If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delicious, and stress-free dinner idea, this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is about to become your go-to solution. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and only one pan to clean, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. Imagine tender pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce paired with flavorful ground chicken all coming together in just under 30 minutes!
What truly sets this dish apart is its adaptability. Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize with your favorite spices, veggies, or cheeses, making it a reliable choice no matter the occasion.
So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into creating this effortless and mouthwatering meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Cheesy Pasta Recipe with Chicken
Convenient and Time-Saving One-Skillet Meal
This one-skillet cheesy pasta recipe with chicken saves you time and effort. Since everything cooks in just one pan, you’ll have fewer dishes to clean up. Plus, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Cheesy Pasta with Chicken
This cheesy pasta with chicken is packed with creamy, gooey cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s a meal the whole family will love, and you can easily customize it with different cheeses, spices, or even veggies to suit everyone’s taste.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients for a Cheesy Chicken Pasta
No need for fancy ingredients—this one-skillet cheesy pasta recipe with chicken uses affordable pantry staples like pasta, ground chicken, and cheese. It’s an easy and delicious way to create a hearty meal without overspending.
Ingredients You’ll Need for One-Skillet Cheesy Pasta with Chicken
Key Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Ground chicken – A lean and flavorful protein that blends perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce. You can also substitute it with ground turkey.
- Pasta – Use penne, macaroni, or rotini to hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too.
- Shredded cheese – A mix of mozzarella, cheddar, or a three-cheese blend creates the ultimate gooey, melty texture.
- Garlic and onion – Essential aromatics that enhance the savory depth of your cheesy chicken pasta.
- Herbs and spices – Oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and black pepper add layers of flavor to the dish.
Optional Add-Ins to Elevate Your Skillet Pasta
- Vegetables – Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
- Cream or canned tomatoes – Heavy cream makes it extra creamy, while tomatoes introduce a tangy balance.
Pro Tip for Freshness in Your Chicken Pasta Recipe
For the best flavor, garnish your one-skillet cheesy pasta with chicken with fresh parsley or basil before serving. This simple touch enhances the taste and presentation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
1. Prepare Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Before you get started, make sure all the necessary ingredients for your cheesy ground chicken pasta are ready to go.
2. Cook Ground Chicken for Your One-Skillet Cheesy Pasta
Start by cooking the ground chicken with garlic, onion, and your favorite seasonings to create a flavorful base for your cheesy chicken pasta.
3. Combine Pasta and Chicken for One-Skillet Cheesy Pasta
Once the chicken is cooked, add the pasta, broth, and cream to the skillet to create a rich, flavorful sauce for your cheesy pasta.
4. Add Cheese and Finish Your Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and creamy, then garnish with fresh herbs to complete your one-skillet cheesy pasta with chicken.
Tips for Customizing Your One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
1. Swap Proteins in Your Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Experiment with different proteins like ground turkey, beef, or plant-based alternatives to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
2. Change Up the Cheeses for Your Cheesy Pasta
Try swapping mozzarella for parmesan, gouda, or pepper jack to create a unique flavor profile in your one-skillet cheesy pasta.
3. Make Your One-Skillet Cheesy Chicken Pasta Healthier
Opt for whole wheat pasta or add extra vegetables to boost the fiber and nutrient content of your cheesy ground chicken pasta.
4. Spice Up Your Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to bring heat and depth to your cheesy chicken pasta.
One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups milk
- 8 oz pasta penne, rotini, or shells
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Cook the Ground Chicken:
- Add ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
Incorporate the Base:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and milk, stirring to combine.
Cook the Pasta:
- Add uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover and let cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
Add the Cheese:
- Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix until cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
Serve and Garnish:
- Remove from heat and let sit for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Skillet Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, whether it’s penne, fusilli, macaroni, or rotini. The key is to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. For example:
- Small pasta shapes like macaroni cook faster, while larger pasta like rigatoni or penne may require a few extra minutes.
- If you’re cooking the pasta directly in the skillet (rather than boiling it separately), ensure you use enough liquid (broth or cream) to cook the pasta thoroughly.
You can also experiment with gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier or dietary-specific option.
What’s the Best Skillet to Use?
The best type of skillet for a one-skillet cheesy pasta is a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron skillet. These options ensure that your pasta doesn’t stick and cook evenly. Here’s why:
- Non-stick skillets are ideal for keeping everything from sticking to the bottom while giving you an easy cleanup.
- Cast iron skillets provide excellent heat retention and even cooking, making them perfect for this type of dish, especially if you want to get a nice golden brown on the edges of your pasta.
Make sure the skillet is large enough to hold all of the ingredients comfortably, as this dish needs space for both pasta and sauce to simmer.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers easily! Simply transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days.When you’re ready to enjoy it again:
- Reheat it on the stove with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy.
- You can also microwave it in intervals, stirring in between to ensure even reheating. Add a little extra cheese or a drizzle of cream if you want to freshen up the dish.
How Do I Prevent the Cheese from Clumping?
To avoid clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy cheese sauce:
If the cheese starts to firm up, you can add a little more cream, milk, or broth to smooth it out. Stir continuously to create a silky, velvety texture.
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
Add cheese slowly to the skillet, stirring constantly over low heat. This allows the cheese to melt gradually and incorporate into the sauce.
Conclusion:
This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is the perfect go-to for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It combines the richness of creamy cheese with the heartiness of ground chicken and tender pasta, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Whether you’re looking to customize it with different proteins, cheeses, or add-ins, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with options for healthier tweaks. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, making it a winner in any kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal with little effort!