ground chicken and rice recipes

Delicious Ground Chicken and Rice Recipes for Busy Weeknights

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As a busy parent, finding quick, nutritious meals for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share my collection of tasty ground chicken and rice recipes. They’re perfect for those crazy weeknights. These dishes are not only delicious but also save you time, so you can spend more quality time with your loved ones.

Ground chicken and rice recipes is a lifesaver for weeknight meals. It’s lean, cooks fast, and is super versatile. You can try out many flavors and ingredients to please everyone. From tasty stir-fries to cozy casseroles, these recipes will make your dinners stress-free and enjoyable for the whole family.

Why Choose Ground Chicken for Dinner?

Ground chicken is a great choice for dinner. It’s lean, which means it has less fat than other meats. This makes it a healthier option for your meals. You can use it in many dishes, like stir-fries and casseroles.

Ground chicken takes on flavors well. This lets you try out new tastes and recipes. It’s perfect for exploring different cuisines.

Health Benefits of Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is good for you. It’s a lean protein, which is important for muscles and a strong immune system. It also has less saturated fat and cholesterol, which is good for your heart.

Versatility in Cooking

Ground chicken is very versatile. You can use it instead of turkey or pork in many recipes. It’s great for making tasty stir-fries, burgers, casseroles, and soups.

“Ground chicken is a go-to ingredient for busy home cooks who want to create delicious and nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor or convenience.”

Ground chicken is perfect for adding lean protein to your diet. It’s also great for trying new recipes. It can make your dinners healthier and more exciting.

Quick and Easy Ground Chicken Stir-Fry

Craving a tasty and quick meal? This ground chicken stir-fry is perfect. It’s full of fresh veggies and flavors, great for busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound of ground chicken
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 heads of baby bok choy, chopped
  • 8 ounces of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 jalapeño or Thai chili pepper, sliced (optional for extra heat)
  • 12-15 torn Thai basil leaves

Sauce Ingredients

  • ¼ cup light soy sauce
  • ¼ cup sriracha
  • 1-2 tablespoons of honey
  • 1 tablespoon chili oil
  • 2 teaspoons fish sauce
  • Juice of 1 lime

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make this tasty chicken stir-fry, follow these steps:

  1. Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the shallot, bell pepper, and bok choy to the pan. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the veggies are tender-crisp.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, sriracha, honey, chili oil, fish sauce, and lime juice.
  4. Pour the sauce into the pan with the chicken and veggies. Toss to coat everything evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
  5. Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and Thai basil leaves.

Serve this flavorful chicken stir-fry right away. You can enjoy it on its own or over rice or noodles. Adjust the spice by adding more or less sriracha.

This quick chicken stir-fry is great for weeknights. You can add your favorite vegetables. It’s a delicious and easy quick chicken recipe.

Flavorful Ground Chicken Burrito Bowls

Looking for a tasty and healthy meal for a busy weeknight? Ground chicken burrito bowls are perfect. They mix protein, grains, and fresh toppings for a filling meal.

Choosing the Perfect Rice

The base of your burrito bowl is the rice. You can pick white rice or try brown rice or cauliflower rice for less carbs. Cook it well to make a fluffy base for your toppings.

Essential Toppings for Your Bowl

  • Shredded chicken cooked with taco-style seasonings
  • Diced tomatoes for a pop of freshness
  • Crisp lettuce or shredded cabbage for a crunchy texture
  • Creamy avocado for a touch of richness
  • Grated cheese to add a melty, savory element
  • Tangy salsa or pico de gallo for a flavor boost
  • A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cool, refreshing finish

The mix of seasoned ground chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful toppings makes a delicious burrito bowl. It’s not just tasty but also healthy, making it great for weeknights.

The ground chicken burrito bowl is a must-try for anyone wanting a chicken burrito bowl, rice bowl recipes, or healthy dinner ideas. So, pick your favorite toppings and enjoy this tasty meal!

Comforting Ground Chicken and Rice Casserole

A delicious ground chicken and rice casserole is perfect for family dinners. It’s a mix of juicy chicken, fragrant rice, and fresh veggies. This dish is both satisfying and healthy for weeknights.

Simple Ingredients List

The main ingredients for this casserole are:

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 cups of cooked rice
  • 1 cup of frozen or fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Baking Instructions for a Perfect Casserole

To make this tasty chicken rice casserole, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the chicken, rice, broccoli, and cheese in a bowl. Add salt and pepper as you like. Put the mix in a greased 9×13 inch dish and spread it out.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve it hot and enjoy this comforting one-dish meal with your family.

