GROUND CHICKEN TACO BOWLS

If your house is currently a standoff between a picky eater and anything green, this recipe is for you. Born out of a desperate need to move past the Mac and Cheese phase, these taco bowls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re packed with hidden nutrients and were the very first way I got my son to embrace ground chicken. Healthy, customizable, and toddler-certified!

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 LB GROUND CHICKEN

• 1/2 MEDIUM ZUCCHINI FINELY CHOPPED

• 1/2 MEDIUM YELLOW SQUASH FINELY CHOPPED

• 1/2 SWEET ONION FINELY CHOPPED

• 1/2 CUP SPINACH FINELY CHOPPED

• 1/2 TABLESPOON GRATED GARLIC

• 1/2 CAN OF ROTEL

• 1 PACKET OF YOUR FAVORITE TACO SEASONING (i like using desert dust taco seasoning)

COOKING DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.

2. Sauté the aromatics: Once the oil is shimmering, add the onion and any other vegetables you’re using. Sauté until the veggies have softened.

3. Sear the meat: Push the softened vegetables to the side of the pan. Add the ground chicken (or turkey) to the center. Let it cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes on each side; this develops a golden sear that provides a meaty texture and prevents the chicken from becoming "mushy."

4. Crumble: Using a meat masher or wooden spoon, break the chicken into finely crumbled pieces as it finishes cooking.

5. Season: Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, and Rotel. Mix well to ensure the meat and veggies are thoroughly coated.

6. Wilt the greens: Add the fresh spinach to the pan.

7. Simmer: Mix everything together until well incorporated. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the chicken is fully cooked through.

8. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

ASSEMBLING THE BOWLS:

• The Base: Start with a generous scoop of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

• The Star: Add a big portion of your veggie-packed ground chicken mixture.

• The Creamy Factor: Top with sliced avocado and a generous drizzle of your favorite dressing! We love Tessemae's Habanero Ranch

• The Crunch: Sprinkle on some shredded lettuce, or even a few crushed tortilla chips.

• The Zing: Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro.

Meal prep containers with balanced meals ready for busy family lunches