You want easy, healthy, and low-carb meals that don’t taste like punishment. Ground chicken is your answer. It’s lean, versatile, and cooks faster than your attention span on TikTok.
Forget dry, boring chicken—this recipe keeps it juicy, flavorful, and packed with protein. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just hungry now, this dish delivers. Ready to make your taste buds and macros happy?
Let’s go.
What Makes This Recipe a Game-Changer
Ground chicken is the underrated hero of the protein world. It’s lower in fat than beef but still packs a flavor punch when seasoned right. This recipe skips the carbs without sacrificing satisfaction.
Plus, it’s customizable—swap spices, add veggies, or turn it into a lettuce wrap. Meal prep? Done.
Quick dinner? Easy. Your future self will thank you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground chicken (90% lean for best results)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (because fresh garlic is a commitment)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that “I know what I’m doing” flavor)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup diced zucchini (optional, for sneaky veggie points)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens everything up)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, aka Instagram appeal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Don’t walk away—this isn’t a Netflix show.
- Add the ground chicken and break it up with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes).
- Toss in the spices (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper). Stir like you mean it.
- Add zucchini (if using) and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
You’re basically a chef now.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with parsley. Serve hot or pack for meal prep.
How to Store It (So It Doesn’t Die in Your Fridge)
Let the cooked chicken cool before storing. Use an airtight container—it keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave, but don’t nuke it into rubber.
Why This Recipe Wins at Life
High protein, low carb, and ready in 15 minutes? Check. Ground chicken is cheaper than therapy and more filling than a motivational podcast.
The zucchini adds fiber without carbs, and the spices make it taste like you put in effort. Spoiler: You didn’t.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Dry chicken is a crime. Stop cooking when it’s just done.
- Underseasoning: Chicken needs flavor.
Don’t be shy.
- Skipping the lemon juice: It’s the difference between “meh” and “more, please.”
- Using high-fat chicken: Stick to 90% lean unless you love greasy leftovers.
Alternatives for the Adventurous (or Lazy)
- Swap ground turkey for chicken—it’s basically the same thing.
- Add spinach instead of zucchini for extra iron.
- Turn it into tacos with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
- Top with avocado because fat makes everything better.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground chicken?
Yes, but thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken leads to uneven results—nobody wants a half-raw, half-burnt mess.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With 2g net carbs per serving, it’s keto-approved.
Just skip the zucchini if you’re ultra-strict.
What sides pair well with this?
Try cauliflower rice, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple salad. Or eat it straight from the pan—we won’t judge.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes, and you should. It reheats well and saves you from desperate takeout orders.
Why does my chicken stick to the pan?
Your pan wasn’t hot enough, or you didn’t use enough oil.
Non-stick pans help, but don’t blame the recipe for user error.
Final Thoughts
Ground chicken is the lazy cook’s secret weapon. This recipe is fast, healthy, and adaptable—no fancy skills required. Whether you’re keto, low-carb, or just hungry, it’s a win.
Now go cook something that doesn’t suck.