Variations to Try

For more flavor, add different veggies like diced bell peppers or frozen peas. Try different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to match your taste. You can also use ground beef or pork for a change in this family dinner recipe. There are many ways to make this chicken rice casserole your own.

Spicy Ground Chicken and Rice Skillet

Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? Try this spicy ground chicken and rice skillet. It’s easy to make and combines ground chicken with bold spices. It’s a comforting dinner perfect for busy nights.

Adjusting the Spice Level

You can adjust the spice to your liking. Start with a little sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce. Then, add more until it’s just right. This way, you can make a spicy chicken recipe that you love.

Cooking Time and Tips

This one-pan meal is ready in about 25 minutes. The rice and chicken cook together in the skillet. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt. Add diced bell peppers or fresh spinach for extra nutrition.

Serving SizePreparation TimeCooking TimeTotal Time
4 people5 minutes20 minutes25 minutes

Enjoy this quick dinner idea that mixes ground chicken and rice. It’s a flavorful skillet dish that will spice up your weeknights!

Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Ground chicken stuffed peppers are a tasty, low-carb dinner choice. They are not only healthy but also look great and taste amazing. The secret is the mix of savory ground chicken, herbs, and melted cheese.

Preparing the Peppers

Start by picking 4 large red bell peppers. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. This makes a space for the filling. Place the peppers in a baking dish, ready for stuffing.

Flavoring the Filling

In a bowl, mix 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 1/2 cups of cooked rice, 1 can of no-salt-added diced tomatoes, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir in 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of Mozzarella to hold the filling together.

Fill the bell pepper halves with the chicken and rice mix, pressing it down. Add 1 cup of water or broth to the dish to keep the peppers moist.

Bake at 375°F for 30 to 35 minutes. The peppers should be tender and the filling hot and bubbly. These stuffed peppers are a healthy chicken dish or a low-carb dinner option everyone will love.

stuffed peppers recipe

One-Pot Ground Chicken and Rice Dish

One-pot ground chicken and rice dishes are perfect for quick weeknight meals. They are easy to make and clean up is minimal. With pre-cooked rice, you can have a tasty meal ready in 20-25 minutes.

Time-Saving Cooking Techniques

For a quick one-pot dish, use pre-cooked or fast-cooking rice. Try jasmine or basmati rice. This way, the chicken and rice cook together, making the dish flavorful.

To boost your dish’s taste, add aromatic seasonings. Use garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs. These will make your meal rich and satisfying without much prep.

One-pot meals with ground chicken and rice are easy and healthy. They’re great for busy nights. They’re perfect for one-pot meals, easy chicken recipes, and quick rice dishes.

“This one-pot chicken and rice casserole recipe is a fast and healthy 30-minute meal that feeds a family of four for under $10.”

Ground Chicken Thai Basil Rice

Make your weeknight dinners more exciting with ground chicken Thai basil rice. This dish combines savory ground chicken with fresh Thai basil. It’s a quick and flavorful meal ready in just 20 minutes.

Key Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To get the true taste of this Thai dish, you need a few key ingredients:

  • Fresh Thai basil leaves, which lend the signature aromatic flavor
  • Fish sauce, providing a savory umami punch
  • Bird’s eye chilies, for a subtle yet delectable spicy kick

Together, these ingredients and ground chicken create a perfect flavor mix. It’s like a taste of Bangkok in your kitchen.

Cooking Technique Tips

To make the best ground chicken Thai basil rice, follow these steps. First, stir-fry the ground chicken to sear it and keep the juices in. Then, add garlic, onion, and chilies, followed by sauces. Just before serving, add fresh Thai basil leaves to keep their flavor and aroma bright.

Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice for a true Asian-inspired meal. This recipe is quick, with only 15 minutes of prep and 5 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty.

Thai basil chicken

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServings
15 minutes5 minutes20 minutes4 servings

This recipe is a hit, with a 4.96 out of 5 rating from 24 votes on Allrecipes. People love its authentic taste, quick cooking, and flexibility. It’s a flavorful and easy dish to make, perfect for weeknights.

Healthy Ground Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl

Try a nutritious ground chicken and brown rice bowl for a balanced meal. It’s a mix of savory ground chicken and wholesome brown rice. This dish is not just tasty but also good for your health.

Substituting Ingredients for Healthier Options

For a lower-carb option, swap brown rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. These choices are full of nutrients and taste great. You can also add roasted sweet potatoes or steamed broccoli for extra vitamins and minerals.

Making a Tasty Dressing

A flavorful and healthier dressing is key for the ground chicken and rice. Mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs for a tangy dressing. It’s a nutritious choice that adds a lot of flavor to your bowl.

