Are you tired of the same old boring meals? Look no further! Ground beef and chicken are two staple proteins that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious dishes. From tacos to pasta, meatballs to casseroles, these versatile ingredients can be used to satisfy any craving. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful recipes that feature ground beef and chicken as the main attraction.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to please. From classic comfort foods like shepherd’s pie and sloppy joes to international-inspired dishes like empanadas and gyro wraps, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Spicy Ground Beef and Chicken Tacos
Add a spicy twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful recipe that combines ground beef and chicken with bold spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion, garlic, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked beef and chicken mixture, topped with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef and Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines tender chicken and ground beef with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a deliciously flavorful package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until fully cooked.
4. Stir in Alfredo sauce and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta and meat mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef and chicken with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chicken until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with meat mixture and top with cooked rice and cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Ground Beef and Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful combination of ground beef and chicken meatballs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chicken breast, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, and oregano.
3. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Chili with Beans
This classic chili recipe combines the flavors of ground beef and chicken with the comfort of beans, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add the kidney beans to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Chicken Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, these cheesy wraps combine the flavors of ground beef and chicken for a satisfying and filling meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 8-10 tortillas
– Cooking spray or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef in the skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the cooked chicken, chopped onion, and bell pepper to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
5. Place a tortilla in the pan and sprinkle one-fourth cup of cheese on half of the tortilla.
6. Add about 1/4 cup of the beef-chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy, flipping halfway through.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
This hearty shepherd’s pie combines ground beef and chicken with sautéed vegetables, topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, chicken, onion, and garlic in a large skillet until the meat is browned.
3. Add frozen vegetables, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A hearty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the richness of ground beef and chicken with a variety of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through.
4. Add the remaining ingredients (onion, garlic, mixed vegetables) and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats
This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, chicken, and zucchini in a deliciously savory dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. By hollowing out the zucchinis and filling them with a rich meat mixture, you’ll create a satisfying and healthy meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked chicken, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, topping with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Bolognese Sauce
This hearty sauce combines ground beef and chicken for a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this bolognese sauce is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until the chicken is cooked through and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve over pasta, such as spaghetti or pappardelle.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Enchiladas
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the tender bite of chicken, all wrapped up in a deliciously spicy enchilada. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked chicken breast and season with salt and pepper.
5. Brush both sides of tortillas with vegetable oil and warm in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning meat mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and meat mixture.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Sloppy Joes
A flavorful fusion of ground beef and chicken takes sloppy joes to the next level! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned tomato sauce
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or serving vessels
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cooked chicken, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot on hamburger buns or in serving vessels.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
These savory cabbage rolls are a delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers or cabbage rolls, combining the flavors of ground beef and chicken for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1/4 cup rice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove cabbage leaves from the head, blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chicken, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Stir in tomato paste and rice; add water and bring to a simmer.
6. Lay cabbage leaves flat; place 1/4 cup of meat mixture onto the center of each leaf.
7. Roll up tightly, placing seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Ground Beef and Chicken Lasagna
This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef and chicken with the comforting layers of lasagna, creating a satisfying and filling meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chicken over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
7. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of meat sauce on the bottom, followed by noodles, then the ricotta mixture, and finally mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 3-4 layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Ground Beef and Chicken Empanadas
Empanadas are a staple in Latin American cuisine, and this recipe combines the flavors of ground beef and chicken for a unique twist. These savory pastries are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until combined.
3. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter.
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each square. Fold and press edges together to seal.
5. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Meatloaf with Glaze
Elevate your meatloaf game with this savory blend of ground beef and chicken, topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Glaze ingredients: 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together ketchup, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
6. Brush the glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Nachos Supreme
Elevate your nacho game with this flavorful recipe that combines juicy ground beef and chicken with creamy cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and a medley of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1/2 cup refried beans
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 tortilla chips
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chicken, refried beans, black beans, chili powder, and cumin. Cook until heated through.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with meat mixture, shredded cheese, and optional toppings.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Gyro Wraps
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering Ground Beef and Chicken Gyro Wraps, packed with juicy flavor and crispy texture. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads or gyro wraps
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook ground beef and chicken until browned, breaking into small pieces as they cook.
3. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until flavors combine.
5. Warm pita breads according to package instructions.
6. Assemble wraps by spooning meat mixture onto pita bread and topping with tzatziki sauce.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of ground beef, the tenderness of chicken, and the earthiness of mushrooms. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Chicken Pizza Topping
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of ground beef and chicken, perfect for a crowd-pleasing topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite pizza seasonings or herbs (e.g., oregano, basil)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced chicken, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated and heated through.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and your desired pizza seasonings or herbs (if using).
5. Spread the topping mixture evenly onto your favorite pizza dough or crust.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 flavorful ground beef and chicken recipes! From tacos to pasta, meatballs to chili, and everything in between, this collection has something for every occasion. Try Spicy Ground Beef and Chicken Tacos, Creamy Ground Beef and Chicken Alfredo Pasta, or classic Ground Beef and Chicken Shepherd’s Pie. Or, go bold with Savory Ground Beef and Chicken Meatballs or Cheesy Ground Beef and Chicken Quesadillas. Whatever your craving, you’ll find a delicious recipe to satisfy it in this roundup of 20 mouthwatering dishes.