One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
A quick, comforting one-skillet pasta dish made with ground chicken, melty cheese, and rich tomato sauce—perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups pasta penne, rotini, or fusilli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups tomato or marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup baby spinach or chopped zucchini
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil chopped
Substitutions
- Ground turkey or beef in place of chicken
- Gluten-free or whole wheat pasta
- Vegan cheese alternatives
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil, then sauté ground chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Add onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in uncooked pasta, tomato sauce, cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add enough water or broth to just cover the pasta. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Optional: Stir in spinach or other vegetables during the last few minutes.
- Garnish with parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or extra cheese on top for added flavor.
- Use the broiler briefly for a bubbly cheese topping.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or cream.