why make this recipe

One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings together simplicity and flavor in one pan. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, cheesy pasta that your whole family will love. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this dish checks all the boxes.

how to make One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta

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)

Directions :

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate the Base: Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Cook the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally.
Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and well combined.
Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

how to serve One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta

Serve the cheesy pasta hot right out of the skillet. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also add extra herbs on top for more flavor.

how to store One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator where it can last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

tips to make One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta

Feel free to swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey or beef if you prefer.
For a healthier twist, add some spinach or broccoli before serving.
If you like a bit more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

variation

You can customize this recipe by using different types of cheese. Try adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or a mix of your favorite cheese blend. Additionally, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the base with chicken and sauce, and then cook the pasta just before serving.

2. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth or even water, but for the best flavor, broth is recommended.

3. How do I make it vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based ground meat, dairy-free cheese, and vegetable broth. Replace milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk.

One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta

A quick and easy one-skillet dish that combines ground chicken, pasta, and cheeses for a comforting family meal.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients

Main 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

Preparation

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are melted and well combined.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve the cheesy pasta hot right out of the skillet. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also add extra herbs on top for more flavor. To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator where it can last for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Keyword Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, easy dinner, Ground Chicken, One-Skillet Recipe