Ground chicken is a versatile, lean protein perfect for quick weeknight dinners and easy meals. These ground chicken recipes are not only delicious, but most can be prepared in 30 minutes or less!
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If you've got a pack of ground chicken in the fridge and aren't sure what to make, you've come to the right place. Ground chicken is one of the most versatile proteins you can cook with: it's lean, budget-friendly, and takes on flavors beautifully.
From easy weeknight dinners like tacos and skillet pasta to comforting classics like chili and shepherd's pie, there are endless ways to use it. This collection of ground chicken recipes has something for everyone, so you'll never be stuck wondering what to make for dinner again.
26 Quick and Easy Ground Chicken Recipes
These ground chicken dinner ideas promise lean meat and flavor, and most can be prepared in 30 minutes or less!
The Best Spicy Chicken Burgers
A healthy alternative to hamburgers. These juicy and flavorful ground chicken burgers are made up of just the right ingredients.
Healthy Nachos
Healthy nachos are made with your choice of ground chicken, turkey, or beef and loads of veggies, and mixed with your favorite salsa.
Ground Chicken Tacos
This quick and easy recipe is perfect because it's completely customizable to your taste preference and what's available in your kitchen.
10 Minute Air Fryer Ground Chicken Meatballs
Ground Chicken Meatballs make for an easy weeknight meal. Serve them over noodles, rice, vegetables, or eat them a la carte.
Ground Chicken Chili
A perfect weeknight meal on a cold night that is healthier and has fewer calories than chili with beef. Use this recipe or swap out your favorite chili recipe that calls for ground beef.
Ground Chicken Meatloaf
This is not your mom's meatloaf with this healthy twist on a classic comfort food.
Asian Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Wow the family with this easy, healthy dish that is also packed with a ton of flavor.
Homemade Chicken Nuggets
The kids will love this one and so will mom because these baked nuggets are not only tasty but a healthier way to eat nuggets.
Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
This nutritious alternative is low carb, gluten-free and features bell peppers stuffed with meat, veggies and a little heat.
One-Skillet Ground Chicken Pasta
This versatile dish includes your choice of pasta and is made with meat, veggies, Italian seasoning, marinara sauce and two types of cheese.
Creamy Ground Chicken Soup
This soup is ready in 30 minutes and is made with simple ingredients such as potatoes, mushrooms, celery, onion, spinach and seasonings.
Ground Chicken Casserole
This keto friendly casserole is made with red onions, cauliflower rice, tomatoes, cream cheese and cheddar with only 20 minutes prep and cook time each.
Ground Chicken Stir Fry with Green Beans
Just a few pantry ingredients and 30 minutes is all you need to make this naturally gluten and dairy free dish.
Ground Chicken Enchiladas
Not only is this recipe easy to make, it's ideal for making ahead on a busy weeknight when you won't have time to prepare.
Easy Chicken Spaghetti
Enjoy this quick and budget-friendly chicken spaghetti in under 30 minutes with a pre-made marinara sauce that is infused with garlic, rosemary, and red wine for added flavor.
Ground Chicken Teriyaki
Just 4 ingredients and 15 minutes is all you need to have this meal ready for the dinner table.
Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes
This kid-friendly meal is incredibly simple to make and perfect for almost any budget.
Chicken Taco Salad
If you're looking for something lighter but still packed with lean protein then this salad is for you.
Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
This soup is made with simple ingredients such as corn, white beans, sour cream, peppers, green chilis and sour cream, and is ready in 40 minutes.
Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs (kababs)
These are really easy to make and you can make a meal out of these with naan and saffron rice, or even a sandwich.
Healthy Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Packed with broccoli and protein this dish is ready in 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders with ground chicken
The easy recipe is ready in 15 minutes using store bought buffalo sauce, ranch and slider buns.
Easy Chicken Lasagna Recipe
This clever recipe uses frozen cheese ravioli, pre-made marinara sauce, Italian seasoning and two cheeses. The prep time is minimal and all you have to do is wait for it to bake.
Chicken Gyros
Enjoy a Mediterranean style dinner with this easy meal loaded with vegetables and lean meat.
Firecracker Ground Chicken
This high protein, no carb recipe is made with chicken simmered in chili oil and coated in a sweet and spicy firecracker sauce.
Cajun Chicken Meatballs in Cajun Cream Sauce
This one-pan meal with with a Cajun cream sauce is perfect over rice or pasta for a hearty family dinner.
Why You'll Love These Ground Chicken Recipes
Easy to Use - Can be used in a wide range of recipes and is an easy substitute for recipes calling for ground beef or turkey.
Healthy - A lean source of protein while providing a valuable source of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus.
Versatile & Tasty - Whether you're making burgers, chili, meatballs, tacos, or stir-fries, ground chicken easily takes on the flavors of many dishes.
Affordable - Chicken is generally more affordable than other types of meat and ground chicken can be even more cost effective because it's easier to produce and can use a variety of less expensive chicken cuts.
