10 Family Friendly Ground Chicken Recipes Even Picky Eaters Love

Finding meals that the whole family loves can be tough, especially with picky eaters in the mix. Ground chicken is a great go-to ingredient because it’s so versatile and easy to work with. Think cheesy casseroles, bright and tasty tacos, and simple one-pan meals that make dinner a breeze. These recipes are not just nutritious but also packed with flavors everyone will love. Let’s explore these delicious options that might just become your family’s new favorites.

Cheesy Ground Chicken Casserole

Cheesy Ground Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground chicken with the creamy richness of cheese, all baked to perfection.

It’s a versatile dish that can easily be adjusted to include your family’s favorite vegetables or pasta shapes, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Best of all, it’s a one-pan meal that saves on cleanup time, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your evening with your loved ones.

This casserole isn’t only delicious but also practical. The ground chicken is a lean protein that cooks quickly, while the cheese provides a gooey, indulgent texture that kids and adults alike will love.

With just a few simple steps, you can have a wholesome meal on the table that serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering or a cozy family dinner. Let’s plunge into crafting this comforting dish that will surely become a staple in your household.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that the casserole will bake evenly once assembled.

2. Cook the Ground Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Then, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Combine Ingredients: Add the marinara sauce and spinach to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir well to combine, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly.

Next, add the cooked pasta and half of the mozzarella cheese, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown hue on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld and make serving easier.

Extra Tips:

For a creamier texture, consider adding a half cup of ricotta cheese or cream cheese into the mixture before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the other seasonings.

Feel free to customize with additional veggies such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition. If you have leftovers, the casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Enjoy your cheesy creation!

Ground Chicken Tacos With Fresh Salsa

Ground Chicken Tacos With Fresh Salsa are a delightful twist on the classic taco night, offering a healthier and equally delicious alternative to traditional beef tacos. This recipe combines the juicy and flavorful ground chicken with a vibrant, homemade fresh salsa that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a family meal or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

The ground chicken is seasoned to perfection and cooked until it’s tender and juicy, while the fresh salsa made with ripe tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a revitalizing contrast. The combination is served in warm tortillas and can be topped with your favorite taco toppings such as shredded cheese, lettuce, or avocado. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient and delicious option for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8-12 small corn or flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 avocado, sliced

For Fresh Salsa:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture, season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly. If the mixture seems dry, add a tablespoon of water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low, and let the chicken simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is simmering, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30 seconds until warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous spoonful of the seasoned ground chicken onto each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and a slice or two of avocado. Spoon some of the fresh salsa over the top.
6. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately, with any additional salsa on the side.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the completed tacos just before serving. If you prefer a bit more heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce to the salsa.

Customize the toppings to suit your taste; sliced radishes or a dollop of sour cream can add another layer of flavor and texture. To make the meal even more nutritious, consider serving the tacos with a side of black beans or a simple green salad.

Kid-Friendly Chicken Meatballs

Looking for a meal that will satisfy the whole family, especially the little ones? These Kid-Friendly Chicken Meatballs are just what you need. Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are both healthy and appetizing, offering a tender texture and a burst of flavor. Perfect for spaghetti night or as a protein-packed snack, these meatballs are easy to prepare and certain to become a household favorite.

These meatballs aren’t only delicious but also packed with nutrients that are essential for growing kids. They’re seasoned with mild spices to keep them kid-approved, yet you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your family’s taste. Whether served with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad, these meatballs are versatile and quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for 4-6 People:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will guarantee the oven is ready to bake the meatballs and save you time once they’re prepared.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and oregano. Use your hands to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for kids and guarantees even cooking. You should be able to make about 20-24 meatballs depending on the size.
4. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
5. Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re evenly spaced. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be served on their own, with tomato sauce and spaghetti, or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Extra Tips:

For even more flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of finely diced onions to the meat mixture. If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, finely grated zucchini or carrots can be mixed in without affecting the flavor.

If you find the mixture too sticky to work with, wet your hands before shaping the meatballs. These meatballs also freeze well, so consider doubling the recipe to have a quick meal option on hand for busy days.

Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines the savory flavor of ground chicken with the nutritional goodness of broccoli, all brought together with a delectable sauce. It’s a meal that isn’t only family-friendly but also satisfies your craving for something healthy and flavorful.

This stir-fry is sure to become a regular on your dinner menu, pleasing both adults and children alike with its vibrant colors and enticing aroma. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to increase the nutritional content.

It’s perfect for a family of 4-6 people, and the preparation time is minimal, making it an excellent choice for when you’re short on time. Served over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, this Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a complete meal that offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
• Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chicken broth, and cornstarch until smooth. Set this mixture aside; it will be used to flavor the stir-fry.
2. Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat all the ingredients. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Final Touches: Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine everything evenly. Remove from heat.
6. Serve: Serve the Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. Optionally, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.

Extra Tips:

When making this dish, it’s important to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking because the process moves quickly once you begin. Cutting the broccoli into evenly sized florets ensures even cooking.

You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer, but ground chicken keeps the dish light and healthy. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a dash of chili flakes or a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce. Enjoy your meal!

Italian-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Indulge your family with a flavorful and nutritious meal by preparing Italian-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers. This dish combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the earthy flavors of bell peppers, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Stuffed peppers aren’t only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a family-friendly dinner.

This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The key to this recipe lies in the delicious filling, which is a blend of ground chicken, Italian herbs, and a touch of tomato sauce. The peppers are roasted to perfection, allowing the sweetness of the peppers to complement the savory filling beautifully.

Serve this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s no longer pink. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the chicken mixture is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in the cooked rice and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper with the chicken and rice mixture. Press down lightly to guarantee the filling is compact.
5. Bake the Peppers: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the stuffed peppers. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Italian-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers, consider using a variety of bell pepper colors for a more vibrant presentation. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as parmesan or provolone, for a unique flavor twist.

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture. Additionally, to save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the peppers.

This recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to accommodate different dietary preferences, such as using quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is a delightful family-friendly dish that combines the rich flavors of ground chicken and fresh spinach with a luscious, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want to prepare something that’s both nourishing and satisfying for everyone around the table.

The pasta, coated in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs, pairs beautifully with the tender ground chicken and vibrant spinach, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy families. The ingredients are simple and readily available, ensuring that you can whip up this meal with minimal fuss.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, providing a comforting and wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and spinach pasta hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired for a little extra heat.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the pasta, make sure not to overcook it as it will continue to cook slightly once mixed with the sauce.

Using fresh spinach is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

Additionally, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk, but keep in mind this may result in a slightly less creamy consistency.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes

Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes are a delightful twist on a classic family favorite. These sandwiches aren’t only delicious but also healthier than their beef counterparts, making them perfect for a family meal. Ground chicken is leaner and absorbs flavors beautifully, guaranteeing that each bite is packed with a rich, savory taste.

This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

The magic of Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes lies in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a satisfying and wholesome meal that everyone will love. The combination of ground chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of sweetness is irresistible, and when served on soft buns, these Sloppy Joes become a comforting and hearty meal.

Plus, they’re easily customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4-6 hamburger buns

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and red bell pepper, and mince the garlic cloves. Keep all ingredients handy as this will streamline the cooking process.
2. Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the ground chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the chicken is no longer pink and is fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sauces and spices: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and smoked paprika. Mix well to ascertain the chicken is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together and thicken the sauce to the desired Sloppy Joe consistency.
6. Prepare the buns: While the chicken mixture is simmering, you can toast the hamburger buns if desired. Simply place them on a baking sheet and toast them under a broiler for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Spoon the chicken mixture generously onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the top half of the bun over the filling and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture if your family enjoys a bit of heat.

To make these Sloppy Joes even more nutritious, consider adding finely chopped carrots or zucchini to the sautéed vegetables. These extra veggies will blend seamlessly into the dish and provide additional vitamins and fiber.

Serve these Sloppy Joes with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your family-friendly feast!

Asian-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Asian-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of Asian cuisine with the crisp, invigorating texture of fresh lettuce. This family-friendly recipe isn’t only delicious but also a healthy option for a quick and satisfying meal. Ground chicken, infused with a savory blend of soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil, makes for a flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the cool crunch of lettuce leaves.

