Are you a fan of ground chicken? Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, there’s no denying the versatility and flavor that ground chicken brings to the table. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and creative recipes that showcase the best of ground chicken in all its forms.
From spicy tacos and Asian-inspired wraps to hearty casseroles and comforting hash browns, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and techniques that will have you whipping up ground chicken dishes like a pro.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this culinary adventure and discover the incredible world of ground chicken!
Asian-inspired ground chicken lettuce wraps
Experience the flavors of Asia with this simple and delicious recipe that combines spicy ground chicken, crunchy vegetables, and fresh lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in chopped scallions and shredded carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spooning the chicken mixture onto a lettuce leaf.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy ground chicken tacos with avocado crema
Get ready to spice up your taco game! This recipe combines juicy ground chicken, bold spices, and creamy avocado crema for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with cooked chicken and avocado crema.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Mash the avocados in a bowl. Mix in the sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and vegetable stir-fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic stir-fry, featuring ground chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced bell pepper and frozen mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy ground chicken stuffed bell peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground chicken with cheese, rice, and spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, cheese, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground chicken meatballs in marinara sauce
A twist on traditional beef meatballs, these chicken meatballs are packed with flavor and simmered in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and add them to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 38-42 minutes
Thai basil ground chicken with jasmine rice
This flavorful dish combines the aromas of Thai basil and jasmine rice with the savory taste of ground chicken, making it a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors. A simple and quick recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and chopped Thai basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve the ground chicken mixture over the cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and spinach stuffed mushrooms
Elevate your snack or appetizer game with these savory Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms. The combination of juicy chicken, wilted spinach, and earthy mushrooms is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped spinach and garlic to the skillet and cook until spinach is wilted.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top of mushrooms during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean-style ground chicken bibimbap
Bibimbap, a popular Korean rice bowl dish, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of ground chicken. This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil with the freshness of vegetables, all on top of a bed of fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in scallions, carrot, and mushrooms. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Divide cooked rice among individual bowls.
6. Top each bowl with the ground chicken mixture and garnish with a fried egg (optional).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and quinoa skillet
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines ground chicken, quinoa, and vegetables for a satisfying dinner. With minimal prep time and cooking effort, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or chicken broth.
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 red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked quinoa and diced tomatoes to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek ground chicken gyro bowls
Savor the flavors of Greece with this easy-to-make ground chicken gyro bowl recipe. Juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce come together in a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads or bowls
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, and olives for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, parsley, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is fully cooked.
4. Warm pita breads or bowls according to package instructions.
5. Assemble gyro bowls by spooning ground chicken mixture onto each bowl, topping with tzatziki sauce, and adding your choice of cucumber, tomato, red onion, and olives.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and sweet potato hash
This hearty hash combines ground chicken with roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option. With its satisfying crunch and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a weekend staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender.
4. Roast the sweet potatoes in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. Combine the cooked ground chicken mixture with the roasted sweet potatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Ground chicken enchilada casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of ground chicken, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its easy-to-follow instructions and quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground chicken, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in enchilada sauce and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Arrange tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon ground chicken mixture over tortillas.
5. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground chicken and zucchini fritters
These flavorful fritters are a great way to use up ground chicken and zucchinis. They’re perfect as an appetizer or side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, zucchini, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place the fritters on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and cabbage stir-fry
This flavorful stir-fry recipe combines ground chicken with crisp cabbage and savory aromatics, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this nutritious meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the shredded cabbage and soy sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ground chicken and black bean chili
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that combines the richness of ground chicken with the earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
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 onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, salt, and pepper. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and broccoli pasta
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick and easy to make! This recipe combines ground chicken, broccoli, and pasta for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the chicken is fully browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and corn empanadas
Elevate your snack game with these savory empanadas filled with ground chicken, sweet corn, and spices. Perfect for a quick bite or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, corn kernels, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into squares, about 5 inches (13 cm) per side.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square. Fold dough over filling, forming a triangle or a rectangle, and press edges together with a fork.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and pesto stuffed shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique and flavorful recipe, combining ground chicken and creamy pesto for a delightful twist on traditional stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in pesto until well combined with the chicken mixture.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-pesto mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground chicken and lentil curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the richness of ground chicken with the comforting warmth of lentils. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet 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; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and 1 cup water; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and mushroom risotto
This comforting risotto dish combines tender ground chicken with earthy mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic to the skillet; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
4. If using white wine, add it now and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm the chicken broth in a separate pot.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the risotto mixture; stir until absorbed, then repeat this process until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful ground chicken recipes, perfect for any occasion! From Asian-inspired lettuce wraps to spicy tacos and creamy pasta dishes, we’ve got you covered. Discover new twists on classic favorites, such as stuffed bell peppers and meatballs in marinara sauce, or try something entirely new like Korean-style bibimbap or Greek gyro bowls. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
