By David | Updated: January 27, 2025
Looking for a healthy, budget-friendly, and pet-approved treat that works for both your cat and dog? This Diced Chicken Thigh & Broccoli Bite is a delicious homemade recipe packed with digestible protein, essential vitamins, and gut-friendly fiber. It’s easy to make, vet-safe, and free from artificial additives—perfect as a snack, treat, or meal booster.
🔍 Quick Overview
- Main Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Veggie Boost: Lightly steamed broccoli florets
- Ready in: Under 20 minutes
- Best for: Adult cats, dogs, and even growing puppies/kittens (with proper portioning)
- Suitable for: Sensitive stomachs, picky eaters, and rotation diets
🥩 Why This Recipe Works
Chicken thighs are one of the most nutritious and flavorful proteins you can offer your pet. Unlike chicken breast, thighs contain a moderate amount of healthy fat—ideal for energy and coat health—while still being easy to digest.
Pair that with broccoli—a pet-safe veggie rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber—and you’ve got a simple, whole-food recipe that supports:
- Immune health
- Digestive wellness
- Muscle and tissue repair
- Hydration (thanks to moisture-rich prep)
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thigh | 1 medium (boneless, skinless) | Do not use seasoned or smoked versions |
| Broccoli florets | ¼ cup (steamed) | Fresh or frozen (no salt, no butter) |
| Water or chicken broth | 1–2 tbsp | Low-sodium or homemade, optional for moisture |
🔁 Optional Add-Ins:
A spoonful of mashed sweet potato, a few drops of salmon oil, or a pinch of finely chopped parsley (dog-safe only).
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken Thigh
Boil the chicken thigh in plain water for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F/74°C). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Broccoli
Steam or boil the broccoli florets until soft but not mushy (3–5 minutes). Let cool. Avoid seasoning or oils.
3. Dice the Chicken
Once cooled, dice the chicken into very small, bite-sized pieces. Cats prefer tiny chunks; dogs can handle slightly larger ones.
4. Chop the Broccoli
Finely chop the cooled broccoli. Smaller bits are easier for cats and small dogs to chew and digest.
5. Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the diced chicken and broccoli. Add broth or water to reach a soft, moist consistency. Mix well until evenly combined.
6. Cool & Serve
Allow the mix to cool completely to room temperature before serving.
🍽️ Portion Guide (Per Pet Size)
| Pet Size | Recommended Portion |
|---|---|
| Cat (8–12 lbs) | 2–3 tablespoons |
| Small Dog (10–20 lbs) | ¼ to ½ cup |
| Medium Dog (20–40 lbs) | ½ to 1 cup |
| Large Dog (40+ lbs) | 1 to 1½ cups |
⚠️ This is not a complete diet—best served as a treat or meal topper 1–2x per week.
🧮 Approximate Nutrition (Per ¼ Cup)
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~90 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Fat | ~4g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Moisture | High (from cooking) |
Values may vary depending on cut and cooking method.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Using raw broccoli | Hard to digest and can cause gas |
| Keeping chicken skin on | Too much fat—can upset stomach |
| Adding seasoning or oil | Garlic, onion, salt, and spices are toxic |
| Skipping cooling step | Hot food can burn your pet’s mouth |
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze in silicone molds or small containers for up to 1 month
- To Serve from Frozen: Thaw overnight in fridge, reheat gently, and cool before serving
✅ Pro Tip: Pre-portion into weekly servings for less hassle!
🔄 Variations to Try
| Swap/Add | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| Turkey thigh | Similar protein profile, slightly leaner |
| Mashed sweet potato | Adds fiber + vitamin A |
| Green beans | Lower in sugar, easy to digest |
| Zucchini (steamed) | Great for sensitive tummies |
🧑⚕️ Vet Tips & Safety Disclaimer
This recipe is not a complete and balanced meal on its own. While it’s an excellent treat, topper, or supplemental food, it lacks taurine (essential for cats), calcium (for bones), and omega-3s unless fortified.
🐾 Always consult your veterinarian before switching or adding new homemade food—especially for pets with health issues, special needs, or puppies/kittens still growing.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes—just be sure it’s unsalted and steam it until soft before chopping.
Q: Can I feed this to kittens or puppies?
Yes, but dice ingredients extra fine and keep portions small.
Q: Can this replace regular dog or cat food?
No. This is a treat or addition to a balanced diet—not a standalone meal.
Q: How often can I serve it?
Once or twice per week is ideal. Overfeeding can cause imbalance in nutrition.
📌 Final Thoughts
Diced Chicken Thigh & Broccoli Bite is an easy, wholesome treat that pets love and pet parents trust. With simple ingredients, fast prep time, and loads of nutrition, it’s the perfect way to pamper your furry friend without compromising on health.
Whether you’re rewarding good behavior, topping a meal, or just looking to offer something extra-nourishing—this recipe delivers every time.
🐶🐱 Give it a try, and let the tail-wagging (or purring) begin!