There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a savory dish simmering on the stove—especially when it involves the wholesome combination of ground chicken and rice. Whether you’re winding down after a long day, prepping for a family dinner, or looking for a healthier alternative to classic comfort food, ground chicken and rice recipes are a dependable go-to. These recipes are easy to customize, cost-effective, and packed with protein—perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead lunches.

This collection of recipes is inspired by my grandmother’s Sunday kitchen rituals, where frugality met flavor in the most satisfying ways. With a few simple ingredients, she could craft meals that brought everyone to the table. Over time, I’ve reimagined those homey meals with global influences—from Asian stir-fries to Mediterranean bowls—all centered around the versatile duo of ground chicken and rice.

Let’s dive into some irresistible recipes that will bring warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table.

Why Choose Ground Chicken and Rice?

Lean, Affordable, and Versatile

Ground chicken is a lean source of protein that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. When paired with rice—be it white, brown, jasmine, or basmati—it creates a filling and balanced meal that’s easy on the wallet.

Great for Meal Prepping

These recipes are perfect for bulk cooking. Make a large batch on Sunday, and you’ll have lunches or dinners sorted for the week.

Globally Inspired Options

From Thai basil chicken to Cajun-seasoned rice bowls, ground chicken and rice are the perfect canvas for international flavors.

1. Classic Ground Chicken and Rice Skillet

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

2. Add ground chicken, cooking until browned and no longer pink.

3. Stir in the rice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

5. Add peas and carrots, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked.

6. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe is a one-pan wonder. It’s quick, satisfying, and ideal for weeknights when you need something cozy without the fuss.

2. Spicy Thai Basil Ground Chicken with Jasmine Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 Thai chilies (adjust to taste), minced

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 tbsp fish sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves

• Cooked jasmine rice

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic and chilies until fragrant.

2. Add onion and cook until softened.

3. Add ground chicken, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns.

4. Stir in fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.

5. Cook until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through.

6. Remove from heat and stir in Thai basil leaves until wilted.

7. Serve over steamed jasmine rice.

Pro Tip:

For extra flavor, add a fried egg on top and a wedge of lime for a street-food-style finish.

3. Mediterranean Ground Chicken and Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup cooked brown rice

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tbsp hummus or tzatziki sauce

• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté briefly.

2. Add ground chicken, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Cook until browned.

3. To serve, layer brown rice in a bowl, top with seasoned chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki.

4. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Why This Works:

This recipe blends the warm spices of the Mediterranean with fresh, crunchy vegetables. It’s both nutritious and refreshingly light—great for lunch or a summer dinner.

4. Cajun Ground Chicken Dirty Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1 small bell pepper, chopped

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken, breaking it up as it browns.

2. Add Cajun seasoning, bell pepper, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.

3. Stir in cooked rice and chicken broth. Let simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

4. Sprinkle with green onions before serving.

Make It a Meal:

Pair with a side of sautéed greens or cornbread for a full Southern-style dinner.

5. Ground Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 3 cups cold, cooked rice

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

• 1/2 onion, chopped

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok. Add onion and cook until softened.

2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.

3. Push chicken to the side. Add beaten eggs and scramble.

4. Stir in cold rice, peas, and carrots. Mix thoroughly.

5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Cook until heated through.

6. Sprinkle with green onions and serve hot.

Quick Tip:

Always use day-old rice for fried rice recipes to avoid soggy results.

Helpful Tips for Cooking with Ground Chicken and Rice

1. Avoid Overcooking Ground Chicken

Because it’s lean, ground chicken can dry out if overcooked. Cook just until it’s no longer pink and then remove it from heat if possible.

2. Use Broth Instead of Water for Rice

Cooking rice in chicken broth instead of water can elevate the flavor dramatically, especially in one-pot recipes.

3. Freeze for Future Meals

Ground chicken and rice dishes freeze exceptionally well. Just portion into airtight containers, let cool, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Variations to Try

Asian-Inspired Lettuce Wrap Bowls

Use ground chicken cooked with hoisin and soy sauce, and serve over rice in crisp lettuce cups.

Ground Chicken Burrito Bowls

Mix seasoned ground chicken with black beans, corn, salsa, and rice. Top with avocado or shredded cheese.

Greek Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers

Combine ground chicken and herbed rice, then stuff into bell peppers and bake with tomato sauce.

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