When it comes to protein-packed meals, ground chicken is an excellent option. It’s leaner than beef and pork, yet still packed with flavor and nutrients. But what do you do with all that ground chicken? We’ve got 20 delicious recipes to get you started! From tacos to meatballs, stuffed peppers to stir-fries, we’ve rounded up the best ground chicken recipes for a healthy twist.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through flavors and cuisines, showcasing dishes that are not only tasty but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or special occasion recipes, our collection of ground chicken recipes has got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!
Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, these Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos pack a punch with bold spices and savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A twist on traditional wraps, these flavorful ground chicken lettuce wraps are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 small patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves by washing and drying them.
6. Assemble wraps by placing a cooked patty onto a lettuce leaf and adding any desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Transform your dinner routine with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines juicy chicken meatballs with zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
6. Serve meatballs with zucchini noodles, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Healthy Chicken Burger with Avocado
Kick-start your day with a nutritious twist on the classic burger! This recipe combines lean chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns (whole wheat or sprouted)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix chicken breast with breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading mashed avocado on the bottom bun, followed by a chicken patty, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl packed with protein-rich ground chicken, nutty quinoa, and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as kale and spinach)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, reheat the cooked quinoa according to package instructions.
6. To assemble the bowls, divide the quinoa among four bowls. Top with the ground chicken mixture, mixed greens, and any desired additional toppings (such as cherry tomatoes or avocado).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and satisfying recipe featuring earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and vibrant spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (crimini or portobello work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, chopped spinach, and cream cheese. Mix until smooth.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken-spinach mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
This one-pan wonder is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights. With ground chicken, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, you’ll have a satisfying dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Asian-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Cups
A refreshing twist on traditional lettuce wraps, these Asian-inspired cups pack a punch of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 lettuce leaves
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together chopped scallions and garlic.
5. Assemble lettuce cups by placing cooked chicken on a lettuce leaf, followed by a spoonful of scallion-garlic mixture.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Kale Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of ground chicken, crispy kale, and savory soy sauce for a nutritious and satisfying meal. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have this dish ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 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. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chopped kale and stir-fry until wilted and tender (about 4-5 minutes).
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A creamy and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of cauliflower rice with the richness of chicken and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cauliflower florets in boiling water until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked cauliflower rice, cooked chicken, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
In this quick and easy recipe, ground chicken is cooked with broccoli and a blend of savory spices to create a flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Spring Rolls
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional spring rolls, this recipe combines juicy chicken with crunchy vegetables and crispy wrappers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 package spring roll wrappers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chicken, vegetables, soy sauce, cilantro, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to shallow-fry the spring rolls (about 1/2 inch deep).
5. Fry the spring rolls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Zucchini Fritters
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines ground chicken with sautéed zucchini and spices to create a delicious and moist treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped zucchini, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1-inch thick.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple and satisfying recipe for Chicken and Black Bean Enchiladas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the black beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Brush both sides of tortillas with vegetable oil and warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken and bean mixture onto a tortilla, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Eggplant Parmesan
A delicious twist on traditional chicken parmesan, this recipe combines ground chicken with sliced eggplant for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the eggplant slices and fry until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Dip each fried eggplant slice into the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
6. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and golden.
7. Serve hot with your favorite pasta dish.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy chicken, savory brown rice, and crunchy bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, brown rice, and shredded cheese (if using). Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry
In just a few minutes, you can whip up this tasty stir-fry using ground chicken and crunchy cabbage.
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
– Scallions, thinly sliced (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 with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the shredded cabbage and soy sauce; cook until the cabbage is slightly wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, this dish combines the comfort of chicken and spinach with the richness of cream and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well until combined.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Avocado Salad
This salad is a vibrant combination of juicy ground chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
2. Let the chicken cool slightly, then stir in olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled chicken mixture, avocado, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these delicious and healthy ground chicken recipes! From tacos to burgers, meatballs to stir-fries, we’ve got you covered. Try Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos, or indulge in Healthy Chicken Burgers with Avocado for a nutritious take on the classic burger. With 20 mouthwatering options to choose from, you’ll never get bored of the same old dishes again. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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