Ground chicken is a versatile and lean protein that can be used in many tasty recipes.

It’s a great option for those looking to eat healthier or add variety to their meals.

You can use ground chicken in place of other ground meats in most dishes for a lighter twist on classic recipes.

There are many ways to cook with ground chicken.

You can make burgers, meatballs, stir-fries, soups, and more.

Ground chicken takes on flavors well, so you can use different seasonings and sauces to create meals inspired by cuisines from around the world.

With so many options, you’re sure to find new favorite ground chicken recipes to add to your regular meal rotation.

1. Spicy Chicken Stir Fry

Spicy chicken stir fry is a quick and tasty meal you can make with ground chicken.

Start by mixing your sauce ingredients in a bowl.

Cook the ground chicken in a hot skillet until browned.

Add onions and other veggies to the pan.

Cook them until they’re crisp-tender. Be careful not to overcook.

Toss in some cashews for crunch.

Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the sauce.

Stir everything together and let it simmer briefly.

The result is a flavorful, spicy dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes.

Serve your stir fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

2. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a tasty twist on classic buffalo wings.

You can make them easily at home with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices.

Mix ground chicken with panko, egg, and seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder.

Form the mixture into small balls and bake them in the oven until cooked through.

Toss the meatballs in buffalo sauce for that signature spicy kick.

Serve them as an appetizer or main dish. They’re great for game day snacks or weeknight dinners.

Pair these meatballs with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for a cool contrast to the heat.

You can also make them ahead and reheat them when needed.

3. Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps offer a light and flavorful meal option. You’ll love the mix of savory ground chicken and crunchy veggies.

To make these wraps, cook ground chicken with garlic and onions.

Add carrots, cabbage, and green onions for extra crunch and flavor.

The sauce is key.

Combine sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and fish sauce for an authentic Thai taste. Some recipes include a peanut sauce for added richness.

Serve the chicken mixture in lettuce leaves.

Top with cucumber, shredded carrots, and cilantro. Sprinkle sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

These wraps are perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer. They’re healthy, easy to make, and bursting with Thai-inspired flavors.

4. Chicken Parmesan Meatloaf

This tasty dish combines two favorites – chicken parmesan and meatloaf. To make it, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, garlic, and herbs.

Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

For extra flavor, drizzle olive oil on top before baking.

You can also sprinkle more cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy crust.

Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, making it easier to slice and serve.

5. Ground Chicken Tacos

Ground chicken tacos are a tasty and easy weeknight dinner option. To make them, start by sautéing diced onions in a pan until soft.

Add ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce.

Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Warm your tortillas while the chicken cooks.

Serve the seasoned ground chicken in tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Try shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.

These tacos come together quickly in about 15-20 minutes. They’re a great way to use ground chicken for a lighter twist on traditional beef tacos.

6. Chicken Piccata Burgers

Chicken piccata burgers bring the flavors of the classic Italian dish to a handheld meal. You’ll mix ground chicken with capers and parsley to form patties.

For extra crunch, coat the burgers in flour, egg, and panko crumbs before cooking.

Grill or fry them until they reach 160°F inside.

To complete the piccata experience, top your burgers with a quick sauce.

Mix lemon juice and zest with olive oil mayo for a tangy spread. You can also add spinach and onion to the patties for more flavor and texture.

7. Asian Chicken Meatball Soup

This soup brings together flavors from across Asia in a comforting bowl. You’ll start by making small chicken meatballs seasoned with ginger, garlic, and scallions.

The broth is key to this dish.

Simmer chicken stock with aromatic ingredients like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves for depth.

Add vegetables like bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms for texture and nutrition.

Drop the raw meatballs directly into the simmering broth to cook.

They’ll absorb the flavors as they poach. Finish with a squeeze of lime and fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil.

This soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a light yet satisfying meal.

8. Chicken Chimichangas

Chicken chimichangas are a tasty Mexican-inspired dish you can easily make at home. Start by mixing cooked, chopped chicken with refried beans, cheese, salsa, and spices in a bowl.

