Homemade Dog Food Recipe Under $2 Per Serving With Chicken & Pasta

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.

It’s tough seeing your dog deal with stomach issues or itchy skin because of store-bought food. You start to question what’s actually inside those bags and if any of it’s really good for them.

The thing is, you don’t have to spend a fortune or settle for questionable ingredients to feed your dog well. You can whip up meals at home that are healthy, tasty, and easy on your wallet.

Try this simple and affordable homemade dog food recipe. Your dog will love it, and you’ll feel good knowing exactly what’s in their bowl.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features lean chicken and pasta, perfect for active dogs or those needing a gentle diet.
• It’s packed with protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8-10 servings (for a medium-sized dog)

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast: $7.50 (Substitution: Ground turkey or lean beef)
• 2 cups whole wheat pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni or rotini): $1.00
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped: $0.50
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped: $1.00
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed: $0.75
• 1/4 cup bone broth (low sodium, plain): $0.50
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.25
• 1 teaspoon dog-safe multivitamin/mineral supplement (optional, but recommended for long-term feeding): $0.50 (cost per serving for supplement)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.00 for the entire batch (approx. $1.20 – $1.50 per serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the chicken: Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until fully browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside.
• Prepare the pasta: Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package directions. Drain thoroughly.
• Cook the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, steam or lightly boil the chopped carrots and green beans until tender-crisp. You can also add them to the pasta water for the last few minutes of cooking. Drain well.
• Combine ingredients: In a large bowl or back in the pan, combine the cooked chicken, pasta, carrots, green beans, and mashed sweet potato.
• Add liquids and supplements: Pour in the bone broth and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. If using, stir in the dog-safe multivitamin/mineral supplement.
• Mix well: Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Cool: Let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (10-20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals. For example, a Chihuahua might need 1/2 cup, a Jack Russell 1 cup.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals. Think a Beagle needing 1.5 cups, a Border Collie needing 2.5 cups.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4 cups per day, divided into two meals. A Golden Retriever might need 3.5 cups, a German Shepherd 4 cups.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs: May require more frequent, smaller meals and higher caloric intake. Talk to your vet about their specific needs.
• Activity levels: More active dogs will need more food, while less active dogs might need a bit less to maintain a healthy weight.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health concerns or is on medication. They can help tailor portions to your dog’s exact needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken: A lean protein source essential for muscle growth and repair. It provides amino acids, which are building blocks for a healthy body.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, helping with digestion.
• Carrots: Packed with Vitamin A (beta-carotene) for good vision and immune support. They also offer fiber.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in vitamins K and C, and fiber. They also have manganese.
• Sweet Potato: An excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. It’s good for gut health.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy fats, including Omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health. It also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Bone Broth: Adds flavor, hydration, and can support joint health and digestion.
• Dog-Safe Multivitamin/Mineral Supplement: Ensures a complete and balanced diet, providing essential vitamins (A, D, E, K, B-complex, Choline) and minerals (Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Chlorine, Iron, Copper, Zinc, Manganese, Selenium, Iodine) that might be lacking in homemade meals.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion out the food into individual servings or freezer-safe bags/containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed in the microwave (check for hot spots before serving).
• Serving ideas: Serve this recipe as a complete meal, or mix a portion with your dog’s regular kibble for added flavor and nutrients.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, absolutely. Dog-safe vegetables like peas, spinach, broccoli florets, or pumpkin are great choices. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, which are toxic to dogs.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

This recipe provides good nutrients, but puppies have higher energy and calcium needs. While safe, it’s best to consult your vet to ensure it meets all their specific growth requirements, or use a supplement formulated for puppies.

My dog is allergic to chicken. What can I use instead?

You can easily substitute chicken with ground turkey, lean ground beef, or even cooked salmon. Just make sure the meat is cooked thoroughly and plain.

How can I make sure this is a balanced diet long-term?

For long-term feeding, it’s important to include a veterinarian-approved canine multivitamin and mineral supplement. This ensures your dog gets all the necessary micronutrients that might not be perfectly balanced in a single homemade recipe. Your vet can recommend a good quality one.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. This chicken and pasta recipe is a simple way to give them a healthy, delicious meal they’ll love. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!