The Best Ground Chicken Recipe for Busy Nights
Table of Contents
If you’re searching for a ground chicken recipe that’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights, this one’s about to become your new staple. Ground chicken cooks quickly, soaks up seasoning, and works across tons of recipes with ground chicken, from bowls to pasta. You’ll have dinner ready in under 30 minutes with zero stress.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 1 lb (450g) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, finely diced | 1 small |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Soy sauce or Worcestershire | 1 tbsp |
| Optional: chili flakes, parsley, lemon juice | to taste |
Timing
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 3–4
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the pan
Place a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Let it warm for a minute—this helps the chicken brown instead of steam.
2. Sauté the aromatics
Cook the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the ground chicken
Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains.
4. Add flavor
Pour in soy sauce or Worcestershire and let it simmer for 2 minutes so the seasoning absorbs fully.
5. Finish and serve
Turn off the heat and adjust seasoning to taste. A squeeze of lemon brightens your ground chicken recipe and makes it dinner-ready.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use ground chicken breast to lower fat
- Swap oil for cooking spray
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini while cooking
- Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos
- Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice
These swaps keep your recipes with ground chicken lighter without losing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This base works in almost anything:
- Rice bowls with veggies and avocado
- Stuffed peppers or baked zucchini boats
- Quick tacos with salsa and shredded lettuce
- Stir into marinara for protein-packed pasta
- Breakfast scrambles with eggs and potatoes
Want variety? Turn this into a chicken meatballs recipe just mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, and herbs, then bake until golden. You can also shape mini bites for a simple chicken meatball recipe kids love.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Fridge: Store for up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze flat for up to 3 months
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of broth
- Avoid reheating multiple times—portion before storing
Freezing in 1-cup portions makes last-minute meals way easier.
FAQs – Using
What makes this ground chicken recipe so versatile?
Its mild flavor absorbs seasoning well, so you can turn it into tacos, pasta, bowls, or even meatballs.
Can I swap turkey in this ground chicken recipe?
Yes—ground turkey works similarly but may need extra oil to prevent dryness.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking?
Use a nonstick skillet, preheat the oil, and avoid stirring too early so it browns properly.
Is ground chicken safe when slightly pink?
No—always cook to 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
With one pan and simple ingredients, this ground chicken recipe gives you a fast, flexible protein that fits into endless recipes with ground chicken. Whether you keep it simple or turn it into a chicken meatballs recipe, it’s perfect for meal prep and weeknight cooking—no stress, all flavor.