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cheesy ground chicken pasta

Ely Chef
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • Ground chicken 1 lb: A lean and flavorful protein that cooks quickly and absorbs the seasonings beautifully.
  • Pasta 2 cups: Choose a short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. These shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
  • Cheddar cheese 1 ½ cups, shredded: Provides that gooey, melty cheesiness we all crave. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretch!
  • Parmesan cheese ¼ cup, grated: Adds a nutty, savory kick to balance the creamy sauce.

For the Sauce

  • Garlic 3 cloves, minced: A flavor powerhouse that infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic base.
  • Tomato sauce 1 ½ cups: Brings tanginess and a rich, velvety texture to the dish.
  • Heavy cream ½ cup: The secret to that luscious, creamy sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • Chicken broth 2 cups: Enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks, tying all the ingredients together.

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • Italian seasoning 1 tsp: A blend of herbs that adds depth and enhances the savory notes.
  • Paprika ½ tsp: For a subtle smoky warmth.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors of every ingredient.
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish: A pop of green for freshness and presentation.

Instructions
 

Heat Things Up

  • Place a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil.
  • Add the ground chicken, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Build the Flavor Base

  • In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant—careful not to burn it!
  • Stir in the paprika and Italian seasoning, letting the spices bloom for a richer flavor.

Combine the Sauce Ingredients

  • Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add the Pasta

  • Stir the pasta into the skillet, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid.
  • Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Bring Back the Chicken

  • Add the cooked ground chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine it with the creamy pasta and sauce.

Make It Cheesy

  • Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta and stir until it melts into the sauce. For an extra cheesy finish, top with the Parmesan cheese and let it melt for another 1–2 minutes.

Final Touches

  • Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

  • If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
  • For a golden, bubbly topping, pop the skillet under a broiler for 2–3 minutes after adding the cheese.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 780mg
Keyword Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta, Easy Weeknight Meal