26+ Delicious Ground Chicken Lunch Recipes to Try Today

Ground chicken is an incredibly versatile and lean protein that makes for delicious, healthy lunches the whole family can enjoy.

Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or hearty and comforting, ground chicken can be transformed into countless flavorful dishes.

From stir-fries and lettuce wraps to casseroles and tacos, the possibilities are endless.

With over 26 ground chicken lunch recipes to explore, you’ll find easy-to-make meals that fit your busy lifestyle and satisfy a variety of tastes — all while keeping your lunches nutritious and exciting.

26+ Delicious Ground Chicken Lunch Recipes to Try Today

These 26+ ground chicken lunch recipes show just how adaptable and tasty ground chicken can be.

Whether you prefer bold Asian-inspired flavors, comforting baked dishes, or quick skillet meals, this collection offers plenty of options to keep your lunches fresh and satisfying.

By incorporating these recipes into your meal rotation, you’ll save time in the kitchen and enjoy flavorful, wholesome meals that fuel your day and please your family.

Ground Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Ground chicken lettuce wraps are a light yet flavorful lunch option that combines savory, slightly sweet chicken filling with crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh bite.

This recipe is quick to make and perfect for a healthy midday meal that feels satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Hoisin sauce or a touch of honey
  • Green onions (sliced)
  • Water chestnuts (chopped, optional)
  • Lettuce leaves (butter or romaine)

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add garlic, ginger, and cook until fragrant.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce or honey, and water chestnuts. Cook until well combined and heated through.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in green onions.
  5. Spoon the mixture into washed lettuce leaves and serve immediately.

These lettuce wraps are a refreshing, tasty lunch that balances protein with fresh veggies.

The combination of savory chicken and crisp lettuce makes it a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for warmer days or when you want something light but filling.

Ground Chicken Meatball Soup

Ground chicken meatball soup is a comforting and hearty lunch that brings warm flavors and tender chicken meatballs to a flavorful broth filled with vegetables.

It’s a nourishing and satisfying meal ideal for cooler days or when you want a wholesome bowl to recharge.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Garlic and onion (minced)
  • Egg
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Chicken broth
  • Carrots, celery, and spinach
  • Salt, pepper, and herbs (parsley or thyme)

Instructions:

  1. Mix ground chicken with garlic, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
  2. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer and add carrots and celery.
  3. Gently add meatballs to the broth and cook until they float and are cooked through.
  4. Stir in spinach and herbs before serving.

This soup is a warm, filling option that’s perfect for a family lunch or meal prep. The tender meatballs and fresh vegetables provide comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

Spicy Ground Chicken Tacos

Spicy ground chicken tacos are a flavorful, quick lunch recipe that’s perfect for busy days.

The ground chicken is cooked with bold spices and topped with fresh salsa and creamy avocado for a delicious and balanced meal that’s easy to assemble and enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika
  • Garlic and onion (minced)
  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh salsa
  • Avocado slices
  • Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet with garlic, onion, and spices until browned and fragrant.
  2. Warm tortillas in a pan or microwave.
  3. Fill tortillas with spiced chicken, top with fresh salsa and avocado slices.
  4. Garnish with lime juice and cilantro before serving.

These tacos deliver a punch of flavor with minimal prep, making them perfect for a tasty family lunch or quick weekday meal.

The blend of spicy chicken and fresh toppings makes every bite exciting and satisfying.

Ground Chicken Stir-Fry

Ground chicken stir-fry is a quick and healthy lunch option packed with vibrant vegetables and savory flavors.

This dish is perfect for busy days when you want something nutritious, easy to prepare, and full of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Sesame oil
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté until fragrant.
  3. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  4. Toss in the vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
  5. Pour soy sauce over the mixture, toss to coat evenly, and cook for another minute.
  6. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

This stir-fry is a colorful, balanced lunch that combines lean protein with fresh veggies.

It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect served over rice or noodles.

Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Ground chicken stuffed peppers are a wholesome and filling lunch recipe that combines seasoned ground chicken with rice and vegetables, baked inside sweet bell peppers.

It’s a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cooked rice
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Bell peppers (halved and seeded)
  • Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
  • Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, then add ground chicken and cook through.
  3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and seasoning.
  4. Spoon the mixture into bell pepper halves and place in a baking dish.
  5. Top with shredded cheese if desired.
  6. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

These stuffed peppers are a delicious way to enjoy a balanced lunch with protein, veggies, and grains all in one dish.

Asian Ground Chicken Bowl

Asian ground chicken bowl is a flavorful and easy lunch recipe featuring savory ground chicken served over rice or greens with crunchy vegetables and a tangy sauce.

It’s a balanced and vibrant meal that’s great for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Rice vinegar and honey
  • Cooked rice or mixed greens
  • Shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and chopped scallions
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet with garlic and ginger until browned.
  2. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey; cook until sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Serve the chicken over rice or greens.
  4. Top with shredded carrots, cucumber, scallions, and sesame seeds.

This bowl offers a satisfying blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors with fresh textures, making it a perfect family lunch that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ground Chicken Chili

Ground chicken chili is a hearty, comforting lunch that’s full of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients.

This recipe swaps traditional beef for lean chicken, making it a lighter yet still satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler days or meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Onion, garlic, and bell peppers (chopped)
  • Canned diced tomatoes
  • Kidney beans or black beans (rinsed)
  • Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano
  • Chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in tomatoes, beans, spices, and chicken broth.
  4. Simmer for 20–30 minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Adjust seasoning and serve hot, optionally with toppings like sour cream or shredded cheese.

This chili is a warming, protein-packed lunch option that’s easy to make in bulk and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy families.

Ground Chicken Sliders

Ground chicken sliders are a fun and flavorful lunch recipe that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual meals.

These mini burgers are juicy and seasoned well, served on small buns with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
  • Small slider buns
  • Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (optional)
  • Condiments like mayo, ketchup, or mustard

Instructions:

  1. Season ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form into small patties and cook in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
  3. Toast slider buns lightly.
  4. Assemble sliders with patties and desired toppings.

These sliders are a crowd-pleaser for lunch, easy to customize, and great for involving kids in meal prep.

Ground Chicken and Zucchini Skillet

Ground chicken and zucchini skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful lunch option that combines lean protein with fresh vegetables.

This one-pan dish is easy to make and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Zucchini (diced)
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
  3. Stir in diced zucchini and Italian seasoning, cooking until zucchini is tender.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.

This skillet meal is nutritious, low-carb, and perfect for a quick lunch that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or satisfaction.

Ground Chicken and Quinoa Bowl

Ground chicken and quinoa bowl is a nutritious and filling lunch recipe that combines lean protein with the wholesome goodness of quinoa and fresh vegetables.

It’s a balanced meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cooked quinoa
  • Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and spinach (chopped)
  • Garlic and onion (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook thoroughly.
  3. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and cooked chicken.
  4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
  5. Toss everything together and serve warm or chilled.

This bowl is a fresh and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick midday meal, offering a great mix of textures and flavors.

Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Ground chicken and sweet potato skillet is a hearty and wholesome lunch that pairs lean protein with nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and spices for a comforting, easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. Add diced sweet potatoes and cook until they start to soften.
  3. Add ground chicken and spices, cook until chicken is browned and sweet potatoes are tender.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This skillet dish is a balanced and flavorful lunch that combines sweetness from the potatoes with savory chicken and spices, perfect for a cozy family meal.

Ground Chicken Asian Lettuce Cups

Ground chicken Asian lettuce cups are a fresh, flavorful, and light lunch option featuring savory chicken seasoned with Asian-inspired sauces and served in crisp lettuce leaves.

