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Homemade Chicken Lunch Meat


  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1.5 lbs (approx. 12 servings)

Description

Craft incredibly fresh and flavorful chicken lunch meat right in your kitchen with this easy and economical recipe. Say goodbye to store-bought and hello to customizable, healthy slices!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch or tapioca starch
  • Optional: dash of celery salt, pinch of cayenne pepper

Instructions

  • Step 1: Prep Chicken & Season. Place chicken cubes into a food processor. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and sea salt. Pulse a few times to distribute seasonings.
  • Step 2: Grind & Bind. Add egg white and cornstarch to the food processor. Process until the mixture forms a very fine, smooth, and sticky paste, scraping down sides as needed.
  • Step 3: Form the Loaf. Transfer the mixture to a large piece of plastic wrap. Firmly shape the mixture into a tight 2-3 inch diameter log or loaf. Wrap very tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, twisting ends securely.
  • Step 4: Cook & Chill. Cook via oven (325°F/160°C in a water bath for 45-60 min) or steam (40-55 min) until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C). Immediately plunge the wrapped loaf into an ice bath for 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate, still wrapped, for at least 4-6 hours or overnight before slicing.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins