Ground chicken recipes are a weeknight lifesaver, and at Recipeslace, we’ve retested and perfected every one to make sure they’re flavorful, healthy, and family-approved. These dishes go far beyond basic dinners. You’ll find healthy ground chicken recipes packed with protein, bold Asian ground chicken recipes full of spice, and cozy ground chicken and rice recipes for comfort in every bite.
Love Italian-style comfort? Try ground chicken meatballs or a savoury Salisbury steak recipe with ground chicken. Craving pasta tonight? Dive into creamy chicken piccata pasta, zesty lemon chicken orzo pasta, bold blackened chicken pasta, or a hearty chicken bacon ranch pasta salad.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
For lighter meals, don’t miss our chicken salad recipes with grapes, canned chicken, rotisserie chicken, or hot chicken salad variations. And when you’re craving cozy comfort, a chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup or a chicken noodle soup recipe is always a crockpot dinner that hits the spot.
Every recipe uses simple pantry staples, ground chicken, garlic, herbs, and fresh veggies for quick, wholesome dinners on any budget.
Written & tested by Emily, home cook & editor at RecipesLace.com (Updated October 2025).
Scroll down to explore 25+ ground chicken recipes you can cook tonight, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy family favourites.
What is Ground Chicken?
Ground chicken is finely minced chicken meat, typically a blend of lean breast and flavorful thigh meat. According to the USDA, it’s a healthy, protein-rich alternative to beef or pork, offering lower fat content and fewer calories. Its mild flavour easily absorbs spices, sauces, and marinades, making it ideal for everything from Asian lettuce wraps to ground chicken and rice recipes.
Why You’ll Love It
- Fast & Weeknight-Friendly: Most ground chicken recipes cook in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Crowd-Pleaser Flavour: Mild enough for kids but bold enough for spice lovers with easy seasoning swaps.
- Pantry Ingredients: Use everyday staples like garlic, soy sauce, and rice or pasta.
- Easy Substitutions: Swap for ground turkey or tofu for gluten-free or dairy-free options.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep, refrigerate, freeze, and reheat without losing flavour.
- Kid-Approved & Party-Ready: From chicken bacon ranch pasta salad to Asian meatballs, everyone finds a favourite.
Ground chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your kitchen. It’s lean, budget-friendly, and cooks in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal prep. From light and nutritious bowls to hearty comfort food, ground chicken can take on any flavour you add to it: Asian, Italian, Mexican, or classic American.
In this collection, you’ll find the best ground chicken recipes to suit every craving:
- Healthy options for lighter meals.
- Asian favourites with bold sauces and spices.
- Comfort classics like meatballs and Salisbury steak.
- Quick pasta dinners, refreshing salads, and cozy soups.
Looking for more party-ready appetisers? Don’t miss our creamy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip, the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game nights and family gatherings.
Each section gives you a peek at the recipe, its main ingredients, plus a tip to make it shine. Scroll down, pick your favourite, and click through for the full step-by-step recipes.
Healthy Ground Chicken Recipes
These healthy ground chicken recipes are light, nutritious, and full of flavour. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, they keep calories low while delivering big taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 g |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Onion | ½ cup |
| Zucchini or spinach | 1 cup |
| Fresh herbs | 2 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Use ground chicken breast for leaner meals or mix with thighs for extra juiciness.
👉 Find the full list here: [Healthy Ground Chicken Recipes]
Asian Ground Chicken Recipes
Fast, bold, and savoury, these Asian ground chicken recipes are packed with flavour. From stir-fries to lettuce wraps, they’re perfect for quick dinners.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 g |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Green onions | 2 stalks |
💡 Tip: Add chilli paste for spice or hoisin sauce for sweetness.
👉 See full recipes here: [Asian Ground Chicken Recipes]
Ground Chicken and Rice Recipes
Cozy and budget-friendly, ground chicken with rice makes hearty one-pan meals. Add veggies and broth for an easy dinner.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 g |
| White or brown rice | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Carrots & peas | 1 cup |
| Onion | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Cook the rice separately and stir it in at the end to keep it fluffy.
