ground chicken recipe

10 Easy Ground Chicken Recipes for Healthy Weeknight Dinners

Introduction

Imagine coming home after a long day, only to find that cooking a nutritious, delicious dinner doesn’t have to be a chore. Ground Chicken Recipe is an ideal choice for creating healthy meals in minimal time. Its mild flavor is versatile enough to work with a wide range of recipes, from comforting classics to spicy, modern dishes. Plus, ground chicken is a lean protein option, keeping your meals light yet satisfying. These 10 easy ground chicken recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners, offering everything from tacos to stir-fries to cozy bowls that your whole family will love.

Why Ground Chicken Is Perfect for Quick, Healthy Meals

Ground chicken isn’t just versatile—it’s also quick-cooking and packed with protein, making it a convenient choice for busy nights. Here are a few reasons why it’s a great addition to your weekly meal rotation:

The Benefits of Cooking with Ground Chicken

  • Lean and Nutritious: Ground chicken contains less fat than ground beef or pork, making it a healthy protein source for those mindful of their diets.
  • Quick to Cook: With its fine texture, ground chicken cooks faster than many other proteins, which is perfect when you’re short on time.
  • Flavorful Base: Ground chicken’s mild taste absorbs spices and sauces, making it suitable for a range of dishes from spicy tacos to creamy pasta.

Rich in protein, B vitamins, and minerals, ground chicken is a wholesome option that aligns with your health goals while offering enough flexibility to suit many types of recipes.

1: Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

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Wraps

These wraps offer a light, fresh option for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The crisp lettuce paired with savory ground chicken is a winning combination.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 People
Calories 220 kcal

Notes

Ingredients
 
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Soy Sauce2 tbsp
Hoisin Sauce1 tbsp
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Water Chestnuts1/4 cup, chopped
Green Onions2 tbsp, chopped
Lettuce Leaves8-10
Instructions
    1. Sauté garlic and ground chicken in a skillet until fully browned.
    1. Add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and water chestnuts, cooking until combined.
    1. Serve in lettuce leaves, garnishing with green onions.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.
Keyword Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2: Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos

Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos

tacos

Swap out beef for ground chicken in these spicy tacos, and you’ll have a tasty, lighter version that’s perfect for taco night.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Taco Seasoning2 tbsp
Salsa1/2 cup
Corn Tortillas8
Toppings (cheese, avocado, lettuce)As desired
Instructions
  1. Cook ground chicken with taco seasoning until browned.
  2. Stir in salsa for added flavor.
  3. Serve in tortillas, adding your favorite toppings.
Tip: Customize with jalapeños, lime juice, or fresh cilantro for extra zest.
Keyword Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos

3: Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

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Extra vegetables

This easy stir-fry is a great way to use up Extra vegetables and create a nutritious, colorful meal in minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 People
Calories 300 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Mixed Vegetables2 cups
Soy Sauce2 tbsp
Sesame Oil1 tsp
Ginger, minced1 tsp
Green OnionsFor garnish
Instructions
  1. Brown ground chicken with ginger in a skillet.
  2. Add vegetables and cook until softened, stirring in soy sauce and sesame oil.
  3. Serve over rice or quinoa, topped with green onions.
Tip: Try using bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry.
Keyword Ground Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables

4: Ground Chicken Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Ground Chicken Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Meatballs

These lean, protein-packed meatballs make a comforting meal that’s easy enough for any weeknight.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Healthy
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Breadcrumbs1/2 cup
Parmesan Cheese1/4 cup
Egg1
Marinara Sauce1 cup
Instructions
  1. Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cheese, and egg, forming into small meatballs.
  2. Sear meatballs in a skillet until golden brown, then add marinara sauce and simmer.
Tip: Serve over pasta or with zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Keyword Ground Chicken Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