Place about 1/2 cup of this mixture in the center of a flour tortilla.

Fold the sides over and roll it up tightly.

To cook, you have two options.

You can pan-fry them in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Or you can bake them in the oven for a healthier version.

Serve your chimichangas hot, topped with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa. They make a great meal for lunch or dinner.

9. Greek Chicken Meatball Bowls

Greek Chicken Meatball Bowls offer a tasty twist on traditional meatballs. You’ll mix ground chicken with feta cheese, herbs, and spices to create flavorful meatballs.

Bake the meatballs in a hot oven until cooked through. While they’re baking, prepare a simple Greek salad with cucumbers and tomatoes.

Serve the meatballs over rice and top with the salad. Add a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra flavor. This dish combines protein, veggies, and grains for a balanced meal.

These bowls are great for meal prep. You can make a big batch of meatballs and store them for easy weeknight dinners.

10. Chicken and Spinach Cannelloni

Chicken and spinach cannelloni is a tasty dish that combines ground chicken, spinach, and cheese. To make it, you’ll cook ground chicken with garlic and onions in a skillet.

Add spinach and let it wilt. Mix in ricotta cheese and seasonings like salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Spread this filling onto cooked pasta sheets and roll them up.

Place the cannelloni in a baking dish with pasta sauce on the bottom. Top with more sauce and cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly.

This meal is filling and full of flavor. It’s a great way to use ground chicken in a new and exciting recipe.

11. Sriracha Chicken Skewers

Sriracha chicken skewers are a tasty twist on ground chicken. Mix ground chicken with sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, and lime juice for a spicy-sweet flavor.

Shape the mixture into small oval patties and thread them onto skewers.

You can add veggies like bell peppers or onions between the meat for extra color and nutrition.

Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.

You can also bake them in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Brush extra sauce on the skewers while cooking for a glossy finish. Serve hot with rice or a fresh salad for a quick and delicious meal.

12. Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers are a tasty twist on classic Italian flavors. You’ll start by roasting bell peppers in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes.

While the peppers cook, prepare the filling. Mix shredded chicken with a creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Add some cooked pasta like orzo for extra texture.

Stuff the roasted peppers with your chicken Alfredo mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Bake until the cheese melts and the peppers are tender.

This dish combines the rich taste of Alfredo with the freshness of bell peppers. It’s a great way to use ground chicken in a new and exciting recipe.

13. Italian Chicken Sausage

Italian chicken sausage is a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. You can make it at home using ground chicken and Italian seasonings.

Mix ground chicken with olive oil, garlic, fennel seeds, paprika, and dried herbs like oregano and basil. Add a touch of maple syrup for sweetness if you like.

Cook the sausage in a hot skillet until it’s browned and cooked through. It usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

You can shape the mixture into patties or leave it loose for recipes. Italian chicken sausage works great in pasta dishes, on pizza, or served with peppers and onions.

14. Chicken and Basil Stir Fry

This quick and tasty dish brings Thai flavors to your kitchen in just 15 minutes. You’ll need ground chicken, Thai basil, garlic, chili, and a few sauces.

Start by heating oil in a wok or large skillet. Add minced garlic and chili, then toss in the ground chicken.

Cook it for about 2 minutes, breaking it into small pieces.

Next, add your sauce mix of soy sauce, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar.

Stir-fry for another minute until the sauce thickens. Toss in fresh Thai basil leaves at the end, letting them wilt slightly.

Serve your stir-fry hot over steamed jasmine rice for a satisfying meal.

15. Mango Chicken Sliders

Mango chicken sliders offer a tasty twist on classic pulled chicken sandwiches. You can make these sliders by cooking ground chicken with mango-based sauces or adding mango salsa as a topping.

For a simple version, mix ground chicken with mango salsa ingredients like diced mango, lime juice, and fresh herbs. Form small patties and grill or pan-fry them.

To create a saucier slider, simmer ground chicken in a mixture of mango puree, barbecue sauce, and spices until tender. Serve the chicken on small buns with extra sauce.

