By Pet Wellness Lab | Updated: July 2025
If you’ve ever looked at your dog’s kibble and thought, “There’s got to be a better way,” you’re right.
Homemade dog food isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle upgrade for your furry friend. When made right, it can be healthier, tastier, and more tailored to your pup’s needs than most store-bought options.
That’s why we’ve created 7 balanced, vet-considered recipes with chicken and veggies that are easy to make, packed with nutrients, and designed for all dog breeds and sizes.
Let’s dive in and turn your kitchen into your dog’s favorite restaurant!
🥇 Why Chicken and Veggies?
- Lean protein: Chicken is rich in essential amino acids to support muscle growth and immune health.
- Digestible nutrients: Cooked veggies like carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes are easy on your dog’s digestive system.
- Customizable: Recipes can be tweaked for picky eaters, allergies, or sensitive stomachs.
📌 Note: Always consult your vet before switching to a homemade diet.
1. Classic Chicken, Rice & Carrot Bowl
💡 Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken (skinless, boneless)
- ½ cup white or brown rice (cooked)
- ¼ cup steamed carrots, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a clean bowl.
- Let cool to room temperature.
- Serve fresh or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
✅ Pro Tip: Use bone broth instead of water when cooking rice for added nutrients and flavor.
2. Power Bowl with Chicken, Spinach & Sweet Potato
💪 For dogs that need an energy boost
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup mashed sweet potato
- ¼ cup steamed spinach, chopped
Instructions:
Layer ingredients in a bowl. Mix lightly and serve. Spinach adds fiber and iron—great for active pups!
🧠 Did You Know? Sweet potatoes help regulate blood sugar and are rich in beta-carotene.
3. Slow Cooker Chicken & Veggie Stew
⏲️ Set it and forget it!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 1 cup chopped broccoli
- ½ cup diced carrots
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours. Cool before serving.
🌿 Upgrade Tip: Add a pinch of turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits (max ¼ tsp).
4. Zucchini & Chicken Skillet Stir-Fry
🍳 Quick & simple one-pan meal
Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced chicken
- ½ cup chopped zucchini
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
Sauté zucchini in oil for 2 minutes. Add chicken, cook for another 3 minutes. Cool before serving.
⚠️ Avoid seasoning—no salt, onion, garlic, or spices.
5. Chicken, Kale & Apple Crunch Mix
🍏 A fiber-packed meal with a sweet twist
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded chicken
- ½ cup steamed kale
- ¼ cup diced apple (no seeds or skin)
Instructions:
Mix together and serve. The apple adds a crunch dogs love while kale brings antioxidants.
🚫 Skip grapes or raisins—they’re toxic to dogs.
6. Chicken & Green Pea Quinoa Casserole
🍽️ Perfect for picky eaters
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken
- ½ cup cooked green peas
- ¼ cup cooked quinoa
Instructions:
Mix ingredients together, heat lightly if stored in fridge, and serve.
🥄 Why Quinoa? It’s gluten-free and contains all 9 essential amino acids.
7. Chicken Liver & Pumpkin Mash
🎯 The ultimate immune booster
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chopped, cooked chicken liver
- ½ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup steamed carrots
Instructions:
Mash all ingredients until creamy. Cool and serve.
🧠 Liver is rich in vitamins A, B, and iron—ideal in small portions once or twice a week.
⚖️ Portion Guidelines
| Dog Size | Serving Size (per meal) |
|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | ¼ – ½ cup |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | ¾ – 1 cup |
| Large (50+ lbs) | 1.5 – 2 cups |
✅ Adjust based on activity level, age, and your vet’s advice.
🔄 Ingredient Swaps (In Case You’re Out)
| Ingredient | Healthy Substitution |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Turkey, lean beef, or salmon |
| Carrots | Green beans, pumpkin, zucchini |
| Rice | Quinoa, oatmeal, or barley |
| Kale/Spinach | Romaine lettuce, broccoli leaves |
| Sweet Potato | Butternut squash or pumpkin |
🧊 Storage & Safety Tips
- ❄️ Freeze portions for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
- 🧊 Fridge: Use within 3–4 days.
- 🐶 No-no’s: Never add onions, garlic, salt, or spices.
🐕🦺 FAQs – Homemade Dog Food 101
Q1: Can I serve these recipes daily?
Yes, with vet approval. Balance over the week is key.
Q2: Can I add supplements?
Yes—consider omega-3s, calcium (ground eggshell), or a dog multivitamin.
Q3: My dog has allergies. What now?
Use hypoallergenic proteins like duck or venison. Avoid dairy, wheat, or chicken if they’re triggers.
Q4: Is raw chicken okay?
Generally no. Cooked chicken is safer and easier to digest unless under a vet-guided raw food plan.
Final Thoughts
Feeding your dog homemade meals doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These 7 chicken and veggie recipes are nutrient-dense, delicious, and dog-approved. Whether you’re meal prepping or trying new flavors, these meals are a massive step up from the standard kibble routine.
✨ Give your pup what they truly deserve—real food made with love.