More Ground Chicken Ideas
We've put together a list of even more ground chicken recipe ideas so you'll always have one ready when you need it!
Comfort Food with a Twist
- Ground Chicken Meatloaf - a lighter take on the classic, moist and flavorful.
- Chicken Shepherd's Pie - creamy mashed potatoes over a hearty chicken and veggie filling.
- Chicken Chili - white chicken chili or a tomato-based version.
- Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes - saucy, sweet-savory, and kid-friendly.
Weeknight-Friendly Dinners
- Ground Chicken Tacos - quick, easy, and perfect for taco night.
- Chicken Enchiladas - rolled in tortillas with green or red sauce.
- Stuffed Peppers with Ground Chicken - healthy and customizable.
- Ground Chicken Pasta Skillet - one-pan meal with garlic, veggies, and parmesan.
- Chicken Lasagna or Baked Ziti - comfort food lightened up.
Asian-Inspired Ground Chicken Recipes
- Chicken Lettuce Wraps - fresh, crisp, and restaurant-style.
- Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai) - spicy, savory, and fast.
- Chicken Fried Rice - better than takeout, made at home.
- Egg Roll in a Bowl - low-carb, high flavor.
- Ground Chicken Dumplings or Potstickers - freezer-friendly and fun to make.
Mediterranean & Middle Eastern Flavors
- Chicken Kofta Kebabs - spiced skewers grilled or broiled.
- Ground Chicken Gyros - wrapped in pita with tzatziki.
- Chicken Shawarma Bowls - served with rice, salad, and creamy sauce.
- Chicken Kefta Meatballs - paired with couscous or flatbread.
Ground Chicken Burgers, Sandwiches & Wraps
- Classic Chicken Burgers - juicy and well-seasoned.
- Buffalo Chicken Burgers - spicy with blue cheese or ranch.
- Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches or Sliders - cheesy and crowd-pleasing.
- Chicken Pita Wraps with Hummus - fresh and Mediterranean-inspired.
- Chicken Banh Mi Sandwich - a Vietnamese classic made with ground chicken.
Soups & Stews
- Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs - cozy and flavorful.
- Chicken Tortilla Soup - topped with avocado and crispy tortilla strips.
- Chicken Pho - aromatic broth with seasoned ground chicken.
- Chicken Meatball Miso Soup - light but satisfying.
Appetizers & Small Bites
- Ground Chicken Meatballs - endless variations: Buffalo, BBQ, teriyaki, or Mediterranean.
- Chicken Quesadillas - fast and cheesy.
- Chicken Nachos - the ultimate party snack.
- Stuffed Mushrooms with Ground Chicken - elegant appetizer.
- Chicken Sausage Rolls - wrapped in puff pastry for gatherings.
Meal Prep & Healthy Options
- Ground Chicken Lettuce Cups - low-carb and high-protein.
- Chicken Quinoa Bowls - with roasted veggies and tahini dressing.
- Chicken Stir-Fry Bowls - fast, versatile, and great for leftovers.
- Chicken Chili Meal Prep - freezer-friendly and hearty.
- Chicken Meatball Lunch Boxes - protein-packed for grab-and-go meals.
Creative & Unexpected Uses
- Ground Chicken Pizza Topping - spicy or Italian-seasoned chicken crumbles.
- Chicken Breakfast Sausage Patties - homemade and lean.
- Chicken-Stuffed Zucchini Boats - fresh and filling.
- Ground Chicken Chili Mac - the ultimate comfort combo of pasta and chili.
- Stuffed Spaghetti Squash with Ground Chicken - low in carbs!
Ask AI to give you even more ground chicken recipe ideas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?
Ground chicken is often leaner than ground beef, making it lower in calories and fat while still providing plenty of protein. It's a good choice if you're looking for a lighter option, though it can dry out more quickly, so recipes often include ingredients like onions, sauces, or cheese to keep it moist.
Can I substitute ground chicken for ground beef or turkey?
Ground chicken can usually be swapped in for ground beef or turkey in most recipes. Keep in mind that chicken has a milder flavor, so it benefits from more seasoning, marinades, or sauces. It's works especially well in tacos, pasta dishes, soups, and casseroles.
What's the best way to season ground chicken?
Ground chicken has a pretty neutral flavor, so it's very versatile. You can use Italian herbs and garlic for pasta, chili powder, chipotle, and cumin for Mexican recipes, or soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger (either fresh or ground) for Asian dishes.
How do I keep ground chicken from drying out?
Ground chicken is lean, so it dries out much faster than ground beef. Cooking it in sauces, soups, or stir-fries helps to keep it juicy, and you want to avoid overcooking it whenever possible.
Can you freeze ground chicken recipes?
Many ground chicken dishes (chili, meatballs, soups, and stuffed peppers) freeze really well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, label them with the date, and they'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Is ground chicken good for meal prep?
Recipes like chicken meatball bowls, stir-fries, or chili can be made in bulk, portioned out, and stored in the fridge for several days of easy lunches or dinners.
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