Weeknight dinners should be simple and tasty. The One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is a convenient & delicious dish. This easy recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Using just one skillet makes cleanup easy, allowing you to enjoy more free time. The tender ground chicken, creamy cheese, & perfectly cooked pasta create a comforting meal that even picky eaters will enjoy. Whether cooking for yourself or a group, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Learn how to make this delectable One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta, which will quickly become a staple dinner option.
Ingredients needed for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. First and foremost, ground chicken is the star of the show. It’s leaner than beef and has a mild flavor that absorbs the spices beautifully.
You’ll also need pasta, any short variety like penne or rotini works well. I often opt for whole wheat pasta for added nutrition, but regular pasta is just as delicious. In addition to the main components, gather some diced tomatoes, garlic, onion, and chicken broth to create a rich base.
Don’t forget the cheese! A blend of mozzarella and cheddar gives that perfect melty texture that makes this dish irresistible. Lastly, seasonings like Italian herbs, salt, and pepper will elevate the flavors.
I’ve even experimented with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, which turned out to be a delightful surprise.
Step-by-step instructions for making One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Get your stuff ready. We’ll start cooking. Heat oil in a big pan on medium heat. When oil is hot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until they smell nice & look clear. This reminds me of grandma’s kitchen and family dinners.
Then, place the chicken in the skillet. Use a spatula to crumble it while it cooks. Allow it to brown for about 5 to 7 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, followed by your pasta. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let it simmer until the pasta is al dente—this usually takes around 10-12 minutes.
The first time I made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together without sacrificing flavor. Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time for the grand finale: cheese! Stir in your shredded mozzarella and cheddar until they melt into a creamy sauce that envelops every piece of pasta.
The sight of that bubbling cheese is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat. Serve it hot right from the skillet for a rustic presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Tips and variations for customizing One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
This recipe is very flexible. You can modify it according to your tastes or ingredients available. For example if you want to include vegetables, you could add spinach or bell peppers when sautéing.
I once tossed in some zucchini that was languishing in my fridge, and it added a lovely texture and flavor without overpowering the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out ground chicken for turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with different cheeses; gouda or pepper jack can add unique flavors that elevate this dish even further.
And if you’re a fan of herbs, fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can add a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cheese.
Wellness perks of adding ground chicken to pasta recipes
Using ground chicken in pasta dishes not only enhances flavor but also offers several health benefits. Ground chicken is significantly lower in fat compared to traditional ground beef or pork, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthier diet without sacrificing taste. It’s also packed with protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Additionally, incorporating lean meats like ground chicken into your meals can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the temptation to snack excessively later on. When paired with whole grain pasta and vegetables, this dish becomes a balanced meal that provides essential nutrients while still being comforting and satisfying. I’ve found that after enjoying this meal, I feel energized rather than weighed down—a win-win in my book!
Serving suggestions and side dishes for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving this delightful one-skillet meal, I like to keep things simple yet elegant. A fresh side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheesy pasta. The crispness of the salad offers a refreshing contrast that balances out the meal perfectly.
If you’re looking to add more sides, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. The buttery crunch complements the creamy pasta wonderfully. On occasion, I’ve even served this dish alongside roasted vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition—think broccoli or asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper before roasting until tender.
Conclusion and final thoughts on this easy and delicious recipe
This cheesy ground chicken pasta dish is more than just food. It solves the problem of busy evenings when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time. The recipe is straightforward yet flavorful. It suits families and individuals alike. Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleaning up afterwards.
The combination of ground chicken, pasta, & cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. This makes it adaptable to different tastes & dietary needs. You can make it for yourself or a group.
This easy ground chicken pasta dish is delicious yet simple. It requires few ingredients and little prep time but delivers a hearty meal that even fussy eaters will like. When you need a quick tasty dinner option this recipe is perfect. It will likely become a regular meal in your home providing comfort & satisfaction with each bite.
FAQs
What is One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that combines ground chicken, pasta, cheese, and a variety of seasonings and herbs. It is a one-skillet recipe, meaning it can be made in just one pan, making it a convenient and quick meal option.
What are the ingredients needed for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
The ingredients typically needed for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta include ground chicken, pasta (such as penne or rotini), chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar).
What are the step-by-step instructions for making One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
The step-by-step instructions for making One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta typically involve browning the ground chicken, cooking the pasta in the same skillet, adding the remaining ingredients, and then simmering until the pasta is tender and the cheese is gooey and bubbling
What are some tips and variations for customizing One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
Some tips for customizing One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta include adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers, using different types of cheese for variety, and adjusting the seasonings to suit personal taste preferences.
What are the health benefits of using ground chicken in pasta dishes?
Using ground chicken in pasta dishes can provide a leaner protein option compared to ground beef or pork. It is lower in fat and can be a good source of protein, making it a healthier choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
What are some serving suggestions and side dishes for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta can be served with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying and filling dish.
What are the final thoughts on this easy and delicious recipe?
One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is a versatile and family-friendly recipe that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes. It is a convenient and satisfying meal option that is sure to become a favorite in any household.
Another Recipe You’ll Enjoy
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