If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a mom, it’s that ground meat—whether it’s beef, chicken, or turkey—can save dinnertime more times than I can count. But today, let’s talk about ground chicken.
Ground chicken is a real game-changer in the kitchen. It’s light, tasty, and so versatile! Plus, it’s perfect when you want something a little healthier but still full of flavor. From quick stir-fries to cozy casseroles and kid-approved meatballs, ground chicken works its magic in so many dishes.
What I love most is how easy it is to cook. Whether I’m whipping up a simple chicken picadillo or trying something fun like chicken burgers, dinner comes together in no time—perfect for busy moms like us.
Today, I’m sharing some of my family’s favorite ground chicken recipes. These are simple, delicious, and perfect for those nights when you need a quick win at the dinner table. Whether you’re craving comfort food, something fresh and light, or a dish with bold flavors, there’s a little something here for everyone.
Let’s get cooking and make dinnertime easy and fun!
Filipino Chicken Picadillo is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from home. It’s a staple in my home when I was growing up. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting on the table. The ground chicken cooks up tender and soaks in all the rich flavors from the tomato-based sauce, while the potatoes and carrots make it extra filling. My little one loves it over rice, and I love how easy it is to whip up!
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped ham, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Shape into balls: Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
- Coat the balls: Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to give it a nice coating. This helps them get crispy when fried.
- Fry the balls: Heat cooking oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken balls in batches until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve these warm with your favorite dip. If you’re heading out for a picnic, let them cool slightly, then pack them in a container to keep them fresh.
2. Ground Chicken Ham and Cheese Balls
If you’re looking for a fun and easy recipe that everyone will love, these Ground Chicken Ham and Cheese Balls are just perfect! They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with cheesy, savory goodness. My little one gets so excited when I make these—they’re like little bites of happiness!
The best part? They’re super versatile. You can serve them as a snack, a quick lunch, or even pack them up for a picnic at the park. They’re easy to eat, mess-free, and pair well with your favorite dips like ketchup or honey mustard.
These Ground Chicken Ham and Cheese Balls are so simple yet so special. They’re perfect for little hands and big appetites, making them great for family outings or cozy afternoons at home.
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 1/2 cup cooked ham, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cooking oil, for frying
Instructions
- Cook the aromatics: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: Add the ground chicken to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and no longer pink.
- Add the tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, letting them soften and release their juices.
- Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced potatoes, carrots, and green peas. Stir everything together.
- Season and simmer: Add the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and ground black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth or water, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the picadillo and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a little more soy sauce or pepper if desired.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the chicken picadillo over steamed rice and serve it warm.
3. Eggplant Omelette
“Torta” refers to an omelette or a type of patty, while “talong” is the Filipino word for eggplant. Tortang Talong or Eggplant Omelette is essentially a Filipino-style omelet made with grilled or broiled eggplant, often stuffed with ground meat like pork or chicken.
It’s a Filipino classic that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially with a warm plate of steamed rice. The smoky flavor of the eggplant combined with the savory ground chicken is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized eggplants (talong)
- 200g ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Instructions
- Prepare the eggplants: Grill or broil the eggplants over an open flame, turning them until the skin is charred and the flesh becomes soft. Let them cool, then peel off the skin, keeping the stem intact. Flatten the eggplants gently with a fork.
- Cook the ground chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and cook until softened. Stir in the ground chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Set aside.
- Combine the mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spoon some of the cooked ground chicken mixture onto the flattened eggplant, gently pressing it into the flesh. Dip the entire eggplant into the beaten eggs, coating it evenly.
- Fry the tortang talong: Heat the remaining oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully place the coated eggplant into the pan and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Repeat for the remaining eggplants.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the Tortang Talong warm with steamed rice and your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or soy sauce with calamansi.
4. Chicken Quesadilla
I first came across this recipe on RecipeTin Eats, and let me tell you—it’s been a game-changer in my kitchen! I’ve been making it for years now, and it’s become one of those go-to meals I can always count on.
My son loves how fun they are to eat, and I love how easy they are to make. Plus, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack to bring along on busy days or casual picnics.
The best thing about quesadillas? You can customize them however you like. Add some veggies, extra cheese, or even a little spice—it’s all up to you!
5. Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Patties
I made this dish just last week, and my son absolutely devoured it! He didn’t even notice there were vegetables in it—mom win! I found the recipe on RecipeTin Eats and decided to give it a try, tweaking it a bit to fit what we had at home. It’s so easy, healthy, and perfect for a quick meal that the whole family can enjoy.
The combination of tender ground chicken and broccoli with just the right seasonings makes this dish a winner. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or just as it is, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the table!
6. Ground Chicken Tacos
Tacos are always a family favorite, and these Ground Chicken Tacos are no exception! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. My son loves loading up his taco with all the fixings—cheese, salsa, and guacamole! This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some lean protein.
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 small soft or hard taco shells
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- Salsa or guacamole (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Season the chicken: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the tacos: Warm the taco shells according to the package instructions. Spoon the ground chicken mixture into each shell, then top with shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you like.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the tacos with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor.
