Ground chicken is a versatile and lean protein that can be used in many tasty dishes. It’s a great choice for those looking to eat healthier or save money on meals.

You can use it in place of ground beef or turkey in most recipes.

Ground chicken recipes offer quick and easy options for nourishing meals. From burgers and meatballs to stir-fries and enchiladas, there are many ways to cook with this ingredient.

You can make spicy Buffalo-style sloppy joes or Asian-inspired lettuce wraps. With so many choices, you’re sure to find a new favorite dish to add to your menu rotation.

1. Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a tasty dish you can make with ground chicken. It’s packed with flavor from garlic, chilies, and fresh basil.

To make it, you’ll stir-fry the ground chicken with minced garlic and sliced chilies. Add a sauce made of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a bit of sugar for balance.

The key ingredient is fresh basil, added at the end to keep its aroma. Thai basil is best, but you can use Italian basil if that’s what you have.

You can adjust the spice level by changing the number of chilies. Serve this dish over rice for a quick and satisfying meal.

2. Ground Chicken Tacos

Ground chicken tacos are a quick and delicious weeknight dinner option. You can have them ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings.

To make the taco filling, brown ground chicken in a skillet. Add garlic, onion, and bell pepper for extra flavor and texture.

Season the meat with homemade taco seasoning for the best taste. You can adjust the spices to your liking.

For juicier tacos, use ground chicken with at least 93% lean content. Ground chicken thighs work well too.

Serve your tacos with your favorite toppings. Try lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. You can also add avocado or salsa for more flavor.

3. Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Chicken lettuce wraps are a tasty and light meal option. You can make them easily with ground chicken and a few simple ingredients.

Cook ground chicken in a skillet until it’s no longer pink. Add diced onions, garlic, and ginger for flavor.

Mix in some hoisin sauce and soy sauce to give the chicken a savory taste. For extra crunch, toss in water chestnuts.

Serve the chicken mixture in lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce or bibb lettuce works well for wrapping.

You can customize your wraps with different sauces. Try sweet chili sauce for a Thai-inspired version. Add sriracha if you like it spicy.

4. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a tasty twist on classic buffalo wings. You can make them easily with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices.

Mix ground chicken with panko, diced celery, and chives. Add an egg, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small balls.

Bake the meatballs in a 400°F oven until cooked through. Toss them in buffalo sauce for that signature spicy kick.

Serve these meatballs as a game day snack or weeknight dinner. Pair them with a cool ranch dip or cucumber salad to balance the heat.

5. Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Chicken and spinach stuffed shells make a tasty and filling meal. To make them, cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions.

Mix cooked ground chicken, thawed frozen spinach, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella for the filling. Add some garlic powder and salt for extra flavor.

Stuff each shell with the chicken and spinach mixture. Place them in a baking dish and top with tomato pasta sauce or Alfredo sauce.

Bake the stuffed shells at 350°F for about 40 minutes until hot and bubbly. Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

This dish combines protein, veggies, and pasta in one satisfying meal. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it for busy weeknights.

6. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a tasty and comforting dish. You can make it easily with ground chicken instead of whole pieces.

Start by cooking the ground chicken in a pot. Add chopped celery, carrots, and onions. Stir in garlic and seasonings like Italian herbs.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add orzo pasta and simmer until tender. Finish the soup with fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor.

You can add spinach or parsley at the end for extra nutrition. This soup is perfect for cold days or when you need a quick meal.

7. Sicilian Chicken Meatball Soup

Sicilian Chicken Meatball Soup is a tasty dish that combines Italian flavors with ground chicken. You’ll start by making small meatballs from ground chicken, breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese.

Next, you’ll create a flavorful broth with vegetables like carrots, celery, and leeks. Add tomatoes and chicken stock to form the base of the soup.

Simmer the meatballs in the broth until they’re cooked through. Some recipes include pasta or potatoes for extra heartiness.

This soup is perfect for cold days or when you want a comforting meal. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices.

8. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

Teriyaki chicken bowls are a tasty meal you can make in just 30 minutes. You’ll use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts for this quick version.

Mix soy sauce, honey, and ginger to make the teriyaki sauce. Cook the ground chicken in a pan, then add the sauce and let it simmer.

While the chicken cooks, steam some broccoli and carrots. Serve the chicken and veggies over rice in bowls.

Top with green onions for extra flavor. These bowls are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something yummy and fast.

9. Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Chicken Parmesan Meatballs combine the flavors of a classic Italian dish with a fun twist. You’ll love these tasty bites that are easy to make and packed with flavor.

To make them, mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and herbs like basil and oregano. Roll the mixture into small balls and cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven.

Serve these meatballs with marinara sauce and extra Parmesan cheese on top. They’re great on their own as an appetizer or paired with pasta for a filling meal.

This recipe is a good way to use ground chicken and add variety to your menu. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike.

10. Chicken Cobb Salad

Chicken Cobb Salad is a tasty and filling meal. You can make it with grilled or roasted chicken breast.

Start by cooking your chicken until it reaches 165°F inside. While it cools, prepare the other ingredients.

Chop lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and hard-boiled eggs. Cook and crumble some bacon.

Arrange the ingredients in rows on a large plate or bowl. Put the chicken pieces on top.

Add blue cheese crumbles if you like. Drizzle with your favorite dressing.

This salad is easy to customize. You can add or remove ingredients based on what you have on hand.

11. Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs

Sweet and sour chicken meatballs are a tasty twist on the classic dish. You’ll love this flavorful combination of lean ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

To make the meatballs, mix ground chicken with finely chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Shape the mixture into small balls and cook them in a skillet until golden brown.

The sauce is the star of this recipe. Combine pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and a tangy sweet and sour sauce. Pour this mixture over the cooked meatballs.

You can serve these meatballs over rice for a complete meal. They’re perfect for dinner or as an appetizer at parties. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this fun take on sweet and sour chicken.

12. Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This tasty dish brings the flavors of enchiladas into an easy-to-make casserole. You’ll layer tortillas, shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and cheese in a baking dish.

Mix the chicken with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for extra flavor. Pour red enchilada sauce between the layers to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Top it all with lots of cheese before baking. The result is a gooey, cheesy meal that’s sure to please. You can add beans or veggies to make it even more filling.

Bake until bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool a bit before serving. This casserole is great for feeding a crowd or for leftovers.

13. Zucchini Chicken Burgers

Zucchini chicken burgers are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. You’ll love how the zucchini adds moisture and nutrition to these patties.

To make them, mix ground chicken with grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Form the mixture into patties and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.

For extra flavor, try adding minced garlic, herbs, or spices to the burger mix. You can also top your burgers with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.

These burgers are great for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. Serve them on buns or over salad for a lighter meal.

14. Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken piccata pasta combines the zesty flavors of chicken piccata with comforting pasta. You’ll love this tasty dish that’s easy to make at home.

Start by cooking your pasta – angel hair or spaghetti work well. While it cooks, prepare the chicken piccata sauce.

Sauté chicken in butter and oil. Add garlic, lemon juice, capers, and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer and thicken.

Toss the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce. Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan cheese before serving.

For a creamier version, you can add some heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce. This dish is sure to become a family favorite.

15. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Chicken and broccoli stir fry is a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in about 20 minutes. It’s a great way to use ground chicken for a change of pace from typical stir fry recipes.

Start by cooking the ground chicken in a large skillet or wok. Add broccoli florets and other veggies like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers if you like.

For the sauce, mix chicken broth, soy sauce, and a bit of cornstarch. Pour it over the chicken and veggies, then cook until the sauce thickens.

This dish is filling yet light. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli. Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

16. Ground Chicken Chili

Ground chicken chili is a tasty and lean alternative to traditional beef chili. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes.

To make it, start by sautéing onions and peppers in oil. Add garlic and ground chicken, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Mix in tomato paste and spices like chili powder, oregano, and coriander.

