Homemade Chicken Jerky For Dogs
If your pup loves a chewy, meaty snack, this homemade chicken jerky dog treat recipe is going to be their new favorite! Made with just two skinless, boneless chicken breasts, it’s a wholesome and natural treat you can feel good about sharing with your dog. Unlike store-bought jerky that often contains preservatives, sodium, or additives, this DIY version keeps it simple and healthy.
Why Your Dog Will Love Homemade Chicken Jerky
Dogs go crazy for the rich aroma and chewy texture of jerky. It’s packed with lean protein, which helps support strong muscles and gives them the energy they need for playtime and walks. Plus, you’re in control of the ingredients-just real chicken and nothing else!
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken breast is lean, high in protein, and low in fat-making it a perfect guilt-free snack. It also provides essential amino acids to keep your dog strong and healthy.
Ingredients
All you need is skinless and boneless chicken breasts, with a splash of olive oil to grease the cooking rackes.
How To Make Chicken Jerky For Dogs
Freeze the chicken breasts for about one hour to make this easier to thinly slice.
Thinly slice the frozen chicken breasts with a sharp knife.
Oil a cooking rack and place the chicken breast slices on it.
Or place the chicken strips in an air fryer.
Cook until firm and crispy.
Watch How It’s Made
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Cutting the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts thinly and evenly against the grain for chewier pieces or with the grain for a more tender bite.
- Flavor boosts: While plain is best for sensitive tummies, you can add a sprinkle of turmeric, parsley, or even a dash of cinnamon for extra benefits.
- For small dogs: Cut into thinner, shorter strips for easier chewing.
- For other jerky recipes for dogs, try our salmon jerky dog treats or beef liver jerky for dogs.
Storage Tips
Once cooled, store the chicken jerky in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze the strips for up to 3 months and thaw as needed.
More Chicken Breast Dog Treats
If your dog is a fan of chicken, try these other chicken breast dog treats:
Mango Chicken Breast Dog Treats
Homemade Chicken Jerky for Dogs
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Ingredients
- 2 large boneless and skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Freeze the chicken breasts for 1 to 2 hours so it's easier to slice.
Oven Method
- Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Slice chicken breasts into thin, even strips (cut against the grain for chewier pieces or with the grain for softer ones).
- Place strips on a lightly oiled baking rack placed on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until fully dried and slightly crisp.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Air Fryer Method
- Set air fryer to 180°F (82°C).
- Arrange strips in a single layer in the basket or a lightly oiled rack for the basket.
- Air fry for 2–3 hours, checking occasionally until dried and chewy.
- Cool completely before serving.
Video
Notes
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- For long-term storage, freeze up to 3 months and thaw before serving.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.
How big should I cut the strips
They need to be as thinly sliced as you can for extra crispiness but I found some thicker strips cooked well. My batches always end up with a variety of thickness. It doesn’t have to be too precise.
Can these go into a dehydrator? If so, what temperature & for how long?
Dehydrate at 165°F–167°F (or the highest setting for your dehydrator) for 8–10 hours.