Ground chicken is a tasty and healthy option for many meals. It’s easy to cook with and can be used in lots of different recipes. You can make burgers, meatballs, tacos, and more using ground chicken.
Ground chicken recipes are a great way to add variety to your dinners. These dishes are often quick to make and full of flavor. You can try new spices and sauces to create meals your family will love. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of cooking with ground chicken.
Ground chicken tacos are a tasty and easy meal. You can make them in about 20 minutes. Start by cooking diced onions in a pan for a few minutes.
Add ground chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink. This takes 7-8 minutes. Mix in taco seasoning for flavor.
You can add extras like bell peppers, corn, or black beans. These make the tacos more filling and colorful. Tomato sauce is another good add-in.
Serve the chicken in taco shells with your favorite toppings. Try shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. Fresh cilantro and lime juice add a nice touch.
Chicken lettuce wraps are a tasty and light meal option. You can make them easily at home with ground chicken and a few simple ingredients.
Start by cooking ground chicken in a skillet until it’s no longer pink. Add minced garlic, onions, and ginger for flavor.
Mix in some hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to give the chicken a savory-sweet taste. For extra crunch, toss in some water chestnuts and diced carrots.
Spoon the chicken mixture into butter lettuce leaves. Top with green onions and serve. These wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs give you a tasty twist on the classic dish. To make them, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs.
Form the mixture into small balls. Then coat them in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy outside. Cook the meatballs in a skillet until they’re brown on all sides.
Finish cooking them in the oven at 375°F. Serve these meatballs with marinara sauce and more cheese on top. They’re great with pasta or on their own as an appetizer.
You can make these meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later. They’re a fun way to enjoy the flavors of chicken Parmesan in bite-sized form.
Buffalo chicken meatballs pack the spicy flavor of wings into bite-sized portions. You can make them with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and buffalo sauce.
Mix the ingredients and shape them into small balls. Bake them in the oven until cooked through.
Toss the meatballs in more buffalo sauce after baking for extra flavor. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
These meatballs work great as an appetizer or main dish. You can make them ahead and freeze for easy reheating later.
Chicken Pad Thai is a tasty stir-fry dish you can make at home. You’ll need rice noodles, ground chicken, eggs, and veggies like bean sprouts and green onions.
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. In a hot pan, cook the ground chicken until it’s no longer pink.
Push the chicken to one side and scramble the eggs in the same pan. Mix everything together and add your sauce. The sauce usually includes fish sauce, lime juice, and a bit of sugar.
Toss in the cooked noodles and veggies. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve your Chicken Pad Thai hot with crushed peanuts on top.
Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a tasty and light dish you can easily make at home. They feature ground chicken cooked with flavorful Asian-inspired seasonings.
To make them, cook ground chicken with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Add some veggies like water chestnuts or carrots for crunch.
Serve the chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves. Bibb or butter lettuce works well. These wraps are great for a quick meal or as an appetizer.
You can adjust the spices to suit your taste. Try adding hoisin sauce or sriracha for extra flavor. These wraps are a healthier option than takeout and just as delicious.
Ground chicken makes a tasty filling for enchiladas. Mix cooked ground chicken with spices like cumin and chili powder for flavor. Add some diced onions and peppers if you like.
Wrap the chicken mixture in soft tortillas. Place them seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake the enchiladas until the cheese melts and gets bubbly. The tortillas will crisp up a bit on the edges. Serve your chicken enchiladas hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado.
This meal is easy to make ahead and reheat later. You can also freeze extra enchiladas for another day.
Chicken burgers are a tasty and healthier alternative to beef burgers. You can make them easily at home using ground chicken.
Mix the chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings to keep the patties juicy. Form the mixture into patties and chill them for at least an hour before cooking.
Cook your chicken burgers in a skillet or on the grill. Heat the pan or grill to medium-high and brush the patties with oil. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until they reach 165°F internally.
For extra flavor, try adding herbs, spices, or diced veggies to your burger mix. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Chicken lasagna offers a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You can use ground chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
Cook the ground chicken in a skillet until browned. Add garlic, marinara sauce, and seasonings to create a flavorful meat sauce.
Layer the chicken sauce with lasagna noodles and a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Some recipes include spinach for extra nutrition.
Bake the lasagna in a 375°F oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the layers to set.
This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You can make it ahead and reheat it for an easy weeknight dinner.