These wraps are a great way to introduce little ones to new flavors while keeping things light and nutritious. Ideal for a serving size of 4-6 people, these wraps are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family meal. Served as an appetizer or main course, they offer versatility and can be customized with a variety of toppings like chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add extra crunch and flavor.

With minimal preparation and cook time, these Asian-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a must-try for any family looking to explore global cuisines within the comfort of their home.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha, optional
• 1 (8-ounce) can whole water chestnuts, drained and diced
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat up for about a minute until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook and crumble the chicken with a wooden spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, diced onion, and freshly grated ginger. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Mix in Sauces and Seasonings: Pour in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and Sriracha (if using). Stir everything together until the chicken is well-coated and the sauce is heated through.
5. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced water chestnuts and half of the sliced green onions to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Prepare Lettuce Wraps: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the center of each lettuce leaf. Top with remaining green onions.
7. Serve: Arrange the filled lettuce leaves on a platter and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

When preparing Asian-Inspired Chicken Lettuce Wraps, remember that the key to a successful wrap is crisp, fresh lettuce. Butter lettuce is ideal due to its sturdy yet delicate leaves, but iceberg or romaine can be used as alternatives.

For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top of the wraps. If you’re serving guests, you can offer additional toppings like shredded carrots or bean sprouts for a personalized touch.

Finally, if you’re making these wraps ahead of time, keep the chicken mixture and lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve, to maintain the lettuce’s crunch.

BBQ Chicken Pizza With Homemade Crust

BBQ Chicken Pizza With Homemade Crust is a delightful twist on traditional pizza that brings together the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with the savory taste of ground chicken. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a unique and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

The combination of a homemade crust, seasoned ground chicken, and your favorite toppings makes this a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit different tastes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy jalapenos or prefer the crunch of fresh onions, this pizza can be tailored to fit any preference.

Creating the homemade crust is an essential part of this recipe, providing a fresh and flavorful base for the toppings. The crust is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. Once the dough is prepared, it’s topped with a tangy barbecue sauce, followed by a generous layer of seasoned ground chicken. The pizza is then finished with a blend of cheeses and your choice of additional toppings, before being baked to perfection.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family meal or sharing with friends.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional toppings: sliced jalapenos, red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the olive oil and warm water, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Cook the Chicken: While the dough is rising, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to your desired thickness, approximately 12-14 inches in diameter for a large pizza.
5. Assemble the Pizza: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or baking sheet. Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the cooked ground chicken evenly over the sauce, followed by the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Add the red onion slices and any additional toppings you desire.
6. Bake the Pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated oven or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and browned.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the best crust, make sure your water is at the right temperature (110°F) when mixing with the yeast. This helps the yeast activate properly.

If you prefer a thicker crust, let the dough rise for an additional 30 minutes before rolling it out. For a bit of extra flavor, brush the crust with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder before adding the toppings.

Ultimately, if you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet will work just fine—just make sure it’s preheated to guarantee a crispy crust.

Ground Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

Ground Chicken and Vegetable Skillet is a delightful, family-friendly dish that brings together the savory flavor of ground chicken with the freshness of mixed vegetables. This one-pan meal isn’t only quick and easy to prepare but also nutritious, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.

Its versatility allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to incorporate more veggies into your family’s diet. The combination of lean protein and vegetables will satisfy everyone’s taste buds while keeping the meal healthy and balanced.

This dish is particularly convenient for busy families, as it requires minimal cleanup and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes. The recipe serves 4-6 people, providing enough for the whole family with possibly some leftovers for the next day’s lunch.

The ground chicken absorbs the flavors of the spices and vegetables, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. Serve it as is or pair it with rice, quinoa, or pasta to complete the meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, chop the bell peppers, and slice the zucchini. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set all the vegetables aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break up the chicken into smaller pieces. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Vegetables: Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped bell peppers, sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and frozen corn to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Season the Skillet: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to guarantee that the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Cook and Combine: Allow the vegetables to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender but still crisp. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Finish and Serve: Once everything is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the ground chicken and vegetable skillet hot, either on its own or with a side of rice, quinoa, or pasta.

Extra Tips:

When making Ground Chicken and Vegetable Skillet, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or what your family prefers.

Consider adding mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

To save time, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.