One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
When the days get busier, and you find yourself craving something comforting but don’t have the time or energy for a complicated meal, the idea of a one-skillet dish is the answer. You want something that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, a dish that satisfies your taste buds and makes you feel at home. This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect solution, offering a creamy, cheesy meal in no time at all.
Ground chicken is a lighter, healthier option compared to traditional ground beef, while still delivering the flavors you love. The best part? You don’t need a long list of ingredients or multiple pans. Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on cleanup and letting you focus on enjoying the meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a group of friends, or just for yourself, this recipe will become your go-to for an easy, satisfying dinner.
Why Choose Ground Chicken for Your Pasta?
Ground chicken isn’t just a healthier alternative to ground beef—it’s also incredibly versatile, quick-cooking, and budget-friendly. Here’s why you should consider using ground chicken for your next pasta dish:
Healthier Alternative to Ground Beef
Ground chicken is a lean protein, which means it’s lower in fat and calories than ground beef. If you’re looking to cut back on saturated fat while still enjoying a hearty meal, ground chicken is the way to go. It’s also a great choice if you’re trying to balance your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Cooking Time
One of the major benefits of using ground chicken in this recipe is how quickly it cooks. It takes less time to brown and cook through than chicken breasts or thighs, making it ideal for weeknight meals. This means you can have your meal ready in under 30 minutes, without needing to compromise on taste.
Mild Flavor and Versatility
Ground chicken has a milder flavor compared to other meats, which allows it to absorb the flavors of the seasoning and sauces you use. Whether you like your pasta rich and creamy or prefer a more savory, tomato-based sauce, ground chicken will always complement the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This One-Skillet Recipe
Before you start cooking, it’s helpful to know what you’ll need to make this dish. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken | 1 lb (450g) |
| Penne pasta | 8 oz (225g) |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup (100g) |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup (50g) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (diced) | 1 small |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/2 tsp |
| Fresh basil (optional) | 2 tbsp |
This list of ingredients may seem simple, but the combination of each brings a rich, satisfying flavor to the dish.
Optional Add-ins:
- Spinach or Kale: If you’d like to add a little extra nutrition, throw in some spinach or kale for added greens.
- Mushrooms: Adding sautéed mushrooms enhances the flavor and gives the dish a savory, earthy taste.
- Cherry Tomatoes: For a bit of freshness and a tangy flavor, you can stir in halved cherry tomatoes just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect One-Skillet Meal
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, as everything comes together in one skillet. Let’s break it down step-by-step.
1. Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water. Cook it according to the instructions on the package—usually around 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta, but save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to help loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Ground Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, grab your skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, stirring it occasionally. Brown the chicken until it’s fully cooked through, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together to combine. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until both cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to add the pasta. Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s fully coated. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Let the pasta cook in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the creamy sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined and heated through, serve the pasta immediately. You can garnish it with freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even extra red pepper flakes for some added spice.
Tips for Perfect One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
While this recipe is easy to follow, here are a few tips to ensure you make the best version possible:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and high-quality cheese will make a huge difference in flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer, creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream or a mix of cream and milk.
- Add Veggies: To make this dish more nutritious, feel free to toss in spinach, kale, or other vegetables of your choice.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. Overcooking it can result in a mushy texture, which will impact the dish.
Variations of the Recipe You Can Try
While this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta is delicious as written, don’t be afraid to customize it based on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations to consider:
Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
- Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach towards the end of cooking. It wilts down quickly and adds a lovely pop of green.
- Mushrooms: For an earthy twist, sauté mushrooms with the onions and garlic. They’ll absorb the flavor of the sauce and add richness to the dish.
- Zucchini: Sautéing zucchini along with the chicken gives the dish a light, fresh flavor.
Make It Spicy
If you like your food with a little heat, adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will give your cheesy ground chicken pasta the kick you’re craving.
Dairy-Free Version
For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese. This makes the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy while still keeping the creaminess intact.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (or want to make extra for meal prep), storing and reheating this dish is easy.
Storing Leftovers
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool and then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat, reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Tonight!
This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy nights when you need something quick, comforting, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a meal for yourself, this recipe is a winner every time.
So, next time you’re in need of a delicious, fuss-free dinner, grab some ground chicken, pasta, and a few simple ingredients to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Try it tonight, and you’ll quickly see why this will become your new favorite weeknight meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While penne works great, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it according to the package directions.
Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey will work just as well as ground chicken. It will bring a similar texture and flavor, so feel free to swap them out if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it when you’re ready to eat. If the sauce thickens, just add a bit of pasta water or broth to loosen it up.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like your food spicy, try adding extra red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to give it a kick.
