Ground chicken is a healthy alternative to ground beef and can be used in a wide variety of delicious dishes.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of our favorite ground chicken recipes, ranging from ground chicken burgers to chicken parmesan pasta. These recipes are not only healthy, but they're also quick and easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. So let's dive in and discover some tasty new ways to use ground chicken instead of ground beef.
Keep on reading to learn more about these healthy ground chicken recipes!
Please note that the recipes provided here are only suggestions and do not necessarily account for individual dietary preferences or restrictions.
Ground Chicken Burgers
A delicious and easy ground chicken burger recipe that can be made in just 20 minutes. This dish is perfect for those looking for a lean and tasty alternative to traditional beef burgers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, etc.
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty.
- Cook the patties on the preheated grill or griddle for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
An easy and flavorful chicken parmesan pasta dish that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Made with ground chicken and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the chicken mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground chicken meatballs over medium heat, turning occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove from heat.
- In a baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and cooked meatballs. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Ground Chicken Tacos
Spice up your taco night with these easy and flavorful ground chicken tacos. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and quick alternative to traditional beef tacos.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 taco shells or small flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, etc.
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Warm the taco shells or tortillas according to package instructions.
- Assemble the tacos by spooning the ground chicken mixture into the shells or tortillas and topping with your favorite taco fixings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Chicken Lettuce Wraps
For a light and healthy meal option, try these Asian-inspired ground chicken lettuce wraps. They're packed with flavor and can be made in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha or other hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated and washed
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and green onions.
- Spoon the ground chicken mixture onto the lettuce leaves and serve immediately.
Ground Chicken Chili
This hearty and flavorful chicken chili is perfect for a cozy night in. Made with lean ground chicken, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef chili.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, and ground cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the chili with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or tortilla chips.
Chicken Empanadas
These delicious and easy-to-make chicken empanadas are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. The flavorful ground chicken filling is wrapped in a flaky pastry and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package (14-16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts, thawed
- 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ground cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crusts to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 4-inch round cookie cutter or glass, cut out circles from the dough.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the ground chicken mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Place the empanadas on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden brown and crispy. Serve hot and enjoy!
Chicken Sloppy Joes
A fun twist on a classic favorite, these ground chicken sloppy joes are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in the oven for about 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Spoon the ground chicken mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted hamburger buns, then top with the other half of the bun.
Asian Ground Chicken Stir Fry
This quick and easy Asian ground chicken stir fry is packed with flavor and can be made in just 20 minutes. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha or other hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the red bell pepper and snow peas, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions and cilantro.
- Serve the stir fry over cooked rice or noodles and enjoy!
Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Spice up your next meal with these delicious and easy-to-make firecracker chicken meatballs. They're packed with flavor and perfect for an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the chicken mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the firecracker sauce by combining the hot sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the firecracker sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve the meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main dish over rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Feel free to explore more recipes with ground chicken, such as butter chicken meatballs, sesame ground chicken, or sweet and sour chicken. Ground chicken is a versatile and healthy alternative to other meats like ground beef, ground pork, or ground turkey. Its mild flavor and lean profile make it perfect for a variety of dishes, from burgers and chicken casseroles to empanadas and chicken egg rolls.
Chicken Parmesan Pasta
This delicious and comforting chicken parmesan pasta dish is made with ground chicken instead of breaded chicken cutlets, making it a healthier and simpler alternative to the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz cooked pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
- Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Chicken Cottage Pie
This comforting and hearty chicken cottage pie is made with ground chicken instead of ground beef, making it a lighter and healthier option for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and vegetable mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the mixture has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top, and sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling. Allow the pie to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Add some spice to your dinner rotation with these scrumptious buffalo chicken meatballs. They're perfect for game day, parties, or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank's RedHot)
- 1/4 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the chicken mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve the meatballs with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping, if desired. Enjoy!
Sesame Ground Chicken
This easy and delicious sesame ground chicken recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
-
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve the sesame ground chicken over cooked rice or noodles and enjoy!
Special Mentions
In addition to the mouthwatering recipes we've already shared, we'd like to give some special mentions to a few other ground chicken dishes that are worth trying. These recipes are not only delicious and satisfying, but they also take only 20 minutes to make. They're perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something new and exciting.
- Ground Orange Chicken - This dish combines the classic flavors of orange chicken with the ease of using ground meat. It's one of the easiest and quickest ways to enjoy the popular Chinese-American dish at home.
- Chicken Parmesan Meatballs - A unique twist on the traditional chicken parmesan, these meatballs are made with ground chicken and baked to perfection. Serve them over pasta or on a sub roll for a delicious and comforting meal.
- Spicy Ground Chicken - For those who like it hot, this spicy ground chicken dish is perfect. It's packed with flavor from a blend of spices and can be served over rice or used as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps.
- BBQ Chicken Meatloaf - This tasty chicken meatloaf is made with ground chicken and flavored with your favorite BBQ sauce. It's a delicious twist on a classic comfort food.
- Thai Basil Chicken - Also known as "Pad Krapow Gai," this flavorful Thai dish features ground chicken stir-fried with basil, garlic, and chili peppers. It's a healthy and delicious option for a quick weeknight meal.
- Chicken Mince Tacos - Swap out your usual ground beef or turkey for ground chicken in this easy chicken taco recipe. The chicken mince is seasoned with a mix of spices and served in taco shells or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Conclusion
These quick and easy ground chicken recipes demonstrate that opting for healthier, leaner protein doesn't mean you have to compromise on taste or variety. From baked chicken and seasoned ground chicken dishes to chicken picadillo and more, there's no shortage of flavorful and nutritious meal options for you to try.
Incorporate ground chicken into your favorite recipes, or experiment with new ideas like swapping chicken breast for ground chicken to keep things interesting. With so many delicious options available, these quick and easy ground chicken recipes are sure to become favorites in your household.
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