9 Best Ground Chicken Recipes 2024: Delicious Ideas 

Ground chicken is a fantastic protein source, offering a lean alternative to ground beef or pork. It’s also lower in fat and calories, making it perfect for those seeking healthier options. Whether cooking up a hearty dinner or prepping for the week, ground chicken fits into a wide variety of recipes without compromising on nutrition.

Yet, some shy away from ground chicken because it can dry out quickly and taste mild. That’s why, with the help of our in-house nutritionist, I’ve curated a list of flavorful ground chicken recipes that deliver on both taste and nutrition.

If you're on a low-calorie diet or looking to reduce your calorie intake, don't miss our list of the best low-calorie meal delivery services. Many of these menus feature tasty ground chicken recipes perfect for your goals.

1. Chicken Meatballs for Versatile Dishes

*Nutritional information in the table is for baked meatballs. Pan-fried ones come with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, which adds 6 g of fat and 59 kcal per serving.

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb (450 g) of ground chicken 

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 2-3 minced cloves of garlic

• 1/4 cup of finely chopped or grated onion (optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Gather and prep your ingredients. You can add whatever other ingredients you may have in your fridge, such as grated carrots, cubed mushrooms, grated squash, and diced peppers. 

2. In a large mixing bowl, using a solid spoon or your hands, combine all the ingredients until well mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

3. Scoop 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Aim for meatballs that are roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pro tip: To avoid the mixture sticking to your hands, set aside a bowl of water to dip your hands in from time to time.

4. Once all the meatballs are shaped, it’s time to cook. You can choose between baking, pan-frying, or air-frying.

Overview

Ground chicken meatballs are a versatile classic, perfect for any occasion. I admit I’m a bit biased, as my mother used to make them whenever she needed to whip up something on the spot without investing too much time and effort. So, each bite reminds me of childhood.

As an adult, I make them myself, and I love that you can customize the recipe with the veggies you already have in the fridge. Just make sure the veggies don’t overpower the meat – you want to have balance.

Pair the meatballs with various sides like pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or stir-fried veggies for a complete and satisfying dish. You can also store any leftovers in the fridge for at least 3 to 4 days, or you can freeze them for later.

2. Chicken Patties for Finger-Licking Burgers

*Nutritional values for chicken patties only.

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb ground chicken 

• 1 minced shallot 

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp garlic powder or 3 minced garlic cloves

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 egg

• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 

• 1 cup finely crushed cornflakes

• Other herbs and spices to your liking

• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients using your hands or a solid spoon until everything is well incorporated. 

2. Form the mixture into patties and set them aside on parchment paper or a silicon sheet. In between patties, dip your hands in a water bowl to avoid the mixture sticking to your hands.

3. In a shallow bowl, spread cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) in an even layer. Press each patty into the layer of cornflakes on both sides and place them back on the silicon sheet or parchment paper.

4. Once all the patties are formed, it’s time to prepare for deep-frying. For this, you’ll need a straight-sided skillet or a Dutch oven, as well as a deep-fry thermometer. Pour oil into the cooking recipient to a depth of 1 inch and heat over medium-high heat until the thermometer registers 350º. 

5. Slowly add 2 or 3 patties at a time (make sure they have space) and let them fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Once cooked, remove the patties from the oil using a skimmer and place them on a paper-towel-lined plate.

Overview

Chicken patties are amazingly versatile! Besides the classic burgers and sandwiches, patties also go well with a side of veggies, mashed potatoes, or fries. You can also add them on top of a rice bowl as the main protein, slice them up and include them in a salad, or crumble them up and add them to pasta.

Additionally, chicken patties are fantastic for meal-prepping. You can store them in the fridge, in an air-tight container, for 3 to 4 days. This way, all you have to do is reheat the number of patties you need right before serving them.

There’s also the option of freezing them right after cooling down. Just make sure to wrap each one in foil and then seal the whole batch in a zip bag. This way, you avoid freezer burns, and you can use as many as you need in one sitting.

3. Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb ground chicken (preferably a mix of white and dark)

• 1 lb spaghetti (or another pasta shape)

• ¾ cup whole milk

• 1 small onion, finely chopped (1 cup)

• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped (½ cup)

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped (¾ cup)

• 3 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) whole peeled tomatoes, pureed

• ½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or similar) (optional)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground pepper

• Freshly grated Parmesan

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the ingredients. Wash, peel, and chop the veggies, and make sure you have everything handy.