For added flavor, try topping your sliders with a mango slaw. Mix shredded cabbage with diced mango, cilantro, and a light dressing for a crunchy contrast.

16. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Teriyaki chicken bowls are a tasty way to use ground chicken. You can make this dish quickly for a satisfying meal.

Start by cooking the ground chicken in a skillet. Add onion powder and garlic for extra flavor.

Once the chicken is no longer pink, mix in some veggies like broccoli and carrots.

For the sauce, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and other seasonings. Pour this over the chicken and vegetables.

Serve your teriyaki chicken over rice for a complete meal.

You can customize your bowl with toppings like pineapple, cucumber, or edamame. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice crunch.

17. Chicken Ragu Pasta

Chicken ragu pasta is a tasty and filling dish. You can make it in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

To start, cook your pasta in salted water. While it boils, make the ragu sauce.

Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.

Next, add tomatoes and some broth to the pan. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens. You can add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.

When the pasta is done, mix it with the ragu sauce.

Add a bit of pasta water if needed to get the right consistency. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty meal.

18. Chicken Caesar Wraps

Chicken Caesar wraps are a tasty and portable twist on the classic salad. You’ll need cooked chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing.

Start by chopping the lettuce and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix them in a bowl with the cheese, croutons, and dressing.

Warm a large tortilla and place a generous scoop of the mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.

For extra flavor, try seasoning your chicken with spices like chili powder or garlic before cooking. You can also add tomatoes or bacon for more variety.

19. Curried Chicken Patties

Curried chicken patties bring a tasty twist to your burger nights. Mix ground chicken with curry powder, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful base. Add chopped green onions for extra zest.

Shape the mixture into patties and cook them on a grill or in a pan.

For outdoor grilling, preheat to 375°F and use foil to prevent sticking. If pan-frying, use medium heat and a bit of oil.

20. Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This tasty casserole brings the flavors of chicken enchiladas to your table in an easy-to-make dish.

You’ll layer tortillas with shredded chicken, cheese, and a creamy enchilada sauce. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.

Mix salsa verde with sour cream for a quick sauce. Spread some sauce in a baking dish, then add layers of tortillas, cooked chicken, beans, and cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with tortillas on top.

Pour the remaining sauce over everything and sprinkle with more cheese. Cover with foil and bake for about 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for a few more minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool slightly before serving. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

21. Chicken and Rice Burritos

Chicken and rice burritos are a tasty and filling meal you can make easily at home.

Start by cooking diced chicken in a skillet with onions and seasonings. Add salsa, tomatoes, and broth to the skillet. Let it simmer until the chicken is fully cooked.

Mix in cooked rice and cheese. Warm up some tortillas and spoon the chicken and rice mixture into the center. Add beans, corn, or other toppings you like.

Roll up the burritos tightly. You can eat them as is or toast them in a pan for a crispy exterior. These burritos are great for quick dinners or meal prep.

22. Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

This dish brings the flavors of egg rolls to your plate without the deep-frying. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make.

Start by browning ground chicken in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and onions, cooking until they’re soft. Next, toss in shredded cabbage and carrots.

These veggies give the dish its classic egg roll taste and crunch. Season with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sesame oil. These ingredients create that familiar Asian-inspired flavor profile.

Cook everything together until the veggies are tender but still crisp. Serve hot and enjoy your deconstructed egg roll in a bowl!

23. Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Buffalo chicken pizza combines two favorite foods into one delicious meal. You can make this tasty pizza at home with just a few ingredients.

Start with pizza dough and spread it on a pan or stone. Top it with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing for the base. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and cooked ground chicken tossed in more buffalo sauce. Sprinkle on some red onions and banana peppers for extra flavor and crunch.

Bake the pizza until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. After baking, you can drizzle on extra buffalo sauce or blue cheese dressing if you like.

This spicy, cheesy pizza is sure to be a hit at your next meal or party.