👉 Get inspired here: [Ground Chicken and Rice Recipes]
Ground Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Tender and juicy, these meatballs are lighter than beef but just as comforting. Serve with pasta or as a protein snack.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Parmesan | 2 tbsp |
| Parsley | 2 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Bake instead of frying for a healthier version.
👉 Full recipe here: [Ground Chicken Meatballs Recipe]
Salisbury Steak Recipe with Ground Chicken
A lighter twist on a diner classic, juicy patties served in rich mushroom gravy. Perfect for mashed potatoes or rice.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 500 g |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Mushrooms | 1 cup |
| Onion | ½ cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Add a dash of soy sauce for deeper flavour in the gravy.
👉 Try it here: [Salisbury Steak with Ground Chicken]
Chicken Piccata Pasta
Tangy lemon and capers make this pasta dish bright and refreshing, a restaurant-style dinner at home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken (ground or breast) | 500 g |
| Pasta | 250 g |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Capers | 2 tbsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Add extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus kick.
👉 See recipe here: [Chicken Piccata Pasta]
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and tender chicken come together in the ultimate pasta salad.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta | 250 g |
| Chicken | 2 cups |
| Bacon | 4 strips |
| Ranch dressing | ½ cup |
| Cheddar cheese | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Chill before serving to let the flavours meld.
👉 Get recipe here: [Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad]
Blackened Chicken Pasta
Bold Cajun seasoning transforms this creamy pasta into a smoky, spicy dinner favourite.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 500 g |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tbsp |
| Pasta | 250 g |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the creaminess of the sauce.
👉 Full recipe here: [Blackened Chicken Pasta]
Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta
Light yet satisfying, this dish blends orzo, lemon, and spinach with tender chicken.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Orzo pasta | 250 g |
| Chicken | 500 g |
| Lemon | 1 (zest + juice) |
| Spinach | 1 cup |
| Cream | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Swap spinach with kale for extra texture.
👉 See more here: [Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta]
Chicken Salad Recipe with Grapes
Sweet grapes and crunchy celery make this chicken salad fresh and irresistible.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups |
| Grapes | 1 cup |
| Celery | ½ cup |
| Mayo | ½ cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
👉 Full recipe here: [Chicken Salad with Grapes]
Canned Chicken Salad Recipe
Quick, affordable, and pantry-friendly, ready in minutes for sandwiches or wraps.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canned chicken | 2 cans |
| Mayo | ½ cup |
| Celery | ½ cup |
| Onion | ¼ cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Add chopped pickles for tangy crunch.
👉 See recipe here: [Canned Chicken Salad Recipe]
For salad lovers, try something different with our refreshing Tuna Pasta Salad, a creamy, protein-packed side dish for any weeknight meal.
Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe
Use rotisserie leftovers to whip up this creamy, herby salad in no time.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie chicken | 2 cups |
| Mayo | ½ cup |
| Celery | ½ cup |
| Parsley | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Best served chilled with toasted bread or crackers.
👉 Get the recipe here: [Rotisserie Chicken Salad Recipe]
Hot Chicken Salad Recipe
A baked twist on the classic salad, creamy base topped with cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups |
| Mayo | ½ cup |
| Cheese | 1 cup |
| Celery | ½ cup |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Top with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
👉 See the recipe here: [Hot Chicken Salad Recipe]
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup
Creamy, rich, and wrapped in flaky crust, the ultimate comfort food.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 2 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Frozen veggies | 2 cups |
| Pie crust | 1 |
| Onion | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Brush the crust with egg wash for a golden shine.
👉 Try it here: [Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup]
Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Crock Pot
Slow-cooked, hearty, and healing, a soup that warms the soul.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 500 g |
| Egg noodles | 200 g |
| Carrots | 1 cup |
| Celery | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
💡 Tip: Add bay leaf while cooking for extra depth.