7. Ground Chicken Meatloaf
This Ground Chicken Meatloaf, Filipino-style (or Embutido), is a lighter twist on the classic Filipino meatloaf made with pork. It’s just as delicious and comforting, with all the savory goodness and sweet flavors you love.
Embutido is a classic Filipino meatloaf, usually made with ground pork, but today we’re using ground chicken for a leaner version.
This dish is perfect for special occasions, holiday feasts, or even as a packed lunch! My son loves the sweet, savory taste and all the fun ingredients like cheese and veggies tucked inside. It’s a meal my family loves, and it’s a great way to introduce new flavors to kids without them even realizing they’re eating their veggies!
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup cooked ham, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup pickles, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green peas
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, ham, pickles, carrots, onion, green peas, and eggs. Season with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix everything well until fully combined.
- Shape the embutido: Place the mixture onto a piece of wax paper or foil and shape it into a log or cylinder, about the size of a meatloaf. Roll tightly and twist the ends to seal it.
- Steam the embutido: In a large pot, fill with water and bring to a boil. Place the embutido in a steamer basket or arrange on a rack over the boiling water. Cover and steam for 45-60 minutes or until fully cooked. If you don’t have a steamer, you can also boil it directly in the water, making sure it’s covered.
- Fry the embutido: Once cooked, heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Unwrap the embutido from the wax paper or foil and gently fry it until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: While frying, mix the ketchup and a little bit of water to make a simple sauce. Drizzle this over the embutido when serving.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice into rounds and serve hot with steamed rice. This is a perfect dish for family meals or celebrations!
8. Ground Chicken Pasta with Spinach
You know what I love about pasta? It’s so easy to make and always feels like a comforting meal! This Ground Chicken Pasta with Spinach is no exception. With lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, and a creamy white sauce, this dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just yourself, this pasta will fill you up without taking too much time in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 500g pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 100g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the chicken: Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the chicken. Stir well to combine and cook for another minute to bring out the flavors.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed and coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor.
9.Ground Chicken Burger
Sometimes, we’re all looking for a healthier version of a burger without sacrificing flavor, and this Ground Chicken Burger is just what you need! Made with lean ground chicken, these burgers are juicy, flavorful, and a lighter option compared to traditional beef burgers. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings, and they’re perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal. Whether you’re serving them with fresh veggies, a side salad, or just your favorite condiments, these burgers are sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, pickles, or other favorite toppings
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Shape the patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. You can make them as thick or thin as you like.
- Cook the burgers: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- Assemble the burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly in the same skillet or oven. Place each cooked chicken patty on a bun, and add your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomato, pickles, or even a little cheese if you like.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your chicken burgers with a side of fries, a simple salad, or some fresh veggies. Enjoy!
10. Minced Chicken Fried Rice
As an Asian, rice is always a staple in my kitchen, and sometimes I just whip up fried rice with whatever leftovers I have. It’s such a simple and satisfying meal that I can throw together in no time. Usually, I’ll have some leftover ground meat on hand, which has already been seasoned with salt and pepper, then stir-fry with whatever vegetables I have in the fridge or toss it into the rice. It’s a great way to clean the fridge and create a flavorful, one-pan meal that everyone will enjoy. This fried rice is a simple but delicious meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 4 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables of choice)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or any cooking oil)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Scramble the eggs: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble them, stirring occasionally, until cooked through. Set the scrambled eggs aside with the chicken.
- Sauté the veggies: Add the onion, garlic, and frozen peas and carrots to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the rice: Add the cold, cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir to combine with the veggies.
- Season the rice: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and drizzle with sesame oil. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Combine chicken and eggs: Add the cooked chicken and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with green onions and serve hot!
11.Homemade Chicken Nuggets
Every kid loves chicken nuggets, but if you want to know exactly what’s in them, making them homemade is the way to go! These Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and free from any mystery ingredients. Plus, they’re super easy to make and are a healthier version of the store-bought kind. My son loves them, and I love knowing exactly what’s going into his meal. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. If you like, add chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor and color.
Form the nuggets: With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, then flatten them into nugget shapes. Coat each nugget in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Cook the nuggets: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the nuggets in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can also bake them at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the nuggets from the pan and drain them on a paper towel. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
12. Chicken Ramen
If you’re a fan of ramen and love a quick and easy meal, this Ramen recipe from Aaron and Claire is perfect for you, although they use pork in this recipe, you can substitute it with ground chicken! They’re my go-to for Japanese and Korean dishes, and this one is no exception. What’s great about this recipe is that you can whip up a comforting bowl of ramen in less than 30 minutes! Packed with tender chicken, flavorful broth, and the perfect noodles, it’s a delicious meal that doesn’t take up much time. If you’re craving ramen, definitely check this out!
Final Thoughts on Ground Chicken Recipe
As a mom, I know how precious time with family is. Quick and easy meals mean more time to spend with the ones I love, whether it’s playing with my son, chatting at the dinner table, or just relaxing together. These simple, healthy, and delicious recipes help me get a homemade meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you enjoy them as much as we do, and that they give you more time to enjoy the little moments with your loved ones.