Pour in broth, canned tomatoes, and beans. Pinto and black beans work well, but you can use any type you like. Simmer the chili until it thickens.

You can customize your chili by adding corn, zucchini, or other veggies. Serve it with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra flavor.

17. Greek Chicken Meatballs

Greek chicken meatballs are a tasty and simple dish you can make in about 30 minutes. They use ground chicken mixed with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a fresh Mediterranean flavor.

To make them, shape the seasoned chicken mixture into small balls. Place them on a greased baking sheet and cook in the oven until they reach 165°F inside.

These meatballs are great for meal prep and can be served in many ways. Try them with tzatziki sauce, in a pita, or over a Greek salad. They’re a healthy choice that both kids and adults will enjoy.

18. Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich

You can make a tasty Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich using ground chicken. This Vietnamese-inspired dish combines flavorful chicken with crisp pickled veggies.

Start by mixing ground chicken with garlic, lemongrass, and spices. Shape the mixture into small patties and cook them in a skillet until browned.

For the pickled veggies, slice carrots, daikon, and cucumbers thinly. Soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least an hour.

To assemble, split a baguette and spread mayo on both sides. Add the chicken patties, pickled veggies, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. This sandwich is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors.

19. Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Honey garlic chicken skewers are a tasty and easy meal option. You can make them on the grill or in the oven.

To prepare, cut chicken into cubes and marinate it in a mix of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. Thread the chicken onto skewers and cook until done.

These skewers have a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The honey creates a sticky glaze while the garlic adds depth.

Serve your skewers with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re great for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners.

20. Ground Chicken Lasagna

Ground chicken lasagna is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You’ll love this lighter version that uses ground chicken instead of beef.

To make it, brown ground chicken in a skillet. Add garlic and marinara sauce for flavor.

Layer the meat sauce with lasagna noodles and cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella.

For extra flavor, try adding veggies like spinach or sliced olives between the layers. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This chicken lasagna is filling and delicious. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want leftovers for lunch the next day.

21. Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas

Chipotle chicken quesadillas are a tasty and quick meal option. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by cooking diced onions in olive oil until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Mix shredded chicken with chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor. Spread this mixture on a tortilla and top with cheese.

Cook the quesadilla in a pan until the cheese melts and the tortilla turns golden brown. Serve with diced avocado and sour cream on the side.

These quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less of the chipotle peppers.

22. Asian Chicken Slaw

Asian Chicken Slaw is a tasty and refreshing dish that mixes ground chicken with crunchy vegetables. You can make it easily with ingredients you probably have at home.

Start by cooking the ground chicken in a pan with some sesame oil and soy sauce. Let it cool while you prepare the vegetables.

For the slaw, use a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Add some cilantro for extra flavor. You can also toss in some chopped peanuts for crunch.

Make a simple dressing with rice vinegar, ginger, and a touch of honey. Mix everything together and serve it cold. This slaw is perfect for hot days or as a light lunch.

23. Chicken Marsala Stuffed Mushrooms

This tasty appetizer combines ground chicken with the flavors of classic Chicken Marsala. You’ll love these bite-sized treats filled with savory goodness.

Start by mixing ground chicken with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and herbs. Stuff this mixture into large mushroom caps.

Cook the stuffed mushrooms in a pan with Marsala wine, butter, and sliced mushrooms. The sauce will become rich and flavorful as it simmers.

When done, the mushrooms will be tender and the chicken filling cooked through. Serve these Chicken Marsala Stuffed Mushrooms warm as an impressive starter for your next dinner party.

24. Sesame Chicken Noodles

Sesame chicken noodles are a tasty and quick meal you can make in about 20 minutes. You’ll mix cooked noodles with ground chicken and a savory sauce.

To make the sauce, blend sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Cook the ground chicken in a pan until it’s no longer pink. Add the sauce and stir well.

Toss the chicken mixture with cooked spaghetti or Asian-style noodles. For extra flavor and crunch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top. You can also add veggies like carrots or snap peas if you want.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal fast.

