Ever craved a meal that’s comforting and flavorful but quick to make? This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is your answer. It’s a mix of savory ground chicken, creamy melted cheese, and hearty whole-wheat pasta in one pan. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a dinner everyone will enjoy.
This recipe is a hit because it’s simple and flexible. Cooking pasta, chicken, and veggies together in one skillet makes the flavors blend perfectly. The end result is a dish smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for busy parents or anyone looking to try something new and delicious.
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One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
Description
Craving something comforting, flavorful, and quick? This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is your perfect solution. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines savory ground chicken, gooey melted cheese, and hearty whole-wheat pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground chicken
- 8 oz whole-wheat penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large, high-sided skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in diced red onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in chicken broth, marinara sauce, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the uncooked pasta. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer and Stir: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender, and the sauce will thicken.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid. Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Add baby spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Make It Lighter: Use lean ground chicken, reduce the cheese, or swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Main Headings
Why This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite
If you’re searching for ground chicken recipes or ground chicken pasta that’s easy, this dish is perfect. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and loved by families. It’s the ideal choice for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This pasta dish is ready in just 25 minutes of prep and cooks in 30 minutes total. It’s simple to make with a short list of ingredients. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
This One Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. If you love easy chicken dishes, you’ll also want to try our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole for another family-friendly meal.
Minimal Cleanup Required
This easy recipe with ground chicken cooks in one skillet. That means less cleanup for you. Just a quick pan wipe and you’re done. It saves you time and effort, so you can enjoy your meal more.
Family-Friendly Meal Option
This cheesy ground chicken pasta is loved by all. The creamy sauce and tender chicken please both kids and adults. It’s a nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy.
This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta is a winner. It’s fast, simple, and loved by families. Get ready to enjoy its delicious taste and the ease of making it in one pan.
Essential Ingredients for Your One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make a tasty one-skillet cheesy chicken pasta, you need the right ingredients. Ground chicken is the main protein, making the dish lean and flavorful. Whole-wheat penne pasta adds texture and heartiness.
The sauce is made with chicken broth and marinara sauce, creating a creamy base. Heavy cream and fresh spinach add extra flavor and greenery. Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses make the dish gooey and savory.
Red onion, grape tomatoes, and Italian seasoning add depth and complexity. These ingredients make the dish rich and satisfying.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Chicken | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Whole-Wheat Penne Pasta | 8 ounces |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups |
| Marinara Sauce | 1 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Baby Spinach | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Red Onion | 1/2 cup, diced |
| Grape Tomatoes | 1 cup, halved |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a creamy, comforting dish. It’s a ground chicken and pasta recipe that will be a hit with your family.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need for Making One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make the delicious one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. The key piece of equipment is a large, high-sided skillet or Dutch oven. This will provide ample space to cook all the ingredients together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Recommended Skillet Size and Type
An ideal skillet for this recipe should be at least 12 inches in diameter. This size will accommodate all the ingredients and allow for easy stirring and mixing. A cast-iron or non-stick skillet works well, as they heat evenly and can withstand the high temperatures needed to brown the ground chicken.
Additional Tools and Utensils
- Sharp chef’s knife for chopping the chicken and any vegetables
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring the pasta
These basic kitchen tools will ensure you have everything you need to prepare the one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe with ease. The large skillet is the star of the show, while the other accessories will help you chop, measure, and stir your way to a delicious homemade pasta dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Making the creamy ground chicken pasta with white sauce is easy and quick. It takes only 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Follow these simple steps to make this tasty one-skillet meal.
- Start by heating a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the ground chicken. Cook the chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- After the chicken is cooked, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the uncooked pasta. Stir to combine and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender, about 12-15 minutes. The liquid will thicken and the pasta will absorb it, creating a creamy sauce.
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheese. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Finally, fold in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
And there you have it! Your delicious and easy one skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is now ready to serve. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your family and friends.
| Servings | 4-6 |
|---|---|
| Calories per Serving | 574 kcal |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
Creating the Perfect Creamy Sauce for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
The secret to a delicious ground chicken pasta alfredo or creamy chicken mince pasta recipe is the sauce. This dish has a creamy sauce that wraps around the ground chicken and pasta. The starch from the pasta thickens the sauce, making it smooth and velvety.
Achieving the Ideal Consistency
To get the sauce just right, simmer the pasta and sauce together for a few minutes after the pasta is done. This lets the pasta’s starches mix with the sauce, making it thick and creamy.
Cheese Selection and Melting Tips
For a perfect cheese sauce, mix mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella melts well, and Parmesan adds a rich flavor. Grate or shred the cheese before adding it to the sauce for even melting.
Balancing Flavors
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and a bit of thyme or basil. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. This ensures the flavors of the ground chicken pasta alfredo or creamy chicken mince pasta recipe are balanced.
