Ground Chicken Recipes: Easy and Delicious Ways to Cook It

Let me tell you, there’s something about ground chicken that just makes my heart sing. It’s so versatile! You can use it in everything from simple weeknight dinners to fancy party appetizers. Plus, it’s super affordable and cooks up in a flash, making it perfect for those nights when you're craving something tasty but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless ways to cook ground chicken. From my go-to stir-fry to my crowd-pleasing shepherd's pie, this humble ingredient has always come through for me. Today, I'm going to share some of my favourite ground chicken recipes that are both easy and delicious.

(Part 1) The Basics of Ground Chicken

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about the star of the show: ground chicken.

Choosing the Right Ground Chicken

First things first, you'll want to choose the right ground chicken. It's usually sold as either dark or white meat, or a mix of both. Dark meat has a richer flavour and tends to be a bit more moist, which is great for dishes like meatballs or chili. White meat is leaner, making it a good choice for dishes where you want to keep the fat content low. Personally, I like to use a mix because it strikes a good balance of flavour and texture.

Getting the Most Out of Your Ground Chicken

Here's a little trick I've learned over the years: don't overcook your ground chicken! It can dry out quickly, so it's important to cook it just until it's no longer pink. I usually cook it in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.

Ground Chicken vs. Ground Turkey: A Quick Comparison

Now, some folks might ask, “Why ground chicken instead of ground turkey?” Honestly, both are fantastic options, but I find that ground chicken often has a more delicate flavour, which works really well in a variety of dishes. It's also a good source of protein and nutrients. However, ground turkey tends to be slightly cheaper and often has a lower fat content. So, ultimately, it comes down to personal preference!

(Part 2) Quick and Easy Ground Chicken Dinners

Let's face it, sometimes you just need a simple and satisfying meal on the table quickly. These ground chicken recipes are perfect for those busy weeknights.

1. Ground Chicken Stir-Fry

This is a go-to recipe in my household. It's fast, flavorful, and can be adapted with whatever veggies you have on hand. Here's the basic recipe: Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 cup snow peas, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in broccoli, snow peas, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook until veggies are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Serve over rice or noodles.Pro Tip: For a punch of extra flavour, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

2. One-Pan Ground Chicken and Vegetables

This recipe is all about convenience. Everything cooks together in one pan, so you have less to clean up afterwards. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 1 zucchini, chopped, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and tomatoes and cook until veggies are slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.Pro Tip: For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or crème fra??che before serving.

3. Ground Chicken and Black Bean Tacos

For a quick and satisfying meal, these tacos are a winner. They're packed with protein and flavour, and you can customize them with your favourite toppings. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed, 1/2 cup salsa, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 12 corn tortillas, your favourite toppings (e.g., shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, onions, tomatoes). Instructions: Heat ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add black beans, salsa, and cilantro. Warm tortillas according to package directions. Fill tortillas with ground chicken mixture and top with your favourite toppings.Pro Tip: For a bit of heat, add a dollop of your favourite hot sauce to your tacos.

(Part 3) Ground Chicken for a Crowd

Got guests coming over? These recipes are perfect for feeding a hungry bunch.

4. Ground Chicken and Vegetable Shepherd's Pie

This comforting classic is always a hit with everyone. It's hearty, flavorful, and easy to make ahead. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 4 cups mashed potatoes (store-bought or homemade). Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, thyme, and peas. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened. Spread mashed potatoes over the chicken mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and potatoes are golden brown.Pro Tip: For a richer flavour, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture.

5. Ground Chicken Enchiladas

These enchiladas are a delicious and festive way to serve ground chicken. They're packed with flavour and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 12 corn tortillas, 1 cup enchilada sauce. Instructions: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add diced tomatoes and green chilies. Spoon chicken mixture into tortillas. Roll up tortillas and place seam side down in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over tortillas. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.Pro Tip: For a bit of extra spice, add a teaspoon of chili powder to the taco seasoning.

6. Ground Chicken Curry

For a flavorful and exotic twist, try this ground chicken curry. It's easy to make and packed with spices that will transport your taste buds to another world. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk, 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper (optional), and salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in cilantro. Serve with rice.Pro Tip: For a richer flavour, use full-fat coconut milk.

(Part 4) Ground Chicken Appetizers

Ground chicken isn't just for main courses! It can also be transformed into delicious appetizers that are sure to impress your guests.

7. Ground Chicken and Vegetable Spring Rolls

These spring rolls are a light and refreshing appetizer, perfect for a summer party. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 onion, chopped, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1/2 cup chopped cabbage, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste, 12 spring roll wrappers, 1 cup dipping sauce (e.g., sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce). Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion, carrots, and cabbage and cook until veggies are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly. Fill spring roll wrappers with ground chicken mixture, according to package directions. Serve with dipping sauce.Pro Tip: For a bit of extra crunch, add a handful of chopped peanuts to the filling.

8. Ground Chicken Quesadillas

These quesadillas are a classic party appetizer that's always a crowd-pleaser. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 6 flour tortillas, your favourite toppings (e.g., sour cream, salsa, guacamole). Instructions: Heat ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes. Spread a thin layer of ground chicken mixture on half of each tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese. Fold tortillas in half. Heat in a skillet over medium heat until cheese is melted and tortillas are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Serve with your favourite toppings.Pro Tip: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle a little Monterey Jack cheese on top of the quesadillas before grilling.

9. Ground Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs are a versatile appetizer that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, your favourite dipping sauce (e.g., marinara sauce, barbecue sauce). Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Form into 1-inch meatballs. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve with dipping sauce.Pro Tip: For a crispier texture, pan-fry the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before baking.