25. Barbecue Chicken Pizza

Barbecue chicken pizza is a tasty twist on classic pizza. You can make it with ground chicken for a unique flavor.

Cook the ground chicken with barbecue sauce until it’s well-coated.

Spread pizza dough with a thin layer of barbecue sauce. Top with the cooked ground chicken, sliced red onions, and mozzarella cheese. You can add other toppings like bell peppers or pineapple if you like.

Bake the pizza until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. The result is a sweet and savory pizza that’s perfect for dinner or parties. It’s an easy way to use ground chicken in a fun, family-friendly meal.

26. Baked Chicken Alfredo

Baked Chicken Alfredo is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and pasta. To make it, you’ll need chicken breasts, Alfredo sauce, pasta, and cheese.

Start by cooking the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside. Cut it into small cubes. Cook the pasta according to package directions.

Mix the cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

This easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights. You can use jarred sauce to save time. Serve with a side salad for a complete dinner.

27. Ground Chicken Pot Pie

Ground chicken pot pie is a cozy twist on the classic comfort food. You’ll love this hearty dish packed with flavor and nutrients.

Start by cooking ground chicken with onions, carrots, and celery. Add flour to thicken the mixture, then pour in chicken broth and cream. Stir in frozen peas for extra veggies.

Pour the filling into a pie crust and top with another crust. Bake until golden brown and bubbly. The flaky crust pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken filling.

This meal is great for family dinners or potlucks. You can make it ahead and reheat for busy weeknights too. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

28. Chicken and Avocado Salad

This tasty salad combines shredded chicken with creamy avocado for a healthy, satisfying meal. You’ll need cooked chicken, ripe avocados, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Mix the chicken with diced avocado, chopped onion, and halved tomatoes. Add cilantro for a fresh herbal note.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and mustard. Pour it over the salad and toss gently to coat.

This salad is quick to make and perfect for lunch or a light dinner. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the avocado. Serve it on its own or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

29. Mediterranean Chicken Bowls

Mediterranean chicken bowls are a tasty and healthy meal option. You can make them with ground chicken for a quick and easy dinner.

Start by cooking the ground chicken with olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean spices like oregano and thyme. Add some lemon juice for extra flavor.

Prepare a base of quinoa or bulgur wheat. Chop fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.

Assemble your bowls by layering the grains, cooked chicken, and fresh veggies. Top with crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives.

For a finishing touch, drizzle with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. These bowls are perfect for meal prep and can be customized to your liking.

30. Chicken Florentine Stuffed Peppers

Chicken Florentine stuffed peppers are a tasty and healthy meal option. You’ll love the mix of shredded chicken, spinach, and cheese stuffed into bell peppers.

This dish is low in carbs and gluten-free. It’s packed with protein and vitamins from the chicken and vegetables.

To make these, you’ll need bell peppers, chicken, spinach, herbs, spices, and cheese. Some recipes add white wine and chicken stock for extra flavor.

You can use ground chicken instead of shredded for a different texture. Add black beans, corn, or cauliflower rice to boost the nutrition even more.

31. Mexican Chicken Skillet

This quick and tasty meal brings Mexican flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. You’ll need ground chicken, onions, garlic, and a blend of Mexican spices.

Add some black beans and cherry tomatoes to boost nutrition and taste. Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup.

Top your dish with cheese, avocado, sour cream, or diced tomatoes. This versatile recipe works great for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers with friends.

You can swap ground turkey for chicken if you prefer. Serve with warm tortillas or over rice for a filling meal.

32. Curried Chicken Salad

Curried chicken salad is a tasty twist on the classic dish. You’ll love the blend of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic curry spices.

To make it, start by cooking chicken breasts in the oven. Rub them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting at 350°F for about 35-40 minutes.

Once cooled, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix it with mayonnaise, yogurt, and curry powder for a creamy dressing. Add raisins, almonds, and celery for extra flavor and crunch.

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your curried chicken salad on its own or as a sandwich filling.

