Firecracker Ground Chicken
Firecracker Ground Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that packs a punch! This quick stir-fry combines lean ground chicken with fresh broccoli, tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. I first tried this recipe during a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite due to its bold flavors and satisfying texture. If you’re seeking a dish that’s both speedy and delightful, you’ve come to the right place!
Why you’ll love this dish
This Firecracker Ground Chicken recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it’s also incredibly practical. If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this dish makes for a fantastic choice. It comes together in under 30 minutes, which means you can have a delicious homemade meal even on your busiest days. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and kid-approved, making it a winner for family dinners. The balance of protein from the chicken and vitamins from the broccoli ensures that you’re serving up something nutritious.
"This dish has become a staple in our household! The flavors are incredible, and I love how quick it is to make. My kids can’t get enough of it!" – Satisfied Eater
The cooking process explained
Making Firecracker Ground Chicken is a breeze! In just a few steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table. The process involves quickly sautéing vegetables, browning the chicken, and tossing everything together with a sweet and spicy sauce. Preparation takes minimal effort, making this recipe perfect for those who want to whip up something special without spending all evening in the kitchen.
What you’ll need
Gather these items before you get started so you can enjoy a smooth cooking experience:
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (choose mild and sweet or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic (grated or minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
Feel free to swap the ground chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until everything is well combined. Set this sauce aside for now.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and completely cooked through.
- Toss in the chopped broccoli, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine well with the chicken.
- Pour the prepared firecracker sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Garnish your stir-fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
- Spoon the Firecracker Ground Chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or serve in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Firecracker Ground Chicken is where you can let your creativity shine! For a classic approach, serve it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to absorb all those tasty flavors. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try pairing it with quinoa or brown rice. For a fun twist, you can create lettuce wraps for a fresh and crunchy bite. Add a side of crispy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers? No problem! Store any extra Firecracker Ground Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure it’s heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sesame oil when cooking the chicken.
- If you like it spicy, increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables—bell peppers or snap peas work beautifully in this stir-fry.
Creative twists
While the traditional recipe is fantastic, you can easily customize it! Swap out the buffalo sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, soy-flavored dish. Add in some crushed pineapple for a tropical flair or sprinkle in some nuts like cashews or peanuts for added crunch. You can also make it vegetarian by replacing ground chicken with crumbled tofu or chickpeas.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Firecracker Ground Chicken?
Preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option for busy weeknights.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While you can use frozen chicken, it’s best to thaw it first to ensure even cooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
Other vegetables like cauliflower, snap peas, or bell peppers can also be used to great effect.
Firecracker Ground Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until well combined. Set aside.
- Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced onion and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and completely cooked through.
- Toss in the chopped broccoli, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well with the chicken.
- Pour the prepared firecracker sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