5: Ground Chicken and Veggie Stuffed Peppers

Ground Chicken and Veggie Stuffed Peppers

Veggie Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a tasty, low-carb meal option that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 320 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Bell Peppers4, halved
Onion, chopped1/2 cup
Tomato Sauce1/2 cup
Cheese1/4 cup, shredded
Instructions
  1. Sauté ground chicken and onions, then mix in tomato sauce.
  2. Fill each pepper half with the mixture and top with cheese.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Tip: Use different colored peppers for a vibrant, appealing presentation.
Keyword Ground Chicken and Veggie Stuffed Peppers

6: Asian Ground Chicken Bowls

Asian Ground Chicken Bowls

Asian Chicken

These flavorful bowls combine rice, vegetables, and a savory sauce for a quick, balanced meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Cooked Rice2 cups
Soy Sauce2 tbsp
Garlic, minced2 cloves
Mixed Veggies1 cup
Instructions
  1. Sauté garlic and chicken until browned.
  2. Add soy sauce and veggies, cooking until tender.
  3. Serve over rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Tip: Try topping with a soft-boiled egg for added protein and richness.
Keyword Asian Ground Chicken Bowls

7: Ground Chicken Zucchini Boats

Ground Chicken Zucchini Boats

Chicken Zucchini

For a low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, these zucchini boats are ideal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 270 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Zucchini4, halved and scooped
Marinara Sauce1/2 cup
Cheese1/4 cup, shredded
Instructions
  1. Brown ground chicken, then stir in marinara sauce.
  2. Fill zucchini halves with the mixture, topping with cheese.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Tip: Customize with Italian seasonings or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Keyword Ground Chicken Zucchini Boats

8: Ground Chicken Chili

Ground Chicken Chili

Chicken Chili

This hearty chili offers a lighter take on a cozy classic, perfect for cooler nights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine American
Servings 6 People
Calories 320 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Kidney Beans1 can
Crushed Tomatoes1 can
Onion, chopped1/2 cup
Chili Powder1 tbsp
Instructions
  1. Sauté onion and ground chicken until browned.
  2. Add beans, tomatoes, and chili powder; simmer for 20 minutes.
Tip: Serve with a sprinkle of cheese and chopped green onions.
Keyword Chicken Chili

9: Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Sloppy Joes

Enjoy a leaner version of this classic comfort food with ground chicken.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 lb
Tomato Sauce1/2 cup
Onion, chopped1/2 cup
BBQ Sauce2 tbsp
Whole-Grain Buns4
Instructions
  1. Brown ground chicken and onions, then stir in sauces.
  2. Serve on buns, adding lettuce or pickles if desired.
Tip: Use whole-grain buns for extra fiber and nutrients.
Keyword Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

10: Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed Mushrooms

These stuffed mushrooms are a tasty, nutrient-dense option that works as a light meal or appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course CHICHEN, Healthy
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 200 kcal

Notes

 
Ingredients
IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1/2 lb
Spinach, chopped1 cup
Large Mushrooms8
Parmesan Cheese1/4 cup
Garlic, minced1 clove
Instructions
  1. Brown ground chicken and garlic, adding spinach until wilted.
  2. Stuff mushroom caps with the mixture, topping with cheese.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Tip: For a richer flavor, sprinkle with a bit of mozzarella before baking.
Keyword Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Chicken Recipes

Can I freeze ground chicken recipes?


Yes! Most of these recipes can be frozen. Just cool completely, store in an airtight container, and reheat as needed.

Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?


Ground chicken is generally lower in fat than ground beef, making it a lighter option.

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground chicken?


Absolutely! Ground turkey has a similar flavor and texture and can be swapped in any of these recipes.

How long can I store cooked ground chicken in the fridge?


Cooked ground chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Enjoy Healthy, Easy Dinners All Week with Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is a versatile, lean protein that suits a wide range of dinner options, from hearty tacos to comforting chilis. With these 10 easy ground chicken recipes, you’re all set for healthy weeknight dinners that come together in a snap. Try one of these recipes tonight and see how simple, nutritious, and tasty ground chicken can be!

Call to Action: Ready to cook? Try out one of these recipes and share your experience in the comments below! For more healthy recipe inspiration, explore our site and discover wholesome meals for every day of the week.