simple ground chicken recipe
The Best simple ground chicken recipe
I’ve been making this simple ground chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that just never gets old. It’s quick, it’s healthy, and most importantly, my kids actually eat it without complaining—which is basically a miracle in my house. I love that it’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for when we have friends over. Plus, ground chicken is such a great lean protein option, so I don’t have to feel guilty about serving it often.
What really sells this recipe for me is how easy it is to customize. Sometimes I keep it basic with just a few spices and serve it over rice, and other times I toss it into tacos or stir-fry with veggies. My husband always asks for seconds, and even my picky eater will finish her plate if I mix it into pasta or stuff it into peppers. It’s one of those meals that checks all the boxes—fast, filling, and full of flavor without being heavy. And since ground chicken is lower in fat than beef, I feel good about making it a regular part of our rotation.
Simple Ground Chicken Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful ground chicken stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Packed with vegetables and a savory sauce, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Extra green onions (for garnish)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes). Set aside.
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2 Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
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3 Add the minced garlic and ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the chicken with a wooden spoon, until it is no longer pink (about 5-6 minutes).
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4 Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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5 Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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6 Remove from heat and stir in the sliced green onions. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired.
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7 Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Simple Ground Chicken Stir-Fry Works
This simple ground chicken recipe is one of those no-fail dishes that always works, no matter the occasion. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for family gatherings, and the mild flavor means even picky eaters will clean their plates. I love that it’s light yet satisfying, and you can dress it up or keep it simple—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Chicken Stir-Fry
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken in this recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and works well in most recipes. The flavor and texture are very similar, though turkey may be slightly leaner. If using turkey, you may want to add a little extra oil or moisture (like a splash of broth) to prevent dryness.
2. How do I know when the ground chicken is fully cooked?
Ground chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check this with a meat thermometer. Visually, the meat should be opaque (no pink) and crumbly. Overcooking can make it dry, so remove it from heat as soon as it hits the safe temperature.
3. Can I freeze cooked ground chicken from this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked ground chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best texture, avoid refreezing previously frozen cooked chicken.
4. What are some easy ways to add more flavor to this recipe?
Here are a few simple upgrades: – Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, or ginger before adding the chicken. – Spices: Add cumin, paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning. – Sauces: Stir in soy sauce, teriyaki, or hot sauce for extra depth. – Herbs: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or basil brighten the dish. – Umami boosters: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of miso paste.
5. What dishes can I make with cooked ground chicken?
Cooked ground chicken is incredibly versatile! Try it in: – Tacos or burritos (with taco seasoning) – Stir-fries (with veggies and rice) – Pasta sauces (like Bolognese or Alfredo) – Stuffed peppers or zucchini boats – Soups or chili (as a lean protein) – Meatballs or burgers (mixed with breadcrumbs and egg)
