When you’re craving a comforting, hearty dinner that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor, this One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is your go-to recipe. Combining tender ground chicken, al dente pasta, and melted cheese in a creamy sauce, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work well)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Extra Parmesan (optional)
Preparation
1. Cook the Ground Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the pasta to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Add a dash of red pepper flakes if you like extra heat. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein Options: Swap ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or plant-based meat alternatives for variety.
- Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for different cheesy flavors.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra nutrients and texture.
- Lighter Version: Use milk or a mixture of milk and broth instead of heavy cream to reduce calories.
Cooking Note
For perfect consistency, stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy pasta with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or sparkling water with lemon complements the richness of the dish.
Tips
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
- Spice It Up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 36g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with extra broth to maintain creaminess.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells work best as they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in the skillet.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but note that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for a quick family dinner or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try it tonight and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness in every bite!