2. Add oil in a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped vegetables and season with salt and pepper. Continue to stir for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.

3. Add the chicken and use the spoon to break it into bite-size pieces. Cook until no longer pink (around 3 to 4 minutes). Add more salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Add in the tomato paste and cook everything for another 2 minutes. Add the wine (you can skip this step if not using wine) and boil until almost evaporated for 1 to 2 minutes.

5. Add the milk and tomatoes, reduce the heat, and let the sauce simmer until thickened (around 12 to 15 minutes).

6. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Once cooked, drain, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water. 

7. Add the pasta back into the pot and add the thickened sauce on top. Add the pasta water, a little at a time, and mix the sauce and pasta until evenly coated. On the plate, top with freshly grated Parmesan.

Overview

The Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese offers a lighter twist on the classic, with ground chicken instead of beef. It's a go-to for busy weeknights or quick lunches, offering the comforting warmth of carbs and protein.

The recipe is beginner-friendly and versatile, as you can add your spin to it (depending on what you have in the fridge). For me, this dish is all about cozy family dinners with everyone gathered around the table happily talking about their day, surrounded by enticing flavors and delicious bites.

Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese is the perfect recipe for when you crave a hearty meal that’s simple yet flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Pot Sticker Dumplings

Ingredients 📃

• ½ lb ground chicken 

• 1 minced garlic clove (or more, if you feel adventurous)

• 1 cup finely chopped bok choy

• ½ tsp minced fresh ginger (peeled)

• 1 tsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp peanut oil

• ½ tsp sesame oil

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 egg white

• 36 dumpling wrappers

• Peanut oil for frying

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Wash, peel, mince, and chop the bok choy, ginger, and garlic, and make sure the other ingredients are within easy reach. Have a bowl of water nearby for the wrappers.

2. Mix the chicken, bok choy, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and salt in a bowl. When you have a homogenous paste, add in the egg white.

3. Lay down several dumpling wrappers on your work surface. Add 1 teaspoon of filling to each wrapper (don’t over/under-stuff them!).

4. Dip your fingers in the bowl of water and wet the edge of each wrapper (don’t overdo it). Fold the dough over so the edges are on top of each other, and pinch around the edges using your thumb and forefinger. 

5. Place the folded dumplings on a baking sheet and repeat the process with the rest of the wrappers or until your filling runs out. Cover the formed dumplings with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.

6. Once all the dumplings are formed, heat a large skillet. When it’s hot enough, add a bit of oil and coat the pan. Add a layer of pot stickers once the oil gets shimmery (avoid crowding them). 

7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start turning golden on the side facing the pan (do not flip). Add a quarter cup of water to the pan and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5 minutes (or until the meat is cooked through). 

8. Serve hot with a dipping sauce.

Overview

If you love Asian cuisine but don’t want takeout, this light version of dumplings is the best option. You’ll end up with around 36 crispy, golden dumplings pan-fried to perfection.

Each dumpling offers a delightful bite with savory flavors. Often served as an appetizer or side, potstickers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual meal or a festive gathering. 

You can also serve them with a dipping sauce made from 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, and 1 finely chopped green onion. Whisk all ingredients together and serve with warm potstickers for a flavorful, tangy dip! 

5. Thai Basil Chicken

Ingredients 📃

• 2 lbs of ground chicken

• 1 chopped red bell pepper (remove the seeds and stem)

• 2 thinly sliced Thai bird's eye chilis 

• 3 thinly sliced shallots

• 5 minced garlic cloves

• 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1/4 cup oyster sauce

• 1 tsp fish sauce

• 3 tbsp canola oil

• 2 tsp granulated sugar

• 2 cups packed Thai basil leaves 

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Set a wok or cast-iron skillet over high-heat and add oil to coat it. 

2. When the wok or skillet is hot enough, add the bell pepper, shallots, and garlic, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. 

3. Add the chicken and use a spatula to break it up into small bits. Make sure the chicken and the veggies get to know each other for about 3+ minutes. When the chicken is cooked, add the chilis and continue stirring to combine. 

4. Add the chicken broth, fish and oyster sauces, and sugar, stirring continuously until thickened. Add the basil leaves and keep stirring for an extra minute or 2. 