Chicken stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty low-carb meal option. To make them, cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some flesh.
Mix ground chicken with cheese, seasonings, and the scooped-out zucchini. Fill the hollow zucchini halves with this mixture.
Place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish and cook at 400°F for about 20-30 minutes. Add more cheese on top for the last 5 minutes if you like.
This dish is easy to customize. You can add spinach, tomato sauce, or other veggies to the filling. The result is a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s simple to prepare.
Chicken Bolognese offers a lighter twist on the classic Italian pasta sauce. You can make it easily at home with ground chicken, veggies, and tomatoes.
Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in olive oil. Add ground chicken and cook until browned. Mix in carrots, celery, and seasonings like oregano and basil.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer to blend the flavors. Serve over your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or pappardelle.
This dish is tasty and nutritious. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. You can even make it in a slow cooker for extra convenience.
Ground chicken makes a tasty twist on classic chicken noodle soup. Start by browning the ground chicken in a large pot. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until soft.
Stir in minced garlic and your favorite herbs like thyme or oregano. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add egg noodles and simmer until tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. This comforting soup comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
You can customize it with extra vegetables or different noodles. Serve hot with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ground chicken stir fry is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
You’ll cook ground chicken with veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, onions, and carrots in a single pan. Add a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce to bring it all together.
This dish is both healthy and satisfying. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and nutrients from the vegetables.
Serve your stir fry over rice for a complete meal. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the sauce to your taste. It’s an easy way to please the whole family.
Chicken Tetrazzini is a tasty pasta dish that’s perfect for using ground chicken. You’ll love this creamy, comforting meal.
To make it, cook spaghetti noodles and set them aside. In a pan, sauté garlic and mushrooms in butter. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
Mix in cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream to create a rich sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and some grated Parmesan cheese.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top with more cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. Your family will ask for this dish again and again!
Chicken tortilla soup is a tasty Mexican-inspired dish you can make with ground chicken. Start by cooking onions, garlic, and jalapenos in a pot. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer the soup for about 15 minutes. Stir in black beans and corn for extra texture and flavor.
Serve your soup hot with toppings like tortilla strips, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or when you want a filling meal in a bowl.
Chicken quesadillas are a tasty and easy meal you can whip up in no time. Ground chicken works great for a quick filling. Cook it with some onions and spices for extra flavor.
Choose your favorite cheese to melt inside. Cheddar, monterey jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all work well. Spread the cooked chicken and cheese between two tortillas.
Cook the quesadillas in a skillet until golden brown and crispy on both sides. The cheese should be fully melted. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
You can add other fillings too. Try bell peppers, corn, or black beans for more variety. Chicken quesadillas make a satisfying lunch or dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Chicken empanadas are tasty hand pies filled with savory ground chicken. To make them, cook ground chicken with onions, peppers, and spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika.
Let the filling cool, then spoon it into empanada dough circles. Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
You can bake empanadas at 375°F for a lighter option. Or fry them in oil until golden brown for a crispier crust.
Serve these portable pies as an appetizer or main dish. They’re great for parties or quick meals on the go.
Chicken ragu is a tasty Italian-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
This sauce combines ground chicken with tomatoes, onions, and herbs. It cooks down to create a rich, flavorful topping for pasta.
To make chicken ragu, brown the ground chicken in a pan. Add chopped onions, garlic, and tomato paste. Pour in some broth and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
Serve your chicken ragu over your favorite pasta. It goes well with spaghetti, penne, or even homemade noodles. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Italian wedding soup is a tasty dish that uses ground chicken. You can make small meatballs with the ground chicken, herbs, and breadcrumbs.
Cook the meatballs in broth with vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach. Add tiny pasta shapes for extra texture.
The soup has a rich flavor from the chicken meatballs and veggies. It’s filling and perfect for cold days. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Chicken gyros are a tasty Greek-inspired dish you can easily make at home. Start by marinating chicken pieces in a mix of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices.
Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through. While it cooks, prepare tzatziki sauce by combining yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, and lemon juice.
Warm up some pita bread and assemble your gyros. Add the cooked chicken, tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, and red onions to the pita. Fold it up and enjoy your homemade chicken gyros!
Chicken potstickers are a tasty twist on traditional dumplings. You can make them at home with ground chicken, shredded cabbage, and carrots.
Mix the chicken with veggies, soy sauce, and seasonings. Spoon the filling into dumpling wrappers and seal the edges.
