When it comes to quick and easy meals, ground chicken and rice is a winning combination. Not only does it offer a lean protein source, but also a flavorful base that can be elevated with a variety of herbs, spices, and ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of ground chicken and rice. From spicy skillets to savory casseroles, and even healthy wraps, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family on-the-go, these recipes are perfect for weeknights when you need a comforting meal without a lot of fuss.
Spicy Ground Chicken and Rice Skillet
Quick and satisfying, this spicy skillet combines juicy ground chicken with flavorful rice and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Once browned, add the cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Ground Chicken Rice Bowl
A flavorful and filling bowl that combines the richness of teriyaki chicken with the comfort of a warm rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp water
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the teriyaki sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and divide among bowls.
5. Top the rice with the teriyaki ground chicken, garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground chicken with cooked rice and a blend of spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and olive oil until well combined.
6. Stuff each pepper with the ground chicken mixture and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Ground Chicken and Rice Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground chicken, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked chicken mixture to the rice mixture; stir until combined.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish; top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground chicken with fluffy rice and fresh lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the ground chicken until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the wraps by spooning the chicken-rice mixture onto a lettuce leaf and adding any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground chicken, rice, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using water.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked rice, ground chicken mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Soup with Vegetables
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of ground chicken, rice, and vegetables for a nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful and filling stir-fry that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos
This recipe makes a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With ground chicken, fluffy rice, and savory spices, these burritos are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 tortillas (flour or corn)
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until combined with the chicken mixture.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the chicken and rice mixture onto a tortilla, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, where tender zucchini boats are filled with a savory mixture of ground chicken, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet
Savor a flavorful one-pot meal with this easy Ground Chicken and Rice Taco Skillet recipe. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas, cut into wedges
– Shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange tortilla wedges on top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and lightly toasted.
6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite toppings (shredded cheese, sour cream, and cilantro).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Cabbage Rolls
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional cabbage rolls, this recipe combines the richness of ground chicken with the comfort of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cooked rice, chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix well.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish coated with cooking spray or oil. Cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Curry
This flavorful curry is a twist on traditional Indian dishes, with the added convenience of using ground chicken and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, this recipe combines aromatic spices with tender meat and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add ground chicken; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked rice with the curry mixture; stir well.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Meatballs with Marinara
A twist on traditional meatballs, these ground chicken and rice meatballs are infused with the flavors of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet with the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Pilaf with Herbs
This hearty pilaf combines flavorful ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the mixed herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the chicken mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the pilaf to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Enchiladas
Ground Chicken and Rice Enchiladas Recipe
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this delicious twist on traditional enchiladas, featuring ground chicken and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked rice, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the chicken and rice mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling it up and placing it seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Fried Rice
This flavorful dish combines juicy ground chicken with savory rice, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty and comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines ground chicken, savory rice, and creamy vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, frozen vegetables, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. In a separate pot, prepare mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
6. Transfer the ground chicken mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground chicken and rice with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the ground chicken. Stir until well combined.
5. Stuff each tomato shell with the ground chicken mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Chicken and Rice Paella
A flavorful and hearty twist on the classic Spanish dish, this recipe combines ground chicken with saffron-infused rice and a blend of spices for a one-pot wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add ground chicken; cook, breaking up with spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in mixed vegetables, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir to combine with other ingredients.
5. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 10-12 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful ground chicken and rice recipes! From spicy skillets to creamy casseroles, these mouth-watering dishes are perfect for busy nights. Try making Spicy Ground Chicken and Rice Skillet, Teriyaki Ground Chicken Rice Bowl, or Creamy Ground Chicken and Rice Casserole for a comforting meal. Or, go international with Ground Chicken and Rice Curry, Ground Chicken and Rice Paella, or Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos. Whatever your taste buds crave, there’s a recipe on this list to satisfy you.
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