24. Chicken Bolognese

Chicken Bolognese is a tasty twist on the classic Italian meat sauce. You can make it easily at home with ground chicken instead of beef.

Start by cooking garlic and onions in oil. Add ground chicken and break it up as it cooks. Season with salt and Italian herbs. Once the chicken is browned, pour in some wine to add flavor.

Next, add tomato sauce and let it simmer. For extra richness, stir in a bit of milk at the end. Serve your homemade Chicken Bolognese over pasta for a comforting meal.

It’s lighter than beef but still packed with flavor.

25. Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms

Chicken stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer or light meal. You’ll need mushroom caps, ground chicken, and some flavorful additions.

Start by removing the stems from your mushrooms. Chop the stems finely and mix them with ground chicken, cheese, herbs, and spices. Fill each mushroom cap with the chicken mixture.

Place them on a baking sheet and cook in a preheated oven until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is cooked through. These stuffed mushrooms are versatile.

You can experiment with different cheeses or add ingredients like chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to change up the flavor.

26. Thai Basil Chicken

Thai Basil Chicken, also known as Pad Krapow Gai, is a quick and flavorful dish. You can make it with ground chicken in just 15 minutes.

The key ingredients are ground chicken, Thai basil, garlic, shallots, and chili peppers. You’ll stir-fry these in a hot wok or large frying pan.

The sauce typically includes soy sauce, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar. This creates a perfect balance of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors. Serve your Thai Basil Chicken over rice for a satisfying meal.

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chili peppers to suit your taste.

27. Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs

Sweet and sour chicken meatballs are a tasty twist on classic meatballs. You can make them using ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, and seasonings.

Mix the ingredients in a bowl and shape them into small balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet and cook in a preheated oven at 450°F.

While the meatballs bake, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and carrots in a pan. Add your favorite sweet and sour sauce ingredients. Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sauce.

This dish combines tangy and sweet flavors with juicy chicken meatballs for a crowd-pleasing meal.

28. Chicken Kofta Kebabs

Chicken kofta kebabs are a tasty Middle Eastern dish you can easily make at home. You’ll mix ground chicken with spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon for great flavor.

Add grated onion, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint to boost the taste. For the right texture, include a small piece of soaked bread or some breadcrumbs.

Shape the mixture into ovals and thread them onto skewers. Grill the kebabs until they’re cooked through but still juicy. Don’t overcook or they may dry out.

Serve your chicken kofta kebabs with pita bread and a fresh salad for a delicious meal. You can also try different herbs or spices to change up the flavors.

29. Jamaican Jerk Chicken Sliders

These sliders pack a flavorful punch with ground chicken seasoned with zesty jerk spices. Mix the chicken with green onions, thyme, allspice, and other jerk seasonings.

Form small patties and grill or pan-fry until cooked through. Serve on mini buns with a slice of pineapple and some cooling coleslaw.

For extra flavor, brush the buns with garlic herb butter before toasting. Top your sliders with a slice of muenster cheese for a creamy contrast to the spicy jerk seasoning.

These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties or as a fun weeknight dinner. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.

30. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

This quick and tasty dish combines ground chicken with crisp broccoli florets. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook it in a hot skillet until browned.

Remove the chicken and set it aside. Add oil to the pan and stir-fry the broccoli until bright green and crisp.

Return the chicken to the pan and mix with the broccoli. Pour in a simple stir-fry sauce made from soy sauce, chicken stock, and cornstarch.

Cook everything together for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve your chicken and broccoli stir fry over rice for a satisfying meal.

31. Chicken Marsala Meatballs

Chicken Marsala Meatballs blend the classic flavors of Marsala wine with tender ground chicken. You’ll mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, milk, and seasonings to form small meatballs.

Cook the meatballs in a skillet until golden brown. Then, create a sauce with Marsala wine, broth, and mushrooms. The meatballs simmer in this rich sauce, soaking up all the flavors.

These meatballs are perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread. They’re a tasty twist on traditional Chicken Marsala that’s sure to please your taste buds.

