15 Easy Ground Chicken Recipes for Quick Dinners

Ever feel like time is running out on a busy weeknight? Dinnertime can sneak up on you fast. Ground chicken recipes can be a lifesaver. They’re easy to make, healthier, and super versatile.

With just a few ingredients, you can make 15 easy ground chicken recipes. They’re perfect for satisfying your family and saving you from last-minute dinner stress.

These quick dinners include tasty meatballs, flavorful tacos, and hearty casseroles. They’re quick and won’t leave you stuck in the kitchen for hours. Plus, you can easily swap out ground chicken for other proteins to suit your taste.

Let’s take back dinner time, make better meals, and enjoy quality time with our loved ones.

Table of contents

Introduction to Ground Chicken Recipes

Ground chicken is a leaner option compared to traditional ground beef and pork. It’s versatile and flavorful, making it great for many ground chicken recipes. It’s perfect for quick dinners or big family meals, adding taste without extra effort.

Ground chicken is incredibly adaptable. It fits well in dishes from Italian to Asian cuisines. It’s the key ingredient in tasty stir-fries and casseroles. Adding spices and sauces makes it even more appealing, pleasing everyone at the table.

Try the Ground Chicken Sloppy Joe’s recipe for a quick meal. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and serves six. Each Serving has 190 calories, making it a healthier choice than traditional recipes.

introduction to ground chicken

Exploring ground chicken recipes can open up new flavours. It works well with many ingredients, making cooking more exciting and healthy. Choose ground chicken for its nutritional benefits and the variety it adds to your meals.

Benefits of Choosing Ground Chicken for Quick Dinners

Ground chicken is a great choice for quick meals. It brings new flavours to your dishes and has health and money benefits. It makes family dinners tasty and healthy.

Healthier than Traditional Ground Beef

Ground chicken has less saturated fat than ground beef. This makes it a better choice for your health. A serving of ground chicken tacos has about 189 calories, less than beef tacos’ 241 calories.

This lower calorie count means you can enjoy your meals without feeling guilty. Ground chicken also has about 23.28 grams of protein per Serving. This is slightly less than beef but still very nutritious.

Cost-Effective and Versatile

Ground chicken is also more affordable than ground beef. It can be used in many recipes, like tacos, stir-fries, and casseroles. Its versatility lets you get creative with your meals without spending a lot.

Using ground chicken helps you make delicious, budget-friendly meals. Everyone will enjoy them.

For more insights on privacy and data protection while enjoying these recipes, refer to the privacy policy of TessaRecipes.

benefits of ground chicken

Ground Chicken Meatballs: A Family Favorite

Ground chicken meatballs are a healthy and tasty choice for any meal. This section covers two tasty variations: spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs and savoury Asian meatballs with a soy glaze. Both are easy to make and great as appetizers or main dishes, so your family will love them.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs add a fun twist to a classic dish. You’ll need:

  • 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Mix the ingredients, then shape them into balls. Bake at 400°F for 15-17 minutes or until they reach 165°F. This recipe makes about 30 meatballs, perfect for six servings. It’s a hit, with 4.9 stars from 723 users.

Asian-Inspired Meatballs with Soy Glaze

Asian meatballs can spice up your dinner. Mix these ingredients for flavour:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko)
  • Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste

Roll the mixture into meatballs and bake for 15-17 minutes. For the soy glaze, mix soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Drizzle it over the meatballs. These meatballs are tasty and lower in fat, making them good for many diets.

RecipeCooking TimeYieldNutritional Content (Per Serving)
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs30 minutes6 servings (30 meatballs)277 calories, 34g protein, 6g fat
Asian-Inspired Meatballs30 minutes6 servings (approximately 30 meatballs)270 calories, 32g protein, 5g fat

These ground chicken meatballs are easy to prepare ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later. They’re convenient and full of flavour, making them a hit with your family.

Ground Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food Simplified

Casseroles are a perfect mix of easy and satisfying, especially with ground chicken. This protein boosts flavour and health. Here are two tasty recipes that show how ground chicken makes comfort food better.

Easy Lasagna Rolls with Ground Chicken

These lasagna rolls are filled with ground chicken, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce. They take 10 minutes to prepare and bake for about 40 minutes. They serve up to eight people, making great leftovers for the week.

One-Pot Creamy Chicken Casserole

This casserole mixes ground chicken with veggies and cream of mushroom soup. It cooks in 35 minutes, with prep taking just 15 minutes. It has mozzarella and potatoes, making it a complete meal. Each Serving has about 234 calories, making it a filling and affordable option.

Quick and Easy Ground Chicken Tacos

Tacos are a quick and tasty meal for busy nights. They mix ground chicken with fresh ingredients for a great taste. You can make a delicious meal in just a few steps, pleasing everyone.

Spicy Ground Chicken Taco Recipe

This recipe makes 4 to 8 servings and takes only 15 minutes to make. Start with 1 pound of lean ground chicken. It makes your tacos juicy. Sauté onion in olive oil, then add the chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink.