5. Serve with cooked rice. 

Overview

This is a flavorful, stir-fried dish that combines garlic, chili, and fresh Thai basil with ground chicken. Basil Thai Chicken is a fan-favorite among Asian cuisine lovers that offers a savory-sweet balance with a slight kick of heat, making it incredibly satisfying.

The vibrant, fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note that sets it apart from other stir-fries. This dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or when you're craving something delicious and comforting without a lot of effort. It's an easy-to-make recipe that typically takes under 30 minutes, making it beginner-friendly. 

Thai Basil Chicken is best enjoyed freshly cooked with jasmine rice, though it can also be paired with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. Its simplicity, combined with bold flavors, is why it's a favorite for home cooks and food lovers alike.

6. Spicy Ground Chicken and Veggies Stir Fry

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper

• 6 oz snow peas

• 1/2 cup finely sliced carrots

• 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into small pieces)

• 1/2 medium onion (finely sliced)

• 3/4 cup cashews

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the sauce:

• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water

• 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar

• 3 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp grated ginger

• 3 minced garlic cloves

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare everything – the veggies, oils, and sauces – and make sure you have everything within reach. This is a fast recipe, and you need to keep going once the fire is lit. 

2. Add all the ingredients for the sauce to a medium bowl and whisk everything together.

3. Place a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and coat it with oil (1 tablespoon is enough). When the wok or skillet is hot, add the ground chicken and cook it for about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir from time to time and use your spatula to break down the chicken into small bites.

4. Transfer the chicken to a plate or bowl.

5. Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet/wok and add the finely sliced onion. Let it cook for about 1 minute, then add the other veggies. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until they're tender-crisp. 

6. Add the cashews, cooked chicken, and sauce over the veggies. Stir everything and make sure every bit is coated in sauce. Let everything simmer until the sauce gets thicker (less than a minute). 

7. Serve immediately.

Overview

This flavorful stir fry is a fantastic option for dinner or lunch whenever you’re craving some flavor. It’s easy to make, and you can enjoy it as is. You can also add a serving of cooked rice or noodles (rice, Udon, or ramen) for a more complete dish.

To get the perfect crisp veggies and flavor-infused chicken, make sure to keep the heat on high all the time and stir constantly so the ingredients don’t stick to the pan. You can even throw in a few tosses if you’re confident in your skills.

This is also a great option for meal planning, as you can cook more servings and keep the leftovers in the fridge for about 4 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container. To reheat, use a saucepan over low heat or a microwave.

7. Ground Chicken Mac & Cheese

Ingredients 📃

• 10 oz cooked ground chicken

• 12 oz cooked Gemelli pasta

• 3 oz baby spinach

• 1 oz sliced pickled jalapeño peppers

• ⅓ cup béchamel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• ¼ cup cream

• ¼ cup barbecue sauce

• 2 oz shredded cheddar & monterey jack cheese blend

• 1 tbsp smoky spice blend (smoked paprika, sweet paprika, ground yellow mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the ingredients: wash the spinach and slice the peppers.

2. Heat a large pan coated with olive oil on medium-high until hot. Add the ground chicken, half the spice blend, barbecue sauce, and 2 tablespoons of water. Season with salt and pepper. 

3. Cook, stirring frequently and breaking the meat apart with a spoon, for 2 to 3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. Transfer to a bowl and cover with foil to keep warm. 

4. Wipe out the pan.

5. Coat the same pan with olive oil and place over medium-high heat. When hot, add the béchamel, cream, cheese blend, what’s left of the spice blend, 1/4 cup of water, and the chopped peppers (add as many as you think you can handle). Season with salt and pepper. 

6. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the ingredients are combined and the cheese is melted. 

7. Add the pasta and spinach, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 2 minutes or until combined and the spinach is wilted. Turn off the heat. 

8. Serve topped with the cooked chicken.

Overview

This Mac & Cheese version is the perfect way to get the kids to eat spinach. Just make sure to adjust the spice by reducing the amount of jalapeno pepper. You can add more to your plate if you feel it doesn’t have enough of a kick.

You can also personalize the recipe further by mixing in cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or blue cheese. Each addition brings a unique taste, creating a rich and complex sauce. The addition of  roasted veggies, such as broccoli or caramelized onions, improves the nutritional value and visual appeal of the dish.

8. Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients 📃

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 diced onion (medium)

• 2 diced celery stalks

• 1 peeled and diced carrot

• 1/4 cup tomato paste

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 dried bay leaves

• 32 oz mashed potatoes

• 1 tbsp grated parmesan

• 1/2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Prepare the ingredients: peel and dice the veggies, and bring out the sauces and seasonings.

2. Brown the ground chicken without breaking it in a large skillet over medium heat. Flip and push to one side of the skillet. 

3. Add the olive oil, onion, celery, and carrot. Use the spatula/spoon to break the chicken apart and mix with the softened veggies.

4. Once everything is cooked, add the flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir to mix all the ingredients and add the tomato paste. Cook for several minutes until fragrant.

5. Add the broth, vinegar, Worcestershire, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a medium-low simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to look like gravy or meat sauce.

6. Turn off the heat and transfer to an oven-safe dish.

7. Microwave the mashed potatoes and spread them in a medium-thick layer on top of the meat mixture. Grate some parmesan and drizzle half a tablespoon of olive oil over the top.

8. Bake at 350 ºF for 35 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown.

9. Let the pie cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Top with fresh parsley.

Overview

This comforting dish is perfect for anyone who loves rich, hearty meals. With tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all covered by a golden potato crust, it's an ideal choice for cold weather or family gatherings. 

Though it takes some time to prepare, the recipe is relatively easy to make. Best served fresh out of the oven, it pairs well with a light salad or roasted vegetables. It’s a great make-ahead meal, too, perfect for meal prepping or casual entertaining.

9. Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients 📃

• 12 bell peppers (medium to large)

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 diced white onion

• 12 oz riced cauliflower

• 28 oz fire-roasted crushed tomatoes

• 15 oz can black beans

• 1 cup drained canned corn

• 4 oz shredded Mexican cheese

• 1 packet of taco seasoning

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove any stems, membranes, and seeds.

2. Place the peppers upside down on a sheet pan and roast them for about 20 minutes in the preheated oven at 425 ºF. 

3. Meanwhile, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and coat it with olive oil. When the oil starts to shimmer, add the ground chicken and brown one side for 3-4 minutes until it forms a golden brown crust. 

4. Break apart the ground chicken in the skillet and add the diced onion and riced cauliflower. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onion has softened and the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Add the tomatoes, taco seasoning, beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer until the peppers in the oven are roasted.

6. Transfer the roasted peppers to a baking dish with tall walls (to make sure the peppers won’t topple over) and add the filling to each pepper. 

7. Top each pepper with shredded cheese. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or chili flakes (according to your preferences).

Overview

Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a family-friendly favorite, especially for kids, due to their fun, colorful presentation and the mild, savory filling. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce kids to peppers and teach them how delicious this veggie can be.

The recipe is easy to prepare, making it beginner-friendly, and can be personalized with various seasonings or veggie add-ins like corn or spinach. You can even swap the rice for quinoa or use a different protein, like turkey.

This dish is ideal for meal planning because you can freeze the peppers and reheat them at a later date. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or packed lunches. You can also store them in the fridge for a few days in an air-tight container, providing a quick and healthy option whenever needed.

FAQ

How do I keep ground chicken from drying out when cooking?  

Ground chicken is lean, so it can dry out quickly. To keep it moist, cook it over medium heat and avoid overcooking. Adding ingredients like broth or vegetables can also help retain moisture.

Can ground chicken be substituted for ground beef or pork in recipes?  

Yes! Ground chicken can be used instead of beef or pork in most recipes, like burgers, meatballs, and casseroles. Just keep in mind it has a milder flavor, so you might need to adjust the seasoning or spices.

Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?  

Ground chicken is typically lower in fat and calories compared to ground beef, making it a leaner, healthier option. However, be sure to check the label for fat content, as it can vary.

How do I know when ground chicken is fully cooked?  

Ground chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C). It will turn white and firm as it cooks, but using a meat thermometer is the safest way to ensure it's fully done.

What are the best seasonings to use with ground chicken?  

Ground chicken pairs well with a variety of seasonings. Garlic, onions, cumin, paprika, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil all enhance its mild flavor. You can also try soy sauce, ginger, or chili for an Asian-inspired twist, like in this Spicy Ground Chicken and Veggies Stir Fry.