Are you looking for a leaner alternative to traditional ground beef or pork? Look no further than ground chicken! With its mild flavor and versatility, ground chicken can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from tacos and wraps to meatballs and burgers. And with its lower fat content compared to other ground meats, it’s a great option for those looking to make healthier meal choices.
In this article, we’ll share 20 flavorful ground chicken recipes that are deliciously easy to make. From spicy tacos to cheesy quesadillas, and from stir-fries to stuffed peppers, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal. So grab some ground chicken and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines spicy ground chicken, crispy tortillas, and a creamy avocado topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add onion, jalapeño, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent and mixture is heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto warmed tortillas.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Serve on top of tacos or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Peanut sauce (see below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, soy sauce, and salt. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
2. Form into small patties and cook in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken patty on a lettuce leaf, drizzle with peanut sauce, and top with additional lettuce if desired.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Ground Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these savory and flavorful garlic parmesan ground chicken meatballs, perfect for snacking or as a main course. Made with wholesome ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Ground Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the convenience of ground chicken, making it a quick and easy meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
4. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger; stir to combine.
5. Add the scallions and bell peppers; stir-fry for 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
5. Stir in chopped spinach.
6. Stuff each pepper with the ground chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Ground Chicken Quesadillas with Salsa
A flavorful twist on classic quesadillas, these cheesy ground chicken wraps are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 4 large tortillas
– Salsa, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and olive oil. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Place a tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Spoon the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to enclose.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake quesadillas in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
9. Serve warm with salsa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Mushroom Bolognese
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty and flavorful Ground Chicken and Mushroom Bolognese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This twist on the classic Italian dish combines the richness of ground chicken with the earthy flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, pappardelle)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve the bolognese over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Ground Chicken with Jasmine Rice
This aromatic dish combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a hearty meal. Juicy ground chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and creamy coconut milk come together to create a delightful fusion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups mixed Thai basil leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Jasmine rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the mixture is translucent.
4. Stir in Thai basil leaves, coconut milk, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve the chicken mixture over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of ground chicken with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. While the chicken is cooking, toss the sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Once the chicken is done, add it to the roasted sweet potato mixture and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful combination of ground chicken and sweet caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook burgers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
6. Assemble burgers with caramelized onions and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Zucchini Skillet
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with protein, veggies, and whole grain goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the sliced zucchinis, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Stir in whole wheat breadcrumbs (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken Chili with Black Beans
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of chili with the rich flavor of ground chicken and black beans, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground chicken in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and black beans to the pot. Stir in the water.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the crunch of broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need a meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground Chicken Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional sausage and peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground chicken with sweet bell peppers and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as sriracha)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into sausage shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While sausages are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
7. Serve sausages with peppers and add hot sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Cabbage Dumplings
This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground chicken and cabbage with a comforting dumpling dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cabbage, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until just combined.
2. Add the flour and mix until a dough forms. If too sticky, add a little water.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the dumpling mixture by spoonfuls into the boiling water.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface. Drain and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken Picadillo with Olives and Raisins
This Mexican-inspired dish is a hearty, flavorful twist on traditional picadillo. The addition of salty olives and sweet raisins adds depth and complexity to this comforting ground chicken mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup golden raisins
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until the chicken is fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the olives and raisins; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal by filling them with ground chicken, quinoa, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the ground chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-quinoa mixture, filling them as full as possible.
6. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Corn Enchiladas
This recipe combines the flavors of ground chicken, sweet corn, and creamy cheese wrapped in tortillas and baked to perfection. A delicious twist on traditional enchiladas!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Optional: diced tomatoes, cilantro, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add corn kernels, flour, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. To assemble enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat, spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center, and sprinkle with cheese. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients, topping each rolled tortilla with cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Chicken and Kale Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the flavors of ground chicken, kale, and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Eggplant Moussaka
A twist on the classic Greek dish, this Ground Chicken and Eggplant Moussaka combines the richness of chicken with the tender flavor of eggplant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate skillet, sauté the eggplant slices in olive oil until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a baking dish, create layers of cooked eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, finishing with a layer of chicken on top.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken and bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of ground chicken with these 20 deliciously easy recipes! From spicy tacos to savory stir-fries, and from comfort food casseroles to international-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try making garlic parmesan meatballs, cheesy quesadillas, or Thai basil-infused jasmine rice. You’ll also find classic burgers, chili, and stuffed peppers, as well as unique twists like ground chicken sausage with peppers and cabbage dumplings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these flavorful recipes will become new favorites.