Ground chicken is an extremely versatile ingredient that can be used to make delicious, budget-friendly meals. When cooked properly, ground chicken makes for flavorful tacos, pastas, and more. Here are two easy recipes for cooking ground chicken for tacos and pasta dishes.

1. How To Cook Ground Chicken for Tacos

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Taco shells or tortillas, toppings

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned through.

Mix in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to allow spices to become fragrant.

Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice.

Serve the ground chicken in taco shells or tortillas, topped with desired taco toppings like shredded lettuce, tomato, cheese, salsa, guacamole, etc.

This easy skillet ground chicken cooks up juicy and flavorful, perfect for tacos and other Mexican dishes. Adjust spices to your taste.

2. How To Cook Ground Chicken for Pasta

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Saute the onions for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until browned through, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in the white wine or broth. Let simmer for 2 minutes. Mix in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the bolognese sauce for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld. Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat.

Serve the chicken penne bolognese warm, topped with Parmesan cheese.

The browned ground chicken gives this pasta dish a meaty texture and savory flavor. For extra veggies, add chopped spinach or broccoli to the sauce.

Ground chicken is lower in fat than ground beef but still offers great texture and flavor. Next time you’re looking for a lighter, budget option for dinner, reach for ground chicken and whip up tacos, pasta, or whatever your family craves.

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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