When it comes to quick and easy dinner options, ground chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From classic comfort food to international-inspired meals, there’s no shortage of creative ways to use this affordable and nutritious protein. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, these 20 flavorful ground chicken recipes are sure to become staples in your household.
From hearty casseroles and skillet dinners to refreshing salads and international dishes, this collection of recipes showcases the best of what ground chicken has to offer. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the many delicious ways you can incorporate ground chicken into your busy weeknight routine.
Asian-inspired ground chicken lettuce wraps
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with a fresh twist on traditional lettuce wraps. The sweet and savory ground chicken mixture is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
– Sliced avocado, carrots, and cucumber (optional)
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 the scallions, garlic, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by spooning the ground chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves and adding optional toppings like avocado, carrots, and cucumber.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy ground chicken and sweet potato skillet
A flavorful and filling one-pot dish that combines spicy ground chicken with roasted sweet potatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the sweet potato cubes to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and spinach stuffed peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground chicken with wilted spinach and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted.
6. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy ground chicken meatballs with marinara
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. These tender meatballs are perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and zucchini stir-fry
This recipe is a perfect combination of protein and vegetables, cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. With the simplicity of ground chicken and the crunch of zucchini, this stir-fry is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
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 into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the zucchini slices and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. Season with soy sauce to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy ground chicken and rice casserole
This comforting casserole is a twist on the classic chicken and rice dish, with the added richness of melted cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cooked chicken mixture, and shredded cheese.
5. Pour in milk and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken taco salad with avocado dressing
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional taco salads, this recipe combines ground chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and a creamy avocado dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8 oz mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips, crushed
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground chicken with onion, bell pepper, and taco seasoning until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, toast tortilla chips for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
4. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, queso fresco, cilantro, and cooked chicken in a bowl.
5. Blend diced avocado with salt and pepper to taste for the dressing.
6. Serve salad immediately and drizzle with avocado dressing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai basil ground chicken with jasmine rice
This flavorful and aromatic dish combines the simplicity of ground chicken with the bold flavors of Thai basil and the creamy richness of coconut milk, served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups mixed Thai basil leaves and stems
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
– 1 cup jasmine rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, Thai basil leaves, coconut milk, and fish sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and mushroom stroganoff
A comforting twist on the classic dish, this recipe combines tender ground chicken with sautéed mushrooms and a rich creamy sauce, served over egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed (5-7 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, and onion to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (5 minutes).
4. Pour in beef broth and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional minute.
6. Serve chicken and mushroom mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy ground chicken and quinoa bowls
Boost your meal with this nutritious recipe that combines lean ground chicken, protein-rich quinoa, and a burst of flavor from sautéed vegetables. This quick and easy bowl is perfect for a busy day or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, avocado, or feta cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked quinoa and chicken mixture in a bowl.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of cilantro, avocado, or feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and black bean enchiladas
These flavorful enchiladas combine the richness of ground chicken with the savory taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. A perfect blend of Mexican-inspired flavors for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spreading chicken mixture onto a tortilla, rolling, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-style ground chicken gyros with tzatziki
Discover the flavors of Greece with this simple recipe for ground chicken gyros served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. This classic street food is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing a cooked patty onto a warmed pita bread, followed by tzatziki sauce and any desired toppings (such as tomato, red onion, and feta cheese).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and vegetable spring rolls
Spring rolls are a popular Asian-inspired snack or appetizer that can be easily made at home. This recipe combines ground chicken, vegetables, and spring roll wrappers to create a delicious and crispy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground chicken, chopped vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook until the chicken is fully browned and the vegetables are tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cooked mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken-vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Fry spring rolls in hot oil until crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish, including cooking time.
Ground chicken and kale stuffed shells
This recipe combines the classic Italian dish with a twist of savory ground chicken and nutritious kale. The result is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 cup chopped kale
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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, minced garlic, and chopped kale to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent and kale is wilted.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-kale mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Korean ground chicken bibimbap
Bibimbap, a popular Korean rice bowl dish, gets a flavorful twist with the addition of ground chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, shredded carrots, diced zucchini, chopped green onions)
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups assorted vegetables for garnish (bok choy, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet; stir well.
4. Prepare the mixed vegetables by steaming or sautéing them briefly.
5. Assemble the bibimbap by placing a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by a portion of ground chicken mixture and a selection of mixed vegetables.
6. Garnish with additional assorted vegetables and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and corn empanadas
These empanadas are a flavorful fusion of ground chicken, sweet corn, and spices, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a snack or meal, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
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 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil, melted
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with melted oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and lentil curry
This recipe combines the comfort of ground chicken with the nutritional benefits of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful and aromatic curry. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground chicken and pesto stuffed mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and savory dish that combines the richness of ground chicken, the creaminess of pesto, and the earthy goodness of mushrooms. Perfect for a quick dinner or a party crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, pesto, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the chicken mixture, mounding it slightly.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and cabbage dumplings
This recipe combines the flavors of ground chicken, cabbage, and spices to create a tasty and savory dumpling dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium cabbage, finely chopped
– 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 for wrapping dumplings
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cabbage, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Add the flour and mix until just combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Wrap each dumpling in a small piece of plastic wrap, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
5. Cook the dumplings by boiling them in water for 5-7 minutes or pan-frying with a little oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and ground chicken to create a quick, easy, and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and ground chicken mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering ground chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From Asian-inspired lettuce wraps to cheesy casserole, and from tacos to stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with ground chicken meatballs, stroganoff, or empanadas, or try healthier options like quinoa bowls or lentil curry. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or mild, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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