When it comes to versatile and delicious protein sources, ground chicken is a great option. With its mild flavor and tender texture, it can be easily transformed into a wide range of dishes, from classic comfort food to international-inspired cuisine. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful ground chicken recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks, including everything from wraps and stir-fries to casseroles and kebabs.
From hearty breakfast options to satisfying dinner ideas, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of ground chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some delicious ground chicken creations!
Asian-inspired ground chicken lettuce wraps
These flavorful wraps are a refreshing twist on traditional lettuce wraps, packed with the savory flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 lettuce leaves
• Optional: sliced bell peppers, carrots, or pickled ginger for added crunch
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, honey, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves.
5. Top with chopped scallions and any desired additional toppings (bell peppers, carrots, or pickled ginger).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy ground chicken and zucchini stir-fry
This spicy stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious meal that can be ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the zucchini, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth; stir-fry until the zucchini is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and mushroom stuffed peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground chicken, mushrooms, and cheese with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
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, mushrooms, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy ground chicken enchilada casserole
A twist on traditional enchiladas, this casserole combines ground chicken, cheese, and tortillas for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tsp cumin
– 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 fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese.
5. To assemble the casserole, spread half of the cooked chicken mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 4-5 tortillas on top, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and spinach meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with these flavorful meatballs made with ground chicken, spinach, and a hint of Italian seasonings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a 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. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite marinara sauce and pasta, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thai basil ground chicken with jasmine rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic dish that combines juicy ground chicken, fragrant Thai basil, and fluffy jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
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 garlic, Thai basil, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), brown sugar, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the ground chicken mixture over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and sweet potato skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of ground chicken, sweet potatoes, and spices for a satisfying and nutritious one-pan meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 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. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic parmesan ground chicken pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender ground chicken, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of creaminess. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the garlic and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, chicken mixture, and parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
6. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and black bean tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the boldness of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, followed by black beans and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean ground chicken kebabs
Mediterranean Ground Chicken Kebabs: A flavorful twist on traditional kebabs, these Mediterranean-inspired treats combine the richness of chicken with the bright, citrusy notes of Greece and Turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Thread 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each portion.
4. Place kebabs on preheated grill or grill pan and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Ground chicken and quinoa stuffed bell peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground chicken with quinoa and spices for a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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 into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Cover and bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Teriyaki ground chicken fried rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds the savory flavors of teriyaki ground chicken and vegetables for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup ground chicken
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (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 up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, onion, and garlic; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground chicken and cabbage stir-fry
This flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein. Made with ground chicken, crunchy cabbage, and savory soy sauce, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok 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, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage is tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo ground chicken sliders
Satisfy your cravings with these bite-sized Buffalo chicken sliders, packed with spicy flavor and tender ground chicken. Perfect for game day gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickles, for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, buffalo wing sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small patties, about 1-inch thick.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken patty onto each bun. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ground chicken and corn chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this ground chicken and corn chowder is a delicious twist on traditional clam chowder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in flour to coat the chicken and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, and bring mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
8. Stir in corn kernels and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and pesto stuffed mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of ground chicken and pesto, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir well.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the cooked chicken mixture, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle pesto over the filling, followed by Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and lentil curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and comforting ground chicken and lentils. With its rich aroma and tender texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups 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 until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and avocado lettuce wraps
Summary: A fresh and flavorful twist on traditional wraps, these Ground Chicken and Avocado Lettuce Wraps combine the juiciness of cooked chicken with creamy avocado and crunchy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 ripe avocado, diced
– 4-6 large lettuce leaves (Romaine or Buttercrunch work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite wrap toppings (e.g. tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese)
Instructions:
1. In a medium pan, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced avocado and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm your lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing the chicken mixture onto the warmed lettuce, followed by any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and broccoli stir-fry
This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies in no time. With ground chicken, broccoli, and a few simple seasonings, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 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 5-6 minutes).
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ground chicken and sun-dried tomato meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful combination of ground chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. This moist and savory loaf is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup marinara sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Optional: serve with marinara sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of ground chicken with these 20 mouth-watering recipes. From Asian-inspired lettuce wraps to spicy stir-fries, stuffed peppers, and casserole classics, there’s something for every taste and cuisine. Savor the flavors of Thailand with jasmine rice and Thai basil, or get cozy with a hearty skillet dinner featuring sweet potatoes and ground chicken. Plus, indulge in cheesy pasta, tacos, kebabs, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
