Inexpensive Homemade Dog Food featuring Chicken Thighs and Carrots

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Your pet should have only the best, but high-end dog food can really make your wallet cry.

Do you ever wonder what is really inside the kibble bag, or feel guilty for the ingredients that you can’t even pronounce?

In fact, a lot of commercial foods are full of fillers and artificial things that are not good for your pet, and going for the brands of the specialty often means that you have to cut your own budget.

However, what if it were possible to provide nutritious, tasty meals to your dog for less than the cost of a premium dog food and without compromising on health?

That is exactly what this recipe is for you.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features budget-friendly chicken thighs and carrots, making it a nutritious and economical choice.
• It’s packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and fiber to support your dog’s overall health and energy levels.
• Perfect for pet parents looking for a simple, cost-effective way to feed their dogs real food.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8-10 servings (for a medium-sized dog)

Ingredients List

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lbs): $7.00 – $9.00
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped: $1.00 – $1.50
• 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen: $1.50 – $2.00
• 1 cup white rice, uncooked: $0.50 – $0.75
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth: $0.20 – $0.50
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.30 – $0.50
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for fresh breath): $0.10 – $0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $10.60 – $14.45

Suitable substitutions: You can swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or ground turkey. Sweet potatoes can replace carrots for a different nutrient profile. Frozen peas or spinach are great alternatives to green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are small enough for your dog to chew easily.
• Wash and peel the carrots, then chop them into small, manageable pieces.
• If using fresh green beans, trim the ends and chop them too.
• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add the chopped carrots, green beans, and uncooked white rice to the pot. Stir everything together well.
• Pour in the water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
• Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, and the vegetables are soft.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely before serving.
• Stir in the dried parsley, if you’re using it, for an extra boost of freshness.

Feeding Guidelines

• Start with small portions and watch how your dog reacts. Every dog is different, so adjust as needed.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals. A Chihuahua might need less, a Jack Russell more.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals. Think a Beagle or a smaller Border Collie.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Provide 3 to 4.5 cups per day, also divided. A Golden Retriever or German Shepherd will need more.
• Highly active dogs or puppies often need more calories, while senior dogs or less active breeds may need less.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle growth, repair, and overall energy. They also provide essential amino acids.
• Carrots are packed with Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function, and fiber which aids in healthy digestion.
• Green beans offer a good source of vitamins C and K, manganese, and dietary fiber, promoting a healthy gut and strong bones.
• White rice is easily digestible and provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy. It’s often recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Olive oil contributes healthy fats, supporting skin and coat health, and also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Dried parsley, though optional, can help with bad breath and provides some antioxidants.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the homemade dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion out the cooled food into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To thaw, simply move a portion from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before, or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Always make sure the food is cooled to a safe, comfortable temperature before serving.
• You can serve this meal warm, at room temperature, or even mix it with a little bit of your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I make sure my dog gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals?

This recipe provides a good base of nutrients, but for complete and balanced nutrition long-term, consider adding a vet-approved multivitamin or mineral supplement formulated for dogs.

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Is this recipe suitable?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe—chicken, rice, carrots, and green beans—are generally well-tolerated and easy on the digestive system. However, always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.

Can I cook a large batch and freeze it?

Absolutely! Cooking a large batch and freezing individual portions is a great time-saver. Just thaw and reheat as needed. This helps you keep a steady supply of fresh, homemade food on hand.

What if my dog doesn’t like one of the vegetables?

Don’t worry if your dog is picky. You can easily substitute vegetables like peas, spinach, or pumpkin for carrots or green beans. Just ensure any vegetable you use is safe for dogs and cooked until soft.

Wrapping Up

There you have it—an easy, affordable way to nourish your dog with real food you can trust.

Imagine the wagging tail and happy licks!

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