When it comes to mealtime, ground beef and ground pork usually steal the show, leaving ground chicken in the shadows. However, ground chicken has its advantages. It is not only lighter and more tender but also affordable, high in protein, and bursting with flavor.
Versatile and delicious
Ground chicken is incredibly versatile. You can use it to make mouthwatering burgers and meatballs, or as a filling in sauces for various dishes. It pairs wonderfully with manicotti noodles, enchiladas, lasagnas, and chili. You can even substitute ground chicken for beef or pork in your favorite spaghetti sauce, or use it as a pizza topping. Let your imagination run wild!
Ground chicken needs friends
Lean ground chicken is a healthier option compared to beef or pork because it contains less saturated fat. However, its lower fat content can sometimes make it dry. But fear not, there are simple solutions to this issue. Ground chicken just needs a little help from its friends—ingredients that contribute fat, moisture, and flavor.
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Add some spice! Ground chicken is perfect for taco night. Just sprinkle in some chili powder, salt, and pepper for an extra kick.
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Enhance the fat content and flavor. Add chopped bacon (or bacon fat), pork, or beef to the ground chicken. Even a small amount can go a long way in improving moisture and taste.
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Stock it up! Chicken, vegetable, or beef stock can be added, but be careful not to overdo it. Store-bought stocks often contain high levels of salt, so taste the dish before adding extra salt.
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Yogurt for moisture. Yogurt with a high fat content is a great addition, particularly for meatballs. It adds moisture and flavor, preventing your recipe from turning out dry. You can also use tahini (ground sesame paste) for an extra boost of flavor and moisture.
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Eggs for binding. Eggs are excellent for holding meat and other ingredients together. They work well in meatballs and hamburger patties. Just don’t add them directly to the frying pan unless you want meaty scrambled eggs.
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Oils, chillies, and spices. Oils help prevent the meat from drying out, while chillies and spices add a burst of flavor and spice to your dish.
Handle with care
As with any raw poultry, it’s crucial to handle ground chicken with care due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria like salmonella. Always remember to wash your hands, tools, and surfaces with soap and water before and after handling raw chicken.
Cooking ground chicken to perfection
To ensure ground chicken is cooked properly, pay attention to its color and texture:
- The liquid from the chicken should run clear, not pink or red.
- The meat should be white and firm.
If you’ve added other ingredients to the ground chicken, it may be challenging to check its color. Here’s a tip: cook the ground chicken by itself until fully cooked, then add spices, pastes, or other liquids and ingredients.
Lean ground chicken cooks quickly, typically in 5 to 7 minutes. To avoid drying it out, cook it over lower-medium heat for a longer period. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary if you add other meats, fats, or oils.
No need to drain the liquid from ground chicken unless a specific recipe calls for it. Those flavorful juices shouldn’t go to waste!
Storing ground chicken
To safely store ground chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure that the fridge temperature is no higher than 4°C.
Cooking with ground chicken opens up a world of delicious possibilities. So next time you’re planning a meal, don’t overlook this underrated ingredient. Give it a try, and let your taste buds be pleasantly surprised!
Remember, for more cooking inspiration, visit Ekilove. Happy cooking!