32. Chicken Zucchini Boats

Chicken zucchini boats are a tasty low-carb meal. You start by cutting zucchinis in half and scooping out the middle to create boats.

Brown ground chicken in a skillet. Add garlic, onions, and your favorite pasta sauce to the chicken for flavor.

Spoon the chicken mixture into the zucchini boats. Top with cheese if you like. Bake the boats in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes until the zucchini is tender.

You can make these ahead and freeze them for later. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

33. BBQ Chicken Flatbread

BBQ chicken flatbread is a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much fuss.

To make this dish, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Spread BBQ sauce on flatbread crusts and top with cooked ground chicken, cheese, and any veggies you like.

Bake the flatbreads for 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges get crispy. For extra flavor, drizzle more BBQ sauce on top and sprinkle with green onions or cilantro before serving.

This recipe is easy to customize. You can use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version or swap the chicken for roasted chickpeas to make it vegetarian.

34. Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas

Chipotle chicken quesadillas are a tasty twist on a classic dish. You’ll love the smoky, spicy flavor of chipotle peppers mixed with juicy chicken and melted cheese.

To make these quesadillas, start by cooking diced onions and garlic in a pan. Add chipotle peppers and diced tomatoes, cooking until the mixture thickens.

Stir in cooked, shredded chicken and spices. Spread this filling on a tortilla, top with cheese, and add another tortilla.

Cook in a skillet until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns golden brown. Serve your quesadillas hot, cut into wedges. They’re great on their own or with sides like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

35. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

This comforting soup combines tender ground chicken with zesty lemon and orzo pasta. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft.

Add minced garlic and cook briefly. Stir in the ground chicken and cook until no longer pink. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Add orzo pasta and cook for about 10 minutes until tender. Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest.

Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. This bright and satisfying soup is perfect for chilly days.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Chicken

Ground chicken offers many health advantages. It’s a lean protein that packs important nutrients into your meals.

Low-Fat Protein Source

Ground chicken is an excellent choice for protein without extra fat. It has less saturated fat than beef or pork.

A 3-ounce serving gives you about 21 grams of protein. This helps build and repair muscles. Ground chicken is also lower in calories.

This makes it great for weight management. You can enjoy tasty meals while watching your calorie intake. Choose the leanest options when buying.

Look for packages labeled “99% fat-free” or “extra lean” for the best results.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Ground chicken provides key vitamins and minerals your body needs. It’s a good source of B vitamins, especially niacin and vitamin B6. These help your body turn food into energy.

You’ll also get iron from ground chicken. Iron is crucial for carrying oxygen in your blood. This keeps you feeling energized throughout the day.

Ground chicken contains selenium too. This mineral acts as an antioxidant in your body. It helps protect your cells from damage. Zinc is another important mineral found in ground chicken.

It supports your immune system and helps with wound healing.

Cooking Tips for Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is a versatile ingredient, but it requires careful handling. Choosing quality meat and using proper cooking methods will ensure tasty and safe dishes.

Choosing the Right Ground Chicken

Look for fresh, pink ground chicken at the store. Check the expiration date and avoid packages with excess liquid.

For the best flavor, pick a mix of white and dark meat. This blend gives more moisture and taste than pure breast meat. If possible, ask the butcher to grind chicken for you on the spot.

This ensures freshness and lets you pick the exact cuts you want. Store ground chicken in the coldest part of your fridge.

Use it within 1-2 days of buying. For longer storage, freeze it right away. Divide it into meal-sized portions before freezing. This makes thawing easier later.

Proper Cooking Techniques

Cook ground chicken to an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer to check.

Don’t rely on color alone, as chicken can still be pink when fully cooked.

Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. This helps it cook evenly.

Cook over medium heat to keep the chicken tender. High heat can make it tough.

Add oil to the pan before cooking. Ground chicken is lean and can stick easily.

Season well with salt, pepper, and herbs. Chicken takes on flavors nicely, so don’t be shy with spices.

For moist burgers or meatballs, mix in breadcrumbs and an egg. This helps bind the meat and keeps it juicy.