Looking for a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s quick, easy, and made in one pan? This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe appears in each section to highlight its importance and relevance. is your answer! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying meal without the hassle of extra cleanup. Packed with tender pasta, seasoned ground chicken, and a luscious cheese sauce, this recipe is destined to be your go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver on hectic nights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes mean less time cleaning and more time enjoying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses.
Ingredients for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make this delicious one-skillet meal, you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
1. Heat the Skillet Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
4. Stir in Cheeses Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Add Vegetables (Optional) If using spinach and cherry tomatoes, stir them into the skillet at this stage. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly.
6. Garnish and Serve Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, flavorful goodness!
Customization Ideas
- Protein Alternatives: Swap ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or plant-based crumbles for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Enhance nutrition with mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Options: Use cheddar, Gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
Expert Tips for Perfecting Your One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Cook Pasta Evenly: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process seamless.
Nutritional Highlights
This dish offers a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats. With ground chicken as a lean protein source and the option to include spinach and tomatoes, you can boost the nutritional value while keeping the meal comforting and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove and stir in the cheese until melted.
2. Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. What can I serve with this pasta? Pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time as gluten-free pasta may cook faster or require more liquid.
Delicious Variations of the One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: Add a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for a herby, flavorful twist.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta: Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of buffalo sauce and top with crumbled blue cheese.
Mexican-Inspired Pasta: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and add black beans and corn.
Bacon & Mushroom Pasta: Sauté diced bacon and mushrooms with the onion for an extra savory option.
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