Cook the potstickers by frying and steaming. This gives them a crispy bottom and soft top. Serve with a soy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
You can make a big batch and freeze some for later. They’re great as an appetizer or light meal. Homemade potstickers taste better than store-bought and are fun to make with friends or family.
Chicken fajitas are a tasty and simple meal you can make at home. You’ll need chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions as the main ingredients.
Slice the chicken and veggies into thin strips. Season the chicken with fajita spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet until it’s no longer pink. Add the peppers and onions, cooking until they’re soft and slightly charred.
Serve your fajitas on warm tortillas. Top them with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa if you like. This dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gatherings with friends.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Chicken
Ground chicken offers several health advantages. It’s a lean protein source that can fit into many diets and meal plans.
High Protein Content
Ground chicken packs a protein punch. A 3-ounce serving provides about 21 grams of protein. This makes up roughly 42% of the daily value for an average adult.
Protein helps build and repair tissues in your body. It’s key for strong muscles, bones, and skin.
Ground chicken can keep you feeling full longer. This may help with weight management and muscle growth.
Low Fat Option
Ground chicken is a lower-fat choice compared to many other meats. A 3-ounce serving has about 7 grams of fat.
This makes it a good pick if you’re watching your fat intake. The lower fat content means fewer calories too.
You can use ground chicken in place of higher-fat meats in many recipes. This simple swap can cut calories and fat in your meals.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Ground chicken gives you more than just protein. It’s packed with important nutrients your body needs.
Here are some key vitamins and minerals in ground chicken:
Vitamin B6: Helps your body use and store energy from protein and carbs
Niacin: Supports your digestive system, skin, and nerves
Phosphorus: Important for strong bones and teeth
Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and supports thyroid function
These nutrients play vital roles in keeping your body working well. Adding ground chicken to your diet can boost your intake of these essentials.
Cooking Tips for Ground Chicken
Ground chicken is a versatile protein that can be used in many dishes. These tips will help you get the best results when cooking with it.
Choosing the Right Cut
Pick ground chicken with about 90-93% lean meat. This gives you a good balance of flavor and moisture. Look for packages labeled “ground chicken breast” for the leanest option.
For more flavor, choose ground chicken thigh. It has a higher fat content, making it juicier. You can also mix breast and thigh meat for a blend of lean protein and rich taste.
Check the color before buying. Fresh ground chicken should be light pink. Avoid any packages with gray or brown spots.
Proper Seasoning Techniques
Season ground chicken well to enhance its mild flavor. Salt and pepper are basics, but don’t stop there. Try garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
Mix seasonings into the meat before cooking for the best flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of seasoning per pound of chicken.
For extra punch, add fresh herbs or citrus zest. Lemon zest brightens the taste, while fresh cilantro adds a Mexican flair.
Marinate ground chicken for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds moisture and flavor. A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs works great.
Safe Handling and Storage
Keep ground chicken cold until you’re ready to cook. Store it in the coldest part of your fridge, usually the back.
Use ground chicken within 1-2 days of buying. If you’re not using it right away, freeze it. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thaw frozen ground chicken in the fridge overnight. Never thaw on the counter, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
Cook ground chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check. This ensures all harmful bacteria are killed.
Wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw chicken. Use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
Creative Ways to Use Ground Chicken
Ground chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many exciting dishes. You can make flavorful international meals or swap it into classic recipes for a healthier twist.
International Cuisine Ideas
Try making Thai-inspired lettuce wraps with ground chicken, ginger, and garlic. Stuff the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a light meal. For Italian flair, use ground chicken in lasagna or stuffed shells instead of beef. Make Greek-style meatballs with oregano and lemon zest, served with tzatziki sauce.
Whip up chicken pot stickers for a tasty Asian appetizer. Mix ground chicken with cabbage, green onions, and seasonings. Wrap in wonton skins and pan-fry until golden. Serve with a soy-ginger dipping sauce.
Healthy Swaps for Traditional Recipes
Replace beef with ground chicken in tacos, chili, or spaghetti sauce for leaner versions of these comfort foods. Make chicken burgers seasoned with herbs and topped with avocado slices. For a low-carb option, stuff bell peppers with a mixture of ground chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Create healthier meatballs using ground chicken, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and grated zucchini. Bake them instead of frying. Use ground chicken to make a lighter version of shepherd’s pie, topping it with mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