Add homemade taco seasoning for flavour. Use chilli powder, cumin, garlic powder, and more. Diced tomatoes with chillies add an extra taste.

Combine black beans and diced tomatoes with the chicken. Simmer for 10 minutes. This makes a tasty filling for your tacos.

Top your tacos with:

  • Grated cheese
  • Salsa
  • Guacamole
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Hot sauce
  • Lime wedges

Vegetable-Packed Chicken Taco Salad

For a lighter meal, try a taco salad. Use the same chicken mix and add colourful veggies. Top with your favourite salsa or dressing. It’s a healthy and tasty option.

Try the chicken mix in stir-fries or burrito bowls. You can also stuff bell peppers or make nachos and quesadillas. It’s a versatile way to enjoy your meal.

IngredientQuantity
Ground Chicken1 pound
Canned Black Beans1 (15-ounce)
Diced Tomatoes1 (14.5-ounce)
Cooking Time15 minutes
Servings4 to 8

Filling and Flavorful Ground Chicken Burgers

Ground chicken is a tasty alternative to beef burgers. It makes juicy, healthy chicken burgers that are easy to make at home. You can quickly make a basic recipe for busy nights. Add a gourmet touch with pesto-stuffed burgers.

Healthy Ground Chicken Burger Recipe

This recipe is all about fresh flavours and lots of protein. It has over 30 grams of protein per Serving, making it a great dinner choice. It’s also gluten-free and low-carb because it doesn’t need eggs or breadcrumbs. Here’s a simple recipe:

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced very fine
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 hamburger buns

These burgers cook in just 7 minutes. They’re full of flavour and protein. You can also freeze them for up to six months.

Savory Pesto-Stuffed Chicken Burgers

Pesto-stuffed burgers add a burst of flavour. The pesto makes the burgers moist and rich. These burgers are perfect for family dinners or weekend grilling.

Each Serving has about 175 calories, fitting well into a healthy diet. Just watch your toppings! For more ideas, see this ground chicken burger recipe with Mediterranean flavours.

Delicious Ground Chicken Stir Fry for Busy Nights

Stir fries are great for quick, healthy meals after a long day. Ground chicken stir fry is a lean protein that tastes amazing and has bold flavours. You’ll find two tasty recipes: Thai basil chicken over coconut rice and a colourful vegetable-packed stir fry. Both are ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.

Coconut Rice with Thai Basil Chicken

This recipe mixes Thai basil’s aroma with coconut rice’s sweetness. Cook rice with coconut milk for creaminess. Brown ground chicken in a skillet with sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Add honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to balance the taste. Stir in Thai basil and serve over coconut rice for a fulfilling meal.

Vegetable-Packed Ground Chicken Stir Fry

This stir fry is easy to customize with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Start by heating sesame oil in a skillet, then add the ground chicken. Add garlic and ginger for flavour, using paste if you’re in a rush.

For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed, and a bit of honey for sweetness.

This dish is quick, ready in about 15 minutes, and serves two or three. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.

Hearty Ground Chicken Chili Recipe

Chilli dishes are perfect for cosy dinners. They offer rich flavours and can be customized. You’ll find a creamy white chicken chilli and a spicier version with beans. Both are great for cold nights or game days.

White Chicken Chili with Creamy Broth

This white chicken chilli is a tasty twist on traditional recipes. It uses ground chicken for a creamy texture. The ingredients include:

  • Ground chicken
  • Yellow onion
  • Bell peppers
  • Garlic cloves
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Chicken broth
  • Cream
  • Spices: salt, black pepper, cumin, and chilli powder

It’s packed with 23g of protein and 11g of fibre per Serving. It makes 6-8 servings, perfect for family dinners or parties.

Spicy Ground Chicken Chili with Beans

Looking for a spicy chilli? This version is full of heat. It’s made with ground chicken, black beans, and kidney beans. It’s filled with spices like:

  • Chili powder
  • Cayenne pepper (for added spice)
  • Paprika
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional topping)

You can change the protein to ground turkey or beef. Try different beans for a unique taste. Prep takes about 20 minutes, and cooking is around 30 minutes.

Leftovers last up to four days in the fridge or three months in the freezer. Add shredded cheese, cilantro, or lime juice for extra flavor. The spices and toppings make it hearty and tasty.

Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Light and Tasty

Ground chicken lettuce wraps are a light and tasty meal option. They mix fresh ingredients with savory flavors. This makes them perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. With a simple recipe, making delicious food is easy.

Copycat Chicken Lettuce Wraps Inspired by P.F. Chang’s

It’s easy to make these wraps at home. Start by gathering ground chicken, shiitake mushrooms, and water chestnuts. Water chestnuts add crunch, while garlic and ginger add flavour. A splash of toasted sesame oil adds a nutty aroma.

For flavour, use ground chicken with at least 7% fat. Choose a lean option around 96% for a healthier meal. Mixing everything takes just 30 minutes. Leftovers stay fresh for up to three days.

Use lettuce like bibb or romaine for wraps. These leaves add a nice crunch. Add toppings like chopped peanuts, sliced chile peppers, and lime juice for extra flavor. You can also use turkey, pork, or plant-based crumbles for different tastes.