They’re quick to make and great for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Rice vinegar
  • Honey or maple syrup
  • Water chestnuts (chopped, optional)
  • Green onions
  • Butter or iceberg lettuce leaves

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken with garlic and ginger until browned.
  2. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey, cooking until sauce thickens.
  3. Add chopped water chestnuts and green onions, mix well.
  4. Spoon mixture into lettuce leaves and serve immediately.

These lettuce cups offer a delicious combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors with a refreshing crunch, perfect for a light and healthy family lunch.

Ground Chicken Pasta

Ground chicken pasta is a quick and satisfying lunch recipe that combines lean ground chicken with your favorite pasta and a savory tomato sauce.

It’s a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
  • Tomato sauce or marinara
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Italian herbs (basil, oregano)
  • Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  3. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and Italian herbs, simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.

This pasta dish is a family-friendly lunch that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekends.

Ground Chicken and Vegetable Skillet

Ground chicken and vegetable skillet is a colorful and healthy lunch option that brings together lean protein and fresh vegetables in one pan.

It’s simple, nutritious, and perfect for a quick meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes (chopped)
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
  3. Add chopped vegetables and Italian seasoning, cooking until veggies are tender.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

This skillet meal is versatile and easy to customize, offering a healthy and satisfying lunch for the entire family.

Ground Chicken Tacos

Ground chicken tacos are a flavorful and easy lunch recipe that’s perfect for casual family meals.

Seasoned ground chicken is served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings for a delicious and customizable meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Taco seasoning
  • Flour or corn tortillas
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded cheese
  • Salsa and sour cream

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet until browned, then add taco seasoning and water according to package instructions.
  2. Warm tortillas and fill them with seasoned chicken.
  3. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, salsa, and sour cream.
  4. Serve immediately.

These tacos are quick, tasty, and perfect for family lunches that everyone can customize to their liking.

Ground Chicken Curry

Ground chicken curry is a flavorful and comforting lunch option that brings warm spices and tender chicken together in a rich, creamy sauce.

It’s perfect for family meals and pairs well with rice or naan bread.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Onion, garlic, and ginger (minced)
  • Curry powder or garam masala
  • Coconut milk or heavy cream
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until soft.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in curry powder and diced tomatoes, cooking for a few minutes.
  4. Pour in coconut milk and simmer until sauce thickens.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice.

This curry is aromatic, creamy, and satisfying—a perfect way to enjoy ground chicken in a deliciously spiced lunch.

Ground Chicken and Spinach Skillet

Ground chicken and spinach skillet is a quick, healthy, and tasty lunch recipe packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich greens.

It’s easy to prepare and makes a balanced meal in one pan.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Fresh spinach
  • Garlic and onion (minced)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
  3. Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

This skillet dish is light yet filling and perfect for a nutritious family lunch or quick weekday meal.

Ground Chicken Fried Rice

Ground chicken fried rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make lunch that uses simple ingredients to create a satisfying dish.

It’s great for using leftover rice and packs plenty of protein and veggies.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • Eggs
  • Peas, carrots, and green onions
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. Scramble eggs in a hot skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil, then add ground chicken and cook thoroughly.
  3. Add peas and carrots, cook until tender.
  4. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs; toss to combine and heat through.
  5. Garnish with green onions before serving.

This fried rice is a delicious and quick lunch option that the whole family will enjoy, offering a great mix of textures and flavors.

Ground Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowls

Ground chicken and black bean burrito bowls are a flavorful, protein-packed lunch option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family meals.

The combination of seasoned chicken, black beans, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • Cooked rice or cauliflower rice
  • Corn kernels
  • Salsa
  • Avocado slices
  • Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Cook ground chicken in a skillet with your favorite taco seasoning until browned and cooked through.
  2. Warm black beans and corn in a separate pan.
  3. Assemble bowls by layering rice, black beans, corn, and seasoned chicken.
  4. Top with salsa, avocado slices, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

These burrito bowls offer fresh, vibrant flavors with plenty of protein and fiber, making them a great choice for a healthy family lunch.

