightly more expensive at around $6.99 per package.

Compared to conventional mass-produced sausages, Simple Truth costs a little more due to its use of higher quality ingredients. However, it’s very reasonably priced for an organic, clean label product.

Kroger also regularly offers weekly promotions, digital coupons and loyalty card discounts that can reduce the prices even further. Signing up for digital coupons is a great way to save on Simple Truth chicken sausage.

Overall, Simple Truth provides a good value for shoppers seeking premium chicken sausage without nitrates or other additives. The price reflects the quality ingredients used.

Are There Reviews for Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Simple Truth chicken sausage earns very positive reviews online from various food blogs, parent sites and consumer review boards. It averages between 4-5 stars out of 5.

Many reviewers highlight the good flavor and texture of the chicken sausage. They like that it tastes juicy and meaty, not dry or bland like some chicken sausages. Italian style and apple maple flavors are two popular varieties.

Reviewers also praise Simple Truth chicken sausage for cooking up quick and easily. It performs well when pan fried, baked or grilled. Customers appreciate the convenience.

Negative feedback is very minimal. Some reviewers say the flavor could be a little bolder. A few mentioned packages leaking a bit. But overall experiences seem to be overwhelmingly positive.

Based on reviews, Simple Truth chicken sausage satisfies consumers looking for a nutritious, low-additive sausage option that doesn’t compromise on taste. For natural chicken sausage, it hits the mark.

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Organic?

While Simple Truth chicken sausage is made from natural, high quality ingredients, it is not certified organic. Simple Truth Organic is a separate product line that adheres to USDA organic standards.

However, Simple Truth chicken sausage could still be a good option for those who prefer to buy organic products when possible. While not certified organic, the chicken is:

• Free of antibiotics and added hormones
• Fed a vegetarian diet with no animal byproducts
• Raised humanely in a stress-free environment

Many of the other ingredients, like spices and produce, are sourced organically when feasible.

So while not certified organic, Simple Truth chicken sausage adheres to many of the same principles in terms of animal welfare and cleaner ingredients. But if certified organic is important to you, Simple Truth Organic chicken sausage would be the way to go.

How Long Does Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Last?

Simple Truth chicken sausage keeps well in the fridge or freezer:

• Refrigerated: Unopened packages last 5-7 days past the sell-by date. After opening, it’s best within 4-5 days.
• Frozen: For best quality, use frozen sausages within 2-3 months. Properly frozen, they can last up to 6 months in the freezer before deteriorating.

Ensure you observe safe food handling and storage temperatures. Keep refrigerated below 40°F and frozen at 0°F or below. This will help Simple Truth chicken sausage stay fresh and prevent spoilage.

For the fully cooked chicken sausage patties, use within 4 days of opening since they are perishable ready-to-eat items. These have shorter fridge life once opened.

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Non-GMO?

Yes, Simple Truth chicken sausage is verified non-GMO. This means it has been third-party tested to verify there are no genetically modified organisms or GMOs present.

The Simple Truth brand adheres to a non-GMO standard for all of its products. Consumers who wish to reduce GMOs in their diet can feel confident choosing Simple Truth chicken sausage.

From the chicken to the oils, seasonings and preservatives, shoppers don’t have to worry about genetically engineered ingredients with Simple Truth. It provides the taste of chicken sausage without the GMOs.

Can I Freeze Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Freezing is a great way to stock up on Simple Truth chicken sausage while saving money. The sausages freeze beautifully for future use.

Here are some tips for freezing Simple Truth chicken sausage:

• Leave sausages in original packaging or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents freezer burn.
• Flatten packages to remove air pockets and help sausages freeze solidly.
• Label packages with name and freeze-by date so you know what’s inside.
• Freeze immediately at 0°F or below. Do not allow sausages to sit at room temp before freezing.
• Once frozen solid, packages can be stacked or stored flat in freezer bags.
• Avoid frequent temperature fluctuations. Allow frozen sausages to thaw overnight in fridge before using.

Following these steps, Simple Truth chicken sausage will freeze well for 2-3 months. It thaws out juicy and flavorful, ready to cook and enjoy.

Does Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Contain Preservatives?

Simple Truth chicken sausages are free from artificial chemical preservatives like nitrites, BHA, BHT, etc. You won’t find ambiguous ingredients like “natural flavors” or “spices” either.

They do use some natural preservatives to help extend shelf life, such as:

• Lemon juice
• Cherry powder
• Celery juice powder
• Rosemary extract
• Citric acid

These are plant-based preservatives that are non-toxic and safe to consume. Simple Truth avoids any questionable additives, so you can have confidence in the ingredients.

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Available in Bulk?

Unfortunately Simple Truth chicken sausage does not come in bulk or family pack sizes. The sausages are only sold in 12 ounce individual packages at Kroger stores.

Each package contains 4-5 raw links on average, depending on the flavor. Fully cooked Simple Truth chicken sausage patties come 2 per package.

If you want to buy in bulk quantities, here are a couple options:

• Buy multiple 12oz packages at once. This allows you to stock up and save repeated trips to the store.
• Check with the meat department counter to see if they will offer a special bulk order of Simple Truth chicken sausage. Some locations may accommodate this.
• Consider splitting a case order with friends or family. Though likely still in individual 12oz packs.