(Part 5) Ground Chicken for Breakfast

Yes, you read that right: ground chicken for breakfast! It's a great way to add protein and flavour to your morning meal.

10. Ground Chicken Breakfast Burritos

These burritos are perfect for a busy morning or a weekend brunch. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 6 large flour tortillas, your favourite breakfast toppings (e.g., scrambled eggs, black beans, salsa, avocado, sour cream). Instructions: Heat ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add diced tomatoes and green chilies. Warm tortillas according to package directions. Fill tortillas with ground chicken mixture, scrambled eggs, and your favourite toppings.Pro Tip: For a bit of extra flavour, add a dollop of salsa or guacamole to your breakfast burritos.

11. Ground Chicken and Veggie Breakfast Hash

This hash is a hearty and satisfying breakfast that will keep you full until lunch. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 onion, chopped, 1 red bell pepper, chopped, 1 cup diced potatoes, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste, 2 eggs (optional). Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion, bell pepper, potatoes, and peas and cook until veggies are softened, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper. If desired, cook 2 eggs in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side. Serve with hash.Pro Tip: For a spicier hash, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet.

(Part 6) A Word on Leftovers

One of the best things about ground chicken recipes is that they’re perfect for leftovers! You can easily repurpose those delicious dishes into new and exciting meals.

12. Ground Chicken Fried Rice

Have leftover ground chicken stir-fry? It’s the perfect base for a delicious fried rice. Ingredients: 1 cup cooked rice, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 egg, beaten, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/2 cup chopped carrots, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add egg and scramble until cooked through. Add onion, peas, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in cooked rice, leftover ground chicken stir-fry, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.Pro Tip: For a crispy texture, add a handful of chopped cashews or peanuts to the fried rice.

13. Ground Chicken and Vegetable Soup

A hearty and satisfying soup is a great way to use up leftover ground chicken and veggies. Ingredients: 1 cup leftover ground chicken, 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery, onions), 4 cups chicken broth, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine ground chicken, vegetables, chicken broth, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.Pro Tip: For a creamier soup, add a dollop of sour cream or crème fra??che to each bowl before serving.

14. Ground Chicken and Vegetable Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a light and refreshing way to use up leftover ground chicken and veggies. Ingredients: 1 cup cooked pasta, 1 cup leftover ground chicken, 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes), 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Italian dressing, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: In a large bowl, combine pasta, ground chicken, vegetables, mayonnaise, Italian dressing, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.Pro Tip: For a more flavorful pasta salad, add a handful of crumbled feta cheese or a tablespoon of capers.

(Part 7) Ground Chicken: A Culinary Adventure

I've shared some of my favourite ground chicken recipes, but the possibilities are truly endless! It's an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways. Experiment, get creative, and have fun with it!

15. Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter and healthier option, try ground chicken lettuce wraps. They're a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors without the heavy carbs. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 onion, chopped, 1 cup shredded carrots, 1/2 cup chopped cabbage, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste, 12 lettuce leaves (e.g., butter lettuce, Boston lettuce), 1 cup dipping sauce (e.g., sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce). Instructions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion, carrots, and cabbage and cook until veggies are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly. Spoon ground chicken mixture into lettuce leaves and top with your favorite dipping sauce.

16. Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

These bell peppers are filled with a flavorful ground chicken mixture and baked to perfection. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 4 bell peppers, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, thyme, and peas. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened. Halve and seed bell peppers. Fill each pepper half with the chicken mixture. Top with shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

17. Ground Chicken Pizza

For a fun and unique pizza night, try a ground chicken pizza topped with your favourite ingredients. Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken, 1 tablespoon taco seasoning, 1 pizza dough, 1/2 cup pizza sauce, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, your favourite pizza toppings (e.g., onions, peppers, mushrooms, olives). Instructions: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Heat ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes. Spread pizza dough on a baking sheet. Spread pizza sauce over the dough. Top with ground chicken mixture, mozzarella cheese, and your favourite pizza toppings. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.

(Part 8) FAQs

Q1. Is ground chicken safe to eat?

Yes, ground chicken is safe to eat as long as it's cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to cook it thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken.

Q2. How long can I store ground chicken in the fridge?

You can store ground chicken in the fridge for 1-2 days. Make sure to keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent the chicken from drying out and absorbing flavors from other foods in your fridge. You can also freeze ground chicken for up to 3-4 months. To freeze ground chicken, shape it into patties or flatten it into a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. This makes it easier to thaw and use later.

Q3. Can I use ground chicken in place of ground beef in recipes?

Yes, you can often use ground chicken in place of ground beef in recipes. Just be aware that ground chicken has a different flavour and texture than ground beef. You may need to adjust the recipe accordingly. For example, you may need to add more liquid or cooking time to compensate for the difference in moisture content.

Q4. How do I know if ground chicken is spoiled?

Ground chicken is spoiled if it has a sour or off smell, a slimy texture, or a discolored appearance. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the chicken. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

Q5. What are some good ways to use leftover ground chicken?

Leftover ground chicken is a fantastic base for a variety of dishes. You can use it in stir-fries, salads, soups, tacos, and more. Get creative and see what you can come up with! Leftover ground chicken can be a real lifesaver when you're short on time. It's a great way to add protein and flavour to a quick and easy meal.

There you have it – my ground chicken recipe collection! Whether you're looking for a simple weeknight meal or a fancy party appetizer, this versatile ingredient has you covered. So, why not give ground chicken a try? It's delicious, affordable, and surprisingly fun to cook with. You might just discover your next favourite recipe!