With these simple changes, you can make a healthy chicken bowl that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s a great balanced meal idea for busy weeknights.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories865 kcal
Carbohydrates51.8g
Protein41.3g
Fat57.4g
Saturated Fat15.4g
Sodium2557.2mg
Fiber14.4g
Sugar9.2g

Ground Chicken and Vegetable Soup

Warm up with a hearty chicken soup recipes loaded with healthy veggies. This vegetable-packed meals with ground chicken is great for a cold day or a cozy dinner.

For a tasty ground chicken and vegetable soup, use a mix of fresh veggies. Here are some good choices:

  • Carrots, diced
  • Celery, sliced
  • Onions, diced
  • Zucchini, cubed
  • Petite diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz)

Cooking Instructions for a Hearty Soup

Begin by browning 1 pound of ground chicken in 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a big pot or Dutch oven. Once it’s cooked, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they’re soft.

Then, add 6 cups of chicken broth and let it simmer. Add the zucchini, diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy). Let it cook for 20-25 minutes to blend the flavors.

To make it more filling, add 1 cup of ditalini pasta or macaroni in the last 10 minutes. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the chicken soup recipes hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley for a cozy meal.

This comforting dinner ideas can be tailored to your liking and dietary needs. Enjoy the mix of tender ground chicken and healthy veggies in every bite!

Conclusion: Making Ground Chicken and Rice Your Weeknight Go-To

Ground chicken and rice recipes are a great choice for weeknights. They offer a variety of flavors, from spicy stir-fries to comforting casseroles. These dishes are perfect for any taste and dietary need.

Recap of Recipe Variations

There’s a recipe for everyone, from quick stir-fries to hearty casseroles. Try dishes like Thai basil ground chicken rice or Cuban arroz con pollo for a global twist. These recipes let you explore new flavors and cuisines.

Encouragement to Experiment in the Kitchen

Don’t just stick to these recipes. Get creative and try new spices, veggies, and cooking methods. This way, you can make these dishes your own and enjoy cooking them every week.

FAQ

What are the health benefits of using ground chicken in recipes?

Ground chicken is a lean protein that’s lower in fat. It’s a good source of protein. You can use it as a substitute for other ground meats in recipes.

How versatile are ground chicken and rice recipes?

Ground chicken and rice recipes are very versatile. You can use different types of rice or grains. You can also add various spices and herbs to change the flavor.

What are some quick and easy ground chicken stir-fry recipes?

Ground chicken stir-fry is a fast and easy meal. It includes ground chicken, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and green onions. You can add your favorite vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers.

How can I make a healthy and customizable ground chicken burrito bowl?

Ground chicken burrito bowls are a nutritious meal option. You can choose from white, brown, or cauliflower rice. Add toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado. Season the chicken with taco spices for a real flavor.

What makes a ground chicken and rice casserole a comforting one-dish meal?

Ground chicken and rice casserole is a comforting meal. It includes ground chicken, rice, vegetables, and cheese. Bake it for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can add different vegetables and cheeses for variations.

How can I make a spicy ground chicken and rice skillet?

A spicy ground chicken and rice skillet is flavorful. Use sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce for spice. Cook it for 20-25 minutes until the rice and chicken are done. Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

What are the steps to make ground chicken stuffed peppers?

Ground chicken stuffed peppers are a low-carb dinner. Cut peppers in half and remove seeds. Mix ground chicken with rice, tomatoes, and cheese. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender.

What are the time-saving techniques for one-pot ground chicken and rice dishes?

One-pot dishes save time and reduce cleanup. Use pre-cooked rice or quick-cooking varieties. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the flavors blend. Add frozen vegetables at the end for extra nutrition.

How can I make an authentic-tasting ground chicken Thai basil rice dish?

Ground chicken Thai basil rice is aromatic and flavorful. Use Thai basil leaves, fish sauce, and bird’s eye chilies for authentic flavor. Stir-fry the chicken quickly and add basil at the end. Jasmine rice is best for its fragrance.

What makes a ground chicken and brown rice bowl a healthy and customizable option?

A healthy ground chicken and brown rice bowl focuses on nutritious ingredients. Try cauliflower rice or quinoa for lower carb options. Make a tasty dressing with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs. Customize with roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or fresh spinach.

What makes ground chicken and vegetable soup a comforting and nutritious meal?

Ground chicken and vegetable soup is comforting and nutritious. Use carrots, celery, onions, and zucchini. Brown the chicken first, then add vegetables and broth. Simmer for 20-25 minutes. Add rice or small pasta for more substance.

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