Time-Saving Tips and Cooking Techniques for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Easy ground chicken recipes can be a breeze with a few tricks. The one-skillet cheesy chicken pasta is a great example. It shows how to save time and effort in the kitchen. Let’s look at some tips and techniques to make your meal quick and easy.
Start by using pre-chopped veggies or a food processor. Mincing onions and garlic can take a lot of time. These tools can save you minutes.
- Cook the pasta directly in the sauce for flavor and less time.
- Stir the mix often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Simmer the sauce low to avoid burning or overcooking.
These techniques make cooking this easy pasta recipe fast without losing flavor. You’ll get a creamy, cheesy meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd.
For simple chicken mince pasta recipes, balance speed and flavor is key. With some planning and these shortcuts, you’ll make this one-skillet dish quickly. Then, you can enjoy the delicious meal without stress.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
One serving of the One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta recipe is very nutritious. It has about 410 calories, 19g of fat, 38g of carbs, and 24g of protein. This dish is full of vitamins A, potassium, and calcium, making it a healthy meal choice.
Caloric Content and Macronutrients
This recipe has a lot of calories, but it’s balanced in macronutrients. It has protein, carbs, and healthy fats. The high protein helps you feel full longer, which is good for weight control.
Healthy Substitutions
- Try using whole-wheat pasta for more fiber and complex carbs.
- Choose lean ground chicken to cut down on fat.
- Use less cheese to reduce calories and fat but keep the flavor.
- Add more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
With these changes, you can enjoy the One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta recipe while staying healthy. It’s a nutritious and tasty meal that your family will love.
Storage Tips and Reheating Instructions for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your ground chicken recipes for dinner. Follow these steps to enjoy every bite of your ground chicken pasta:
First, put leftover ground chicken recipes for dinner in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to keep the pasta moist and tasty.
To reheat, use low heat on the stovetop, stirring gently until hot. Or, try the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval for even heating.
For freezing, the ground chicken pasta lasts up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
By storing and reheating correctly, you can enjoy your ground chicken recipes for dinner for days. Enjoy the flavors and convenience of this one-skillet dish whenever you want.
Recipe Variations and Customization Options
The One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is super flexible. You can make it your own by changing the protein, pasta shape, or adding more veggies. It’s a blank canvas for your family’s tastes.
Want to swap out the ground chicken? Try ground turkey, lean beef, or plant-based options for a veggie version. The sauce pairs well with many pasta shapes, like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli. For a gluten-free choice, pick your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Boost the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or grated zucchini. These veggies add vitamins, minerals, and a nice crunch and flavor.
Get creative with cheese to make it your own. Mix mozzarella with cheddar and Parmesan, or use crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to adjust the spice level.
No matter how you customize this ground chicken pasta bake, it’s a hit with everyone. It’s a simple ground chicken recipe that your family will adore. Enjoy exploring all the possibilities of this one-skillet dish!
Conclusion
The one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is a hit for many reasons. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and loved by families. You can choose from creamy Alfredo or spicy arrabbiata, making it perfect for any taste.
This dish is packed with flavor thanks to garlic, onions, mushrooms, and spinach. Ground chicken adds a lean protein boost, making it healthier than red meat. You can tweak the spice, cheese, and mix-ins to match your family’s taste.
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying pasta dish, this recipe is it. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights and a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the ease, taste, and health benefits it brings to your table.
FAQ
What makes this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe so special?
This recipe is a tasty and easy meal. It combines pasta, ground chicken, and cheese in one pan. It’s great for busy nights, cooking in just 30 minutes and easy to clean up.
Who is this recipe suitable for?
This pasta dish is loved by both kids and adults. It’s perfect for families who want a comforting dinner without much fuss.
What are the key ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are ground chicken, whole-wheat penne, chicken broth, marinara sauce, heavy cream, spinach, and mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
What type of skillet or pan is recommended for this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven, at least 12 inches wide. This size helps stir everything easily.
Can you walk me through the cooking process?
First, brown the ground chicken. Then, sauté the veggies. Add pasta and liquids, and simmer until the pasta is tender. Finish by adding spinach and cheese. The whole process takes about 25-30 minutes.
How do you achieve the perfect creamy sauce?
Mix marinara, heavy cream, and melted cheese for the sauce. Simmering the sauce with the pasta thickens it naturally.
Are there any time-saving tips for this recipe?
Use pre-chopped veggies or a food processor for quick prep. Cooking pasta in the sauce saves time and adds flavor.
What are the nutritional benefits of this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta?
Each serving has about 410 calories, 19g fat, 38g carbs, and 24g protein. It’s rich in vitamin A, potassium, and calcium. For a healthier version, try whole-wheat pasta, lean ground chicken, and less cheese.
How can I store and reheat the leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I customize this recipe to suit my preferences?
Yes! Swap ground chicken for turkey or beef, or use plant-based options for a vegetarian meal. Try different pasta shapes or gluten-free options. Add more veggies to your liking.
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