👉 Get the recipe here: [Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot]
If you love cozy bowls of soup, you’ll also enjoy our hearty Ham and Bean Soup, a comforting classic that pairs perfectly with bread or cornbread.
Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe
Spicy and vibrant, loaded with corn, beans, and topped with lime and cilantro.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken | 500 g |
| Tomatoes | 1 can |
| Corn | 1 cup |
| Black beans | 1 cup |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Lime | 1 |
💡 Tip: Serve with avocado slices or tortilla chips.
👉 See recipe here: [Mexican Chicken Soup Recipe]
Easy Chicken Tender Recipes for Dinner with Few Ingredients
Simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights with pantry staples.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 500 g |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
💡 Tip: Bake at high heat for extra crispiness.
👉 Full recipe here: [Easy Chicken Tender Recipes]
Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas
Crispy, juicy tenders served baked, grilled, or pan-fried are always a hit with kids and adults.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 500 g |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Parmesan | ½ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Dipping sauce | Ranch or mustard |
💡 Tip: Double-coat in breadcrumbs for crunchier results.
👉 Get inspired here: [Chicken Tender Dinner Ideas]
Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner
Minimal cleanup, maximum flavour, juicy chicken thighs roasted with vegetables.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 4 |
| Potatoes | 2 |
| Carrots | 2 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Herbs | 1 tbsp |
💡 Tip: Add lemon wedges to the tray for brightness.
👉 See the full recipe here: [Chicken Thigh Sheet Pan Dinner]
Shredded Chicken Dinner Ideas
Endlessly versatile, use shredded chicken for tacos, enchiladas, rice bowls, or soups.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shredded chicken | 2 cups |
| Tortillas | 4 |
| Salsa | ½ cup |
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Beans | 1 cup |
| Cheese | ½ cup |
💡 Tip: Make a big batch and freeze for busy nights.
👉 Find the recipes here: [Shredded Chicken Dinner Ideas]
Ground Chicken Recipes – FAQ
What is ground chicken made of?
Ground chicken is usually a mix of lean breast and flavorful thighs, finely minced for quick cooking.
Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?
Yes, ground chicken is generally lower in fat and calories compared to beef, making it a leaner option.
Can I substitute ground chicken for ground turkey?
Absolutely, both are lean proteins, but chicken has a slightly milder flavour that absorbs spices better.
What is the best way to cook ground chicken?
Ground chicken cooks quickly in a skillet with a little oil. Make sure to cook until no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes.
How do you keep ground chicken moist?
Add ingredients like olive oil, eggs, or breadcrumbs to lock in moisture. Using a mix of breast and thigh also helps.
What seasonings go well with ground chicken?
Garlic, onion, soy sauce, Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, and fresh citrus all pair beautifully with ground chicken.
How long does cooked ground chicken last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Can you freeze ground chicken recipes?
Yes, cooked ground chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove for the best texture.
Is ground chicken good for meal prep?
Definitely, yes, it’s quick to cook, versatile, and reheats without losing flavour.
What can I make with ground chicken for dinner?
Popular choices include meatballs, chicken stir fry, tacos, pasta dishes, soups, and rice bowls.
Are there healthy ground chicken recipes?
Yes, dishes like ground chicken with vegetables, lettuce wraps, or chicken and rice bowls are light yet filling.
What are the best easy ground chicken recipes?
Try chicken piccata pasta, chicken bacon ranch pasta salad, or quick Asian stir fry for weeknight meals.
Conclusion
Ground chicken truly proves that healthy, budget-friendly meals don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re making cozy meatballs, zesty Asian stir-fries, or creamy pasta dishes, this versatile protein adapts to any flavour profile. For extra cooking and nutrition guidance, check resources like the USDA and Healthline, which confirm chicken’s value as a lean protein.
👉 Looking for more inspiration?
- Follow our full recipe boards on Pinterest for quick weeknight ideas and seasonal ground chicken favourites.
- Read more behind-the-scenes cooking stories and family-tested recipes on our Medium publication.
No matter your craving, RecipesLace.com is here to keep your dinners flavorful, practical, and family-approved.
