Juicy Ground Chicken Kids Recipe
Are you on the lookout for a quick and satisfying meal that even your kids will love? Look no further! This juicy ground chicken recipe combines nutritious ingredients with delicious flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With a handful of simple ingredients and just a few steps, you can create a dish that turns family dinners into delightful culinary gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile—great over rice or pasta, ensuring it suits whatever you’re in the mood for!
What Makes This Recipe Special
This juicy ground chicken dish is not only budget-friendly but also perfect for kids! Packed with protein and colorful bell peppers, it brings a nutritional punch without compromising on taste. Whether you’re juggling work and home life, or simply looking to whip up a kid-approved meal in a flash, this recipe is your answer. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when time is scarce but family bonding is essential.
"This dish was a hit with my kids! They loved the flavors, and I loved how easy it was to prepare. It’s now a staple in our dinner rotation!"
Preparing Juicy Ground Chicken Kids Recipe
Crafting this delicious meal involves quickly sautéing vegetables and browning ground chicken. It’s all about layering flavors—first, you’ll cook the aromatic onions and garlic, then add bell peppers for some crunch and color before finally incorporating the ground chicken. The whole process is straightforward and delivers delightful results every time.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or pasta (for serving)
If you’re keen to customize, consider swapping the bell pepper for zucchini or adding in some corn for sweetness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and continue to cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
- Season your mixture with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Serve the savory mixture over your choice of cooked rice or pasta.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve this dish beautifully, consider serving it in bowls or on plates with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil. You can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, let the kids add their favorite toppings—like shredded cheese or a dollop of salsa.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your leftovers? Place any remaining cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure safety and quality.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, try marinating the ground chicken for an hour before cooking!
- If your kids love veggies, add more! Shredded carrots or chopped spinach can easily be incorporated without altering the taste.
- Ensure you cook the chicken thoroughly—an internal temperature of 165°F ensures food safety!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Switch up the ingredients! Try adding curry powder for a different flavor profile or use ground turkey instead of chicken. You can also make it a one-pot meal by adding cooked quinoa or beans to increase the fiber content.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 15-20 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use gluten-free pasta or rice, and verify that all your seasonings are gluten-free.
How should I reheat leftovers?
You can safely reheat leftovers in a microwave, on the stovetop, or in an oven until heated through to about 165°F.
Juicy Ground Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper and continue to cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
- Season your mixture with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine.
- Serve the savory mixture over your choice of cooked rice or pasta.