So while not sold in mega-packs, you can still purchase multiples to mimic a bulk buy. Getting the 12oz packages on sale and freezing extras is your best bet to get volume discounts.

How to Store Simple Truth Chicken Sausage

To maintain freshness and quality, be sure to store Simple Truth chicken sausage properly:

• Refrigerated: Keep raw sausages in original packaging. Place on a lower shelf towards the back, where temps are coldest. Use within 4-5 days of opening.
• Frozen: Leave frozen sausages in original packaging. Store flat in freezer with minimal air gaps and avoid temperature fluctuations. Use within 2-3 months for best flavor.
• Cooked: Leftover cooked sausage can be stored covered in fridge 3-4 days. Reheat fully to 165°F before eating.

Storing at proper temperatures in air-tight packaging helps retain moisture and prevent freezer burn or spoilage. Follow any storage instructions on package.

With proper storage, Simple Truth chicken sausage will retain its quality and safety throughout shelf life. This prevents any waste of this premium product.

Are There Any Promotions for Simple Truth Chicken Sausage?

Kroger does offer promotions on Simple Truth products that can help you save:

• Weekly digital coupons: Check your Kroger account for new weekly digital coupons. Simple Truth chicken sausage often has $1 or $2 off coupons available.
• Friday Freebie: Download the Friday Freebie app for a free Simple Truth or Simple Truth Organic item each week. Past freebies have included chicken sausage.
• 10 for 10: Kroger runs frequent 10 for 10 sales where you buy 10 participating items, mix and match, for just $10 total. Simple Truth products like chicken sausage are usually included.
• Loyalty card discounts: Sign up for a Kroger Plus card to get automatic sale prices on Simple Truth items each week.
• Kroger app: Browse app-only offers for discounts on Simple Truth chicken sausage.

Combining digital coupons, sales, and loyalty perks is the best way maximize savings on Simple Truth chicken sausage. Check pricing online or in stores for current deals.

Is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Low Sodium?

While not specifically marketed as a low sodium product, Simple Truth chicken sausage is moderately low in sodium compared to many other sausages.

On average, Simple Truth chicken sausages contain around 280 milligrams sodium per 2 link serving. Some flavors are a bit lower or higher.

In comparison, a typical pork breakfast sausage averages 450-650mg per serving. So Simple Truth has almost half the sodium content.

The lower sodium counts come from the use of unprocessed meats, salt-free spices, and the avoidance of chemical preservatives that are high in sodium.

For those looking to watch their salt intake, Simple Truth chicken sausage can be part of a well-balanced, lower sodium diet when consumed in moderation. The sodium levels are relatively modest.

How is Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Packaged?

Simple Truth chicken sausages come packaged two different ways:

Raw sausages come wrapped together in a clear plastic package that is overwrapped with a label. The label clearly identifies the flavor and provides important information like ingredients, nutrition facts, safe handling instructions, etc.

Fully cooked sausages are packaged singly in plastic trays that are sealed with plastic film. They are also labeled with clear information about that variety.

The Simple Truth logo and branding is prominently displayed on all packaging so it’s easily identifiable. Packages are designed for maximum visibility of the product inside.

The packaging allows consumers to inspect the sausages easily before purchase. It also safely contains each variety and protects the integrity and quality of the product inside.

Can I Return Simple Truth Chicken Sausage if Unsatisfied?

One great thing about purchasing Simple Truth chicken sausage from Kroger stores is that you can return or exchange it if unsatisfied.

Kroger offers a hassle-free money-back guarantee on its Simple Truth line. If you are not happy with the taste, texture or quality of Simple Truth chicken sausage, Kroger will refund your money when you return it.

You will need to provide your receipt showing proof of purchase at a Kroger owned store. Make any returns promptly so they can also review product quality.

Just swing by customer service desk to return unused Simple Truth chicken sausage for a full refund. This guarantee makes it easy to try new Simple Truth items risk-free.

How to Find Simple Truth Chicken Sausage Discount Codes

Here are some tips for finding deals and discounts on Simple Truth chicken sausage:

• Check Kroger.com and grocery delivery apps for available digital coupons to load to your loyalty card. These often offer $1-2 off Simple Truth products.
• Browse the weekly ad digitally at Kroger.com or use the mobile app to find what’s on sale each week and preview your discounts.
• Look for promotions like Friday Freebie, 10 for 10 sales, or Mix & Match sales that include Simple Truth chicken sausage.
• Consider trying a Kroger delivery or pickup order online to see if any dollar-off delivery codes are available for first-time customers.
• Follow @SimpleTruth on social media for news of giveaways, contests, or special offers.
• Ask at customer service about any coupons, vouchers, or mailers with Simple Truth discounts.

Checking for digital coupons and advance sales is the single best way to save on each package of Simple Truth chicken sausage you buy. Combined with loyalty perks, you can score this premium sausage for less.

The Bottom Line on Simple Truth Chicken Sausage

With clean ingredients, ethical animal sourcing and positive customer reviews, Simple Truth has delivered a quality gluten-free chicken sausage option that appeals to health-minded shoppers.

While not certified organic, their sausages still adhere to many of the same standards and avoid antibiotics, nitrates/nitrites, and GMOs. All at an affordable price point.

Kroger’s guarantees, promotions and discounts add to the value proposition. So for those looking for a natural chicken sausage that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor, Simple Truth checks all the boxes. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who takes ingredient labels seriously.