Ground Chicken Recipe Made Simple and Delicious
A Nostalgic Start
Growing up, weeknight dinners were often a hurried affair, but they never lacked flavor or comfort. My mother had a knack for whipping up hearty meals that brought the family together, even on the busiest of evenings. One of her go-to favorites was a Ground Chicken Recipe that balanced simplicity with incredible taste. Over time, I’ve adapted her classic dish, adding my own twists to make it even more versatile and appealing. Today, I’m excited to share this Ground Chicken Recipe with you—a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to enjoy.
Nutrition Facts and Calories Table
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup of prepared dish
Preparing Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Chicken Dish
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Ground chicken | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chili flakes (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Cooked rice or pasta | For serving |
How to Make a Flavorful Ground Chicken Recipe in Simple Steps
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients for your Ground Chicken Recipe. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the bell pepper. This ensures that the cooking process goes smoothly and quickly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your dish.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken browns evenly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly but still retain some crunch. This adds both texture and nutritional value to the dish.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the chicken and vegetables evenly. Add the chicken broth and soy sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and incorporate all those delicious browned bits. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in the chili flakes at this stage.
Step 6: Simmer and Combine
Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The sauce should thicken slightly, coating the chicken and vegetables.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Serve the ground chicken mixture over cooked rice or pasta for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Why This Recipe Works
Versatile Ingredients
This ground chicken recipe is adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Swap bell peppers for zucchini, or use ground turkey instead of chicken. The simple seasoning blend complements a variety of substitutions.
Quick and Easy
With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. The one-pan approach simplifies cleanup, making it a practical choice for any home cook.
Healthy and Balanced
Packed with protein, vegetables, and flavorful spices, this recipe strikes a balance between taste and nutrition. It’s a great way to incorporate lean protein and fiber-rich veggies into your diet.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, onion, and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor profile. While dried spices work in a pinch, fresh ingredients add a vibrant touch.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Ground chicken cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. Stir frequently and remove from heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste
Feel free to customize the spice level and salt content to suit your preferences. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can also brighten the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes
Pair this ground chicken recipe with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. These sides complement the dish without overpowering its flavors.
Beverages
A crisp white wine or a light, fruity iced tea makes an excellent accompaniment. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a twist of lime.
Variations and Additions
Add Mushrooms
Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside the onions for an earthy twist.
Try Different Spices
Experiment with curry powder or Italian seasoning for a new flavor profile.
Make It Creamy
Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy finish.
Conclusion
This ground chicken recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Its adaptability and robust flavor make it a staple in any kitchen. Give it a try and discover your new favorite weeknight meal.