33. Ground Chicken Nachos

Ground chicken nachos are a tasty twist on the classic appetizer. They’re quick to make and perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Start by cooking ground chicken with taco seasoning. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet and top with the seasoned chicken.

Add shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and onions. Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts.

For extra flavor, try adding black beans, corn, or jalapeños. Serve with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream on the side.

You can customize these nachos to your liking. Use different cheeses or add your favorite toppings for a unique twist.

34. Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tenders offer a tasty twist on classic chicken strips. You can make these at home for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Start by coating chicken tenders in flour, then dip them in ranch dressing. Next, roll them in a mixture of breadcrumbs and shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake the tenders in the oven until golden brown and crispy. For a quicker option, try cooking them in an air fryer.

Serve these flavorful tenders with extra ranch dressing or honey mustard sauce for dipping. They make a great main dish or appetizer for parties.

35. Chicken Souvlaki Wraps

Chicken souvlaki wraps are a tasty Greek-inspired meal you can make at home. Start by marinating cubed chicken breast in a mix of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and spices.

Grill or pan-cook the marinated chicken until it’s cooked through and slightly charred. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side.

While the chicken cooks, prepare a quick tzatziki sauce with Greek yogurt, cucumber, herbs, and lemon juice. Warm up some pita bread or tortillas for wrapping.

Assemble your wraps by adding the cooked chicken, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. Roll it up and enjoy your homemade chicken souvlaki wrap.

36. Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cajun chicken pasta is a tasty dish that combines spicy chicken with creamy sauce and pasta. You can make it with ground chicken for a quick and easy meal.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions.

While it’s cooking, season ground chicken with Cajun spices and cook it in a skillet.

Add vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

Once the chicken is cooked, make a creamy sauce using heavy cream and cheese.

Mix the cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce together. You can adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.

This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be ready in about 30 minutes. It’s filling, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite.

Health Benefits of Ground Chicken

Ground chicken offers several health advantages. It’s a lean protein source packed with essential nutrients that can support your overall well-being.

Nutritional Value

Ground chicken provides key vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in B vitamins, especially niacin, which helps your body turn food into energy.

You’ll also get a good dose of selenium, an antioxidant that supports your immune system.

Ground chicken is high in protein. A 3-ounce serving gives you about 21 grams of protein. This nutrient is crucial for building and repairing tissues in your body.

You’ll also get important amino acids from ground chicken. These building blocks of protein play vital roles in many bodily functions.

Low-Fat Content

Ground chicken is a lean meat option. It has less fat than many other protein sources, making it a smart choice for weight management.

A 3-ounce serving of ground chicken breast contains only about 3 grams of fat. This low fat content can help you reduce your calorie intake without sacrificing protein.

Choosing ground chicken over fattier meats can lower your saturated fat intake. This may help improve your heart health and cholesterol levels over time.

The low-fat nature of ground chicken also makes it easy to digest. This can be helpful if you have a sensitive stomach or are recovering from illness.

Cooking Tips for Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is a versatile protein that needs proper handling and cooking techniques. Here are some key tips to help you get the best results when preparing ground chicken dishes.

Selecting Quality Ground Chicken

Look for ground chicken that’s pink in color without any gray spots. Check the package for a fresh smell and no excess liquid. Buy from a trusted source and check the expiration date.

Choose ground chicken with a fat content of 5-10% for the best flavor and texture. Leaner options may dry out more easily when cooked.

Consider grinding your own chicken at home using boneless, skinless thighs or breasts. This gives you more control over the quality and freshness.

Proper Storage Techniques

Keep ground chicken in the coldest part of your fridge, usually at the back.

Use within 1-2 days of purchase for best quality.

If you’re not using it right away, freeze ground chicken.

Place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeeze out excess air, and label with the date. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Thaw frozen ground chicken in the fridge overnight.

Never leave it out at room temperature to thaw, as this can lead to bacterial growth.

Use thawed ground chicken within 24 hours.

Don’t refreeze raw ground chicken that has been thawed.