2-Ingredient Dog Treat Recipe: Chicken & Spinach Patties

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.

You​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ are in the pet aisle wondering what kind of substance is “propylene glycol” just by looking at the back of a treat bag. Is it something your best friend should eat?

This conundrum is really tiring, isn’t it? The mental gymnastics of trying to find a simple, honest snack amid a sea of over-processed, chemical-laden options is frustrating to say the least.

Well, I say make your own homemade dog treats! And I’ve got a simple 2 ingredient recipe to share with you today.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade chicken and spinach dog treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of active prep and 20-25 minutes to cook.
• It’s packed with lean protein and essential vitamins.
• These treats are perfect for training, snacks, or a little healthy reward.
• They’re especially great for dogs with food sensitivities or those on a limited ingredient diet.
• Serving Size: Makes about 20-25 small patties.

Ingredients List

• Ground Chicken (90% lean): 1 pound (~$4.50 – $6.00)
• Fresh Spinach: 1 cup, finely chopped (~$2.00 – $3.00)
• Optional: A tiny bit of water if the mixture is too dry (free)

Total Estimated Cost: ~$6.50 – $9.00

Substitutions: You can use ground turkey instead of chicken if your dog prefers it or has a chicken allergy. Ground beef (lean) is another good option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken and finely chopped spinach.
• Use your hands to really mix everything together well. You want the spinach to be evenly distributed throughout the chicken.
• If the mixture feels a bit too dry and hard to form, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it’s more pliable.
• Now, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into little balls, then flatten them slightly into small patty shapes. Make them about 1 inch in diameter and about 1/4 inch thick. This size is great for treats.
• Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each one.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the patties are firm. Make sure there’s no pink left inside.
• Let the treats cool completely on a wire rack before serving to your dog. They will firm up more as they cool.

Feeding Guidelines

• These treats are meant as a supplement to your dog’s regular diet, not a complete meal.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 treats per day.
• Adjust the amount based on your dog’s activity level and overall caloric intake. Very active dogs might get a bit more, while less active dogs or those trying to lose weight should get fewer.
• Always check with your vet for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or specific dietary needs.
• Puppies can have these treats in moderation, but ensure they are soft enough for their developing teeth.
• For senior dogs, these soft patties are easy to chew and digest.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Chicken: This is a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and overall energy. It provides amino acids crucial for your dog’s health.
• Spinach: A superfood for dogs! Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. It supports vision, immune function, and bone health.
• Low in Carbs: With just two main ingredients, these treats are naturally low in carbohydrates, making them a great option for dogs on a lower-carb diet or those needing to manage weight.
• High in Fiber: The spinach contributes dietary fiber, which aids in healthy digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements.
• Essential Fatty Acids: Chicken provides some healthy fats, including essential fatty acids necessary for skin and coat health, and also for brain function.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, you can let them thaw in the fridge overnight or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Serve these treats warm, at room temperature, or even crumbled on top of your dog’s regular kibble for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
• Always ensure the treats are fully cooled before giving them to your dog to avoid burns.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, totally! You can add other dog-safe veggies like finely grated carrots, peas, or green beans. Just keep the total veggie amount to about 1 cup.

My dog won’t eat spinach. What can I do?

Try chopping it very, very finely or even pureeing it before mixing. The chicken flavor often masks the spinach. If not, you can swap it for another dog-safe green like kale or omit it if necessary, but you’ll lose some of the benefits.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yep! Air fryers work great for these. Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are cooked through and browned. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, they are generally safe for puppies. Just make sure the patties are small and soft enough for them to chew easily. Start with very small pieces.

Wrapping Up

Making these chicken and spinach treats for your dog is super simple and shows them how much you care. They’ll love the taste, and you’ll feel good knowing they’re getting healthy ingredients.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!