Ground Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry

Ground chicken and mushroom stir-fry is a quick and savory lunch recipe packed with umami flavor and tender chicken.

It’s perfect for a light yet filling meal that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Mushrooms (sliced)
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Green onions for garnish
  • Sesame oil

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Add mushrooms and stir-fry until they release their moisture and become tender.
  4. Pour in soy sauce and cook for another minute.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This stir-fry is a deliciously simple lunch that’s perfect served over rice or noodles and offers a savory depth of flavor.

Ground Chicken and Sweet Corn Fritters

Ground chicken and sweet corn fritters are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for a family lunch that feels like a treat.

These fritters combine tender chicken with sweet corn kernels, herbs, and spices, pan-fried to golden perfection.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Sweet corn kernels
  • Egg
  • Flour or gluten-free flour
  • Green onions and fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt, pepper, and paprika
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, corn, egg, flour, green onions, parsley, and seasonings until well combined.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan and flatten slightly.
  4. Cook fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice.

These fritters are crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and make a fantastic lunch option that kids and adults will both enjoy.

Ground Chicken and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Ground chicken and cabbage stir-fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful lunch option that combines lean protein with crunchy vegetables.

It’s a light yet satisfying dish perfect for a busy family meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Shredded cabbage
  • Garlic and ginger (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Sesame oil
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until tender but still crisp.
  4. Pour in soy sauce and mix well, cooking for another minute.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This stir-fry is light, nutritious, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect quick lunch for the whole family.

Ground Chicken and Sweet Potato Patties

Ground chicken and sweet potato patties are a wholesome and tasty lunch option that combines lean chicken with naturally sweet potatoes for a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
  • Onion and garlic (minced)
  • Egg
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix ground chicken, mashed sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and seasonings until well combined.
  2. Form mixture into patties.
  3. Cook patties in a skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides and cooked through.

These patties are tender and flavorful, perfect served with a side salad or in a bun for a hearty family lunch.

Ground Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Ground chicken and broccoli rice casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make lunch that combines protein, vegetables, and grains in a creamy baked dish.

It’s ideal for meal prep or feeding a family.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cooked rice
  • Broccoli florets (steamed)
  • Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
  • Shredded cheese
  • Onion powder, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, ground chicken, soup, and half the cheese.
  3. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
  4. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

This casserole is a warm, filling lunch that’s perfect for busy families wanting a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort.

Ground Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Ground chicken and cauliflower rice bowl is a low-carb, nutritious lunch option that combines lean protein with light, fluffy cauliflower rice and fresh vegetables.

It’s quick to make and perfect for a healthy family meal.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Cauliflower rice
  • Bell peppers and zucchini (diced)
  • Garlic and onion (minced)
  • Soy sauce or tamari
  • Olive oil
  • Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
  2. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in diced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until tender.
  4. Add cauliflower rice and soy sauce, cooking until heated through.
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

This bowl is a flavorful and satisfying lunch that’s both healthy and easy to prepare.

Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Ground chicken and spinach stuffed mushrooms are a tasty and elegant lunch option that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are perfect for a light meal or appetizer.

Ingredients:

  • Ground chicken
  • Fresh spinach (chopped)
  • Large mushroom caps (stemmed)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sauté garlic in olive oil, add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
  4. Spoon mixture into mushroom caps and top with Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake for 15–20 minutes until mushrooms are tender and cheese is golden.

These stuffed mushrooms make a delicious, protein-packed lunch that’s simple yet impressive.

Conclusion

Ground chicken is a perfect go-to ingredient for anyone looking to make healthy, budget-friendly lunches without sacrificing flavor. The 26+ recipes shared here provide a wide variety of choices that suit all palates and occasions — from light bowls and stir-fries to comforting casseroles and wraps. Embrace these recipes to diversify your lunch menu and make mealtime something to look forward to every day.

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