Ground Chicken Recipes Asian For Delicious Summer Bbqs
Summer BBQs are all about vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and easy-to-make recipes that impress your guests. One of the most versatile proteins for grilling is ground chicken. Not only is it lean and healthy, but it also absorbs flavors beautifully, making it perfect for a variety of Asian-inspired dishes. In this article, we will explore a selection of delicious ground chicken recipes that will elevate your summer barbecue game and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs or mold them onto skewers for easier grilling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using skewers, oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the meatballs or skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
More Ground Chicken Asian Inspirations
While the grilled skewers are a hit, there are many other ways to incorporate ground chicken into your summer BBQ menu. Here are a few more recipes that are sure to please your guests:
1. Asian Lettuce Wraps
These fresh and crunchy wraps are a fantastic way to enjoy ground chicken. The combination of savory chicken and crisp lettuce leaves offers a delightful contrast.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 3 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 head of butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add water chestnuts, carrots, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
2. Spicy Thai Ground Chicken Tacos
Give traditional tacos an Asian twist with these spicy Thai ground chicken tacos. They are perfect for a summer BBQ and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tbsp chili paste
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sugar
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Sliced jalapeños for heat (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chili paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until heated through.
- Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a separate skillet.
- Assemble tacos by placing ground chicken mixture on tortillas, topping with shredded cabbage, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
3. Asian Chicken Meatballs with Dipping Sauce
These flavorful meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish. They pair wonderfully with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp green onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onion, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix honey and sriracha to create a dipping sauce.
- Serve meatballs warm with dipping sauce on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and can be used in any of the recipes provided.
2. How do I prevent ground chicken from drying out on the grill?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Using marinades can also help retain moisture. A little fat, like sesame oil, can add flavor and juiciness.
3. What are some good side dishes to serve with ground chicken recipes?
Consider serving grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. These pair well with the Asian flavors of ground chicken.
4. Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill or bake. Just ensure to follow proper food safety guidelines.
Conclusion
Incorporating ground chicken into your summer BBQ menu not only adds variety but also promotes healthier eating without sacrificing flavor. These Asian-inspired recipes are easy to follow and perfect for entertaining, whether you are hosting a big gathering or enjoying a quiet meal with family. Try one or all of these delicious ground chicken recipes this summer and watch them become a staple in your BBQ repertoire!
