Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal option, seasoned ground chicken is an excellent choice. It’s easy to prepare and can be used in various dishes, including tacos, salads, or served over rice. The combination of spices enhances the chicken’s natural flavor, making it a delightful option for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground chicken
1 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Prep Time
The prep time for this recipe is minimal, taking about 10 minutes to gather and measure your ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Total Time: Around 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
To create a flavorful seasoned ground chicken, follow these simple steps. Start by mixing the salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme in a small bowl. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the chopped onion, sautéing until it is translucent. Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet and sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken. Cook the chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Finally, drain any excessive fat or liquid from the skillet and serve the seasoned ground chicken as desired. Enjoy this versatile dish in your favorite meals!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Ground Chicken
Once the onion is ready, add the ground chicken to the skillet.
Step 5: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture evenly over the ground chicken in the skillet.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken
Cook the chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Continue cooking until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 7: Drain Excess Fat
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat or liquid from the skillet.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the seasoned ground chicken as desired. It can be used in various dishes such as tacos, salads, or served with rice.
Notes
Storage
Leftover seasoned ground chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, the cooked ground chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Feel free to add other spices or herbs to customize the flavor according to your preference. Consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture.
Cook techniques
Seasoning
Combine the salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and dried thyme in a small bowl to create a well-balanced seasoning blend for the chicken.
Sautéing Onions
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chopped onion, cooking until it is translucent to enhance the flavor base of your dish.
Cooking Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Break it apart with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning and a uniform texture.
Draining Excess Fat
Once the chicken is fully cooked, drain any excess fat or liquid from the skillet to avoid a greasy dish and enhance the overall flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with other ground meats such as turkey, beef, or pork, but the cooking time may vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spiciness, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce into the seasoning mix.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can cook the seasoned ground chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What dishes can I serve this with?
The seasoned ground chicken pairs well with rice, pasta, salads, or as a filling for wraps and tacos.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover seasoned ground chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Conclusion
This seasoned ground chicken recipe is simple, delicious, and versatile. The combination of spices enhances the flavor, making it a perfect filling for various dishes or a standalone meal. Enjoy the nutritious benefits of ground chicken while experimenting with different serving options.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Tacos
Use the seasoned ground chicken as a filling for soft or hard taco shells. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite salsa for a delicious meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Mix the seasoned ground chicken with cooked rice or quinoa and stuff into halved bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a healthy, colorful dish.
Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Serve the seasoned ground chicken in fresh lettuce leaves, adding shredded carrots, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a light and flavorful appetizer or main dish.
Chicken Spaghetti
Toss the cooked ground chicken with spaghetti and your choice of marinara sauce. Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Chicken Fried Rice
Mix the seasoned ground chicken into fried rice along with vegetables like peas, carrots, and green onions for a quick and satisfying meal.
Chicken Quesadillas
Layer the seasoned ground chicken and cheese between tortillas, cook on a skillet until golden brown, then slice and serve with sour cream and guacamole for a tasty snack or dinner option.
