Chicken Treat Recipe of the Week: Homemade Oatmeal & Herb Treats
Treat your chickens to a nutritious and delicious snack with this easy-to-make oatmeal and herb treat recipe. Packed with healthy ingredients, these treats will provide your flock with extra vitamins and minerals while keeping them entertained.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup mixed dried herbs (such as parsley, oregano, and basil)
- 1/4 cup flaxseeds
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds (unsalted)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional, for added probiotics)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, whole wheat flour, cornmeal, dried herbs, flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, and raisins or dried cranberries (if using).
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the plain yogurt (if using) and melted coconut oil. Add the water and stir to combine.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be thick but pliable. If it’s too dry, add a little more water; if it’s too wet, add a bit more flour.
- Shape the Treats:
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or flatten them into small patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the treats are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and allow the treats to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Serve:
- Once cooled, offer the treats to your chickens. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips:
- Portion Control: Feed treats in moderation to ensure your chickens maintain a balanced diet.
- Substitutions: Feel free to substitute the herbs and seeds with other chicken-safe ingredients you have on hand.
- Special Additions: You can add a small amount of crushed eggshells for extra calcium.
These homemade oatmeal and herb treats are a nutritious and tasty way to show your chickens some extra love. Enjoy watching your flock delight in this wholesome snack!
