20 Flavorful Ground Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights
When it comes to quick and easy meals, ground chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re short on time or looking to mix things up from your usual go-to recipes, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful ground chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights.
From Asian-inspired lettuce wraps to Mediterranean pita pockets, and from tacos to stuffed shells, our collection of ground chicken recipes offers a world of flavors to explore. And the best part? Each dish can be ready in no more than 30 minutes!
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the globe, highlighting some of our favorite ground chicken recipes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen.
Asian-inspired ground chicken lettuce wraps
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the freshness of a lettuce wrap, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. The ground chicken is seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with crunchy vegetables and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, scallions, carrots, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble the wraps by spooning the chicken mixture onto the lettuce, topping with sliced avocado, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy ground chicken tacos with avocado crema
Add a kick to your tacos with this flavorful recipe featuring spicy ground chicken and creamy avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced jalapeño pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced jalapeño pepper and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add ground chicken, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until chicken is fully cooked.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning spicy chicken onto tortillas and topping with avocado crema.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Mash avocados in a bowl. Stir in sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and mushroom stuffed peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a blend of spices to create a hearty and satisfying main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the mushrooms, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken-mushroom mixture and top with cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Healthy ground chicken and quinoa bowl
This recipe combines protein-rich ground chicken with fiber-filled quinoa and a burst of flavors from fresh vegetables, making for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite toppings such as avocado, feta cheese, or a squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the cooked quinoa and add it to the skillet along with the mixed bell peppers. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken meatballs in marinara sauce
This classic Italian-inspired recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for pasta nights or as an appetizer. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, you’ll be enjoying tender meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 28 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, 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. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat. Add baked meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes to coat.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai basil ground chicken stir-fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines ground chicken, Thai basil, and a blend of spices to create a delicious and aromatic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups Thai basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and Thai basil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and zucchini skillet
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic ground chicken dish, adding the sweetness of zucchini to create a delicious one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced zucchinis; cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy ground chicken stuffed jalapeños
These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Juicy ground chicken, melted cheese, and crispy jalapeños come together in a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12-15 jalapeño peppers
• Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Cut the tops off the jalapeños and carefully hollow out the insides.
4. Stuff each jalapeño with the chicken mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
5. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and sweet potato hash
Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional hash, with ground chicken adding protein-packed flavor and sweet potatoes providing natural sweetness. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chives or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sweet potatoes start to caramelize.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean-style ground chicken bibimbap
Bibimbap, a popular Korean dish, literally means “mixed rice.” This recipe adds a twist by using ground chicken for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 1 fried egg, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Prepare the mixed vegetables by stir-frying them in a separate pan with a little oil until tender-crisp.
4. To assemble the bibimbap, place a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by the ground chicken mixture and top with the mixed vegetables.
5. Garnish with green onions, sliced fried egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and spinach stuffed shells
This recipe combines the comfort of stuffed shells with the flavors of ground chicken and spinach, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Stuff each shell with the ground chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean ground chicken pita pockets
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional chicken pita pockets, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickled red onion for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the bell pepper, olives, feta, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the pita breads in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the pita pockets by spooning the chicken mixture into the warmed pita breads. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickled red onion if desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and cabbage stir-fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines ground chicken with crunchy cabbage, garlic, and ginger for a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil 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 garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and stir-fry until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ground chicken and corn empanadas
Ground Chicken and Corn Empanadas Recipe
Embrace the flavors of Latin America with these savory empanadas filled with ground chicken, sweet corn, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 empanada wrappers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, corn kernels, onion, cilantro, and cheese. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions, depending on the size of your empanada wrappers.
4. Place an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) around the edges of each wrapper.
5. Place a portion of the chicken mixture in the center of each wrapper.
6. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and black bean enchiladas
A twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the rich flavors of ground chicken, black beans, and spices for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked black beans and enchilada sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the ground chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
7. Cover the rolled enchiladas with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground chicken and broccoli stir-fry with garlic sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of ground chicken, broccoli, and garlic sauce to create a tasty and nutritious stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons garlic sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
3. Stir in the garlic sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground chicken and pesto stuffed mushrooms
Ground Chicken and Pesto Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Elevate your mushroom game with this flavorful combination of ground chicken, pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, pesto, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling in each mushroom.
5. Top each mushroom with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground chicken and butternut squash chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful chili recipe that combines the tender texture of ground chicken with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink.
4. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and roasted butternut squash. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Ground chicken and kale stuffed sweet potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of ground chicken, kale, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, cook ground chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each sweet potato with cooked ground chicken mixture and top with chopped kale.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Ground chicken and sun-dried tomato pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground chicken with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a creamy pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and ground chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 mouth-watering ground chicken recipes! From Asian-inspired lettuce wraps to Mediterranean pita pockets, and from tacos to stuffed peppers, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a flavorful twist on classic dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy. With ingredients ranging from quinoa and sweet potatoes to black beans and broccoli, you’ll never get bored with the same old meals again. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your taste buds dance!