Nutritional InformationPer Serving
Calories302 kcal
Carbohydrates11 g
Protein23 g
Fat19 g
Sodium877 mg
Dietary Fiber3 g
Total Sugars9 g
Iron2.5 mg

Ground Chicken Skillet Recipe: Quick and Easy

One-skillet meals are great for busy cooks. They are quick to prepare and easy to clean up. This section has two tasty options: a skillet chicken and veggies dinner and a Mexican-style ground chicken skillet. Both dishes are full of flavour and nutrients, making them perfect for quick and healthy meals.

Skillet Chicken and Veggies Dinner

This skillet chicken and veggies dinner is full of nutrients. It’s a great choice for your family. The recipe uses a 1:3 ratio of ground chicken to veggies, ensuring a balanced meal. It’s quick to make and tastes great.

Mexican-Style Ground Chicken Skillet

The Mexican-style ground chicken skillet is full of flavour. It’s ready in just 25 minutes and serves four. The recipe uses 2 pounds of ground chicken and 15-20 ounces of red salsa. It also includes a 15-ounce can of black beans for extra protein and fibre.

Storing leftovers is easy. Just put them in an airtight container in the freezer. They’ll last up to three months.

This ground chicken skillet recipe shows how easy it is to make healthy meals quickly!

Creative Ways to Use Ground Chicken in Pizza

Make your pizza night special with ground chicken. Ground chicken pizza recipes add fun and health benefits to a classic dish. You can make toppings that make your pizza unforgettable.

BBQ Chicken Pizza with Ground Chicken

Try a BBQ chicken pizza for a tasty treat. Mix ground chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce. Spread it on a pizza crust, homemade or store-bought.

Add shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a gooey top. Jalapeños or red onions add a spicy kick. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This BBQ chicken pizza is perfect for quick dinners.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza Recipe

For a bold flavour, try the buffalo chicken pizza recipe. Season ground chicken with buffalo sauce for a spicy base. Layer with blue cheese or ranch dressing and top with diced celery for crunch.

This vibrant pie is satisfying and a great conversation starter. You can also add different vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Creating unique ground chicken pizza recipes lets you try new flavours. Whether you’re making BBQ or buffalo chicken pizza, ground chicken is a lean and tasty choice. It ensures delicious meals for everyone.

Conclusion

Using ground chicken in your meals can make weeknight dinners much better. This versatile protein is not only good for you but also lets you try many new dishes. With 15 easy ground chicken recipes, you have quick and affordable dinner ideas.

You can make everything from tasty meatballs to big casseroles. Try different cooking ways like baking, air-frying, or pan-frying. For a special treat, try the ground chicken kofta recipe. It’s sure to be a hit.

Ground chicken is also great for meal prep because you can buy it in bulk. Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. So, why not explore the healthy options ground chicken can add to your meals?

FAQ

What are some easy ground chicken recipes I can try?

You can try recipes like ground chicken meatballs, ground chicken tacos, or a one-pot creamy chicken casserole. Each of these dishes is simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?

Yes, ground chicken is typically leaner and has a lower saturated fat content compared to ground beef. This makes it a healthier choice for family dinners, allowing you to enjoy flavorful meals guilt-free.

Can I make ground chicken meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare ground chicken meatballs in advance, freeze them, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. This option is great for quick weeknight meals.

What is a good ground chicken taco recipe?

Try the spicy ground chicken taco recipe, which combines flavorful spices to create a savory filling. For a healthier alternative, consider a veggie-packed chicken taco salad.

How can I use ground chicken in casseroles?

Ground chicken can be incorporated into various casseroles. For example, you can use it in easy lasagna rolls or a creamy one-pot chicken casserole, both of which provide comfort and nutrition.

What are some healthy ground chicken burger recipes?

You can make a healthy ground chicken burger using a blend of spices and herbs. Consider adding a savory pesto stuffing for extra flavor and moisture to your burgers.

What is a quick stir-fry recipe using ground chicken?

A Thai basil chicken stir-fry served over coconut rice is a quick and delicious option. It embraces bold flavors and can be made with seasonal veggies for a nutritious meal in no time.

Can ground chicken be used in chili?

Yes, ground chicken can be used to create hearty chili dishes. Both white chicken chili and spicy ground chicken chili with beans are excellent choices for comforting meals.

How do I make ground chicken lettuce wraps?

To make ground chicken lettuce wraps, sauté ground chicken with hoisin sauce and crunchy water chestnuts, then serve in fresh lettuce leaves for a low-carb and flavorful meal.

What is a simple ground chicken skillet recipe?

A skillet chicken and veggies dinner is a quick option that can be made in one pan. You can also try a Mexican-style ground chicken skillet for a satisfying and easy weeknight meal.

How do I incorporate ground chicken into pizza?

Ground chicken can be used as a topping for pizza. Try BBQ chicken pizza or buffalo chicken pizza for a healthier and exciting twist on your typical pizza night.