Ground chicken is handy, but sometimes it’s just not in the fridge when we need it. We’ve all been there—mid-recipe, scraping around for a quick alternative.
Good news, though, there are several options that work just as well.
We’ve tried a few ourselves, swapping in whatever was available, and the results surprised us. Some of these substitutes bring similar textures, while others add a little extra flavor.
They’re easy swaps, and they keep the recipe on track without any hassle. It’s all about making do with what we’ve got and getting creative in the process.

5 Quick Substitutes for Ground Chicken
Here’s a list of five ingredients that can work as substitutes for ground chicken in recipes. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new!
1 – Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is a simple swap when ground chicken isn’t available.
We use it in a 1:1 ratio, and it works well in most recipes like stir-fries, burgers, or pasta dishes. It has a similar texture, so there’s no big adjustment needed.
The flavor is slightly richer, which can be a nice twist depending on the dish. It’s easy to season and blends well with spices or marinades.
Plus, it’s readily available, making this swap quick and hassle-free. Ground turkey keeps things moving smoothly when ground chicken is off the table, staying just as versatile and reliable.
2 – Ground Beef
Ground beef can save the day when ground chicken isn’t around.
We use it in a 1:1 ratio, and it works in recipes like sloppy joes, stuffed peppers, or spaghetti sauce. The texture holds up, so there’s no weird adjustments to worry about.
What’s cool is how versatile it is, adding a bolder, richer flavor that can really upgrade certain dishes. It takes on spices and sauces easily, making it a solid option for meals with strong flavors.
Plus, it’s everywhere, so grabbing some is never an issue. It’s a practical swap that can bring its own personality to a meal.
3 – Ground Pork
Ground pork is one of those swaps that just works when ground chicken isn’t on hand.
We use it in a 1:1 ratio, and it’s great for dishes like dumplings, meatloaf, or stir-fries. The texture is similar, so it slides right into recipes without issue.
It’s slightly richer in flavor, giving meals a bit more oomph. Seasonings and sauces pair easily with it, making it adaptable for different dishes.
Plus, it’s easy to find at most grocery stores, so it’s super convenient. For more ideas, check out these ground pork substitutes.
4 – Lentils (for a vegetarian option)
Lentils might not seem obvious, but they’re solid when ground chicken is a no-show.
We use cooked lentils in a 1:1 ratio, and they work great in dishes like tacos, meatballs, or sloppy joes. Their soft texture blends well, holding up with seasonings and sauces.
What’s nice is how they give recipes a hearty, plant-based spin without being too overwhelming.
They’re affordable, packed with nutrients, and super easy to find at any grocery store. Lentils bring a mild flavor, which makes them easy to pair with bold spices. For more ideas, check out these lentil substitutes.
5 – Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) makes a smart swap when ground chicken isn’t available.
We rehydrate TVP and use it in a 1:1 ratio, making it perfect for chili, tacos, or pasta sauces. Its crumbly texture mimics ground chicken nicely, so it blends right in.
It’s also a plant-based option, which is great for anyone looking to shake up their meals. It soaks up flavors really well, so seasonings and spices shine through. Affordable and shelf-stable, TVP is easy to stock up on for last-minute recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, ground turkey is a popular substitute for ground chicken. It has a slightly different flavor but offers a lean and juicy alternative, perfect for burgers, tacos, and casseroles.
Ground beef can work well in place of ground chicken, though it has a richer, fattier flavor. It’s a great substitute for heartier dishes like meatballs or meat sauces.
Ground pork is a versatile substitute, adding a slightly sweet and savory flavor. It works well in stir-fries, sausages, or as a filling for dumplings and tacos.
Lentils are a fantastic vegetarian substitute for ground chicken. They absorb flavors well and provide a hearty, protein-packed alternative, especially in curries, tacos, and wraps.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.