One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping up a meal that’s hearty, healthy, and bursting with flavor all without leaving a sink full of dishes. That’s the magic of one-pot meals, and this one-pot ground chicken pasta is no exception. Packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a savory sauce that clings to every bite of pasta, this dish is destined to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this easy, healthy, and delicious recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pot ground chicken pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s a lifesaver on busy nights. Here’s why:

  • Quick and Convenient: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.

  • Healthy and Nutritious: Ground chicken is a lean protein option, and you can easily sneak in extra vegetables.

  • Customizable: Adjust the spices, veggies, and even the type of pasta to suit your family’s tastes.

  • Flavor-Packed: Thanks to a combination of herbs, spices, and a creamy yet light sauce, every bite is delicious.


Ingredients for One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • Ground Chicken: 1 pound of lean ground chicken.

  • Pasta: 12 ounces of penne, rotini, or your favorite pasta shape.

  • Vegetables: Diced onions, bell peppers, and spinach (optional).

  • Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced.

  • Tomato Sauce: 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes or tomato puree.

  • Chicken Broth: 3 cups for cooking the pasta.

  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.

  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional for heat).

  • Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or parmesan.

  • Cream (optional): ½ cup of heavy cream or a splash of milk for extra creaminess.

Feel free to add other ingredients like mushrooms, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes to elevate the flavors further.


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Dice your vegetables, mince the garlic, and measure out your seasonings. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

2. Sauté the Ground Chicken

  • Warm olive oil in a deep skillet or large pot over medium heat.

  • Add the ground chicken, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

  • Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, until it is browned and fully cooked.

3. Add Aromatics and Vegetables

  • Stir in the minced garlic and diced onions. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

  • Add the bell peppers (or any other vegetables you’re using) and sauté until they begin to soften.

4. Build the Sauce

  • Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir to combine.

  • Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat (if desired).

5. Cook the Pasta

  • Add the dry pasta directly to the pot. Stir well to ensure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.

  • Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

  • Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring now and then to avoid sticking.

6. Finish with Cheese and Cream

  • Once the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheese.

  • If using cream or milk, add it now for a luscious, creamy finish.

7. Garnish and Serve

  • Take the pot off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to cool down slightly.

  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, and serve hot.

One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta 2 (1)

What Makes This One-Pot Pasta So Good?

  • Simplicity: Everything cooks in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Balanced Flavors: The combination of garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and satisfying base.

  • Texture: The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, while the ground chicken adds a hearty, meaty bite.

  • Versatility: You can easily adapt this recipe to include your favorite ingredients.


Tips for the Best One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta

  • Use the Right Pot: A deep skillet or Dutch oven works best for even cooking and easy stirring.

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid mushy pasta.

  • Season as You Go: Layering flavors at each step ensures a more flavorful dish.

  • Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or even a handful of fresh spinach for extra nutrients.

  • Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, while the sauce is creamy and the pasta is perfectly cooked.

One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta 2 (1)

Substitutions and Variations

  • Protein: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based crumbles.

  • Pasta: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist.

  • Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese and cream, and add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.

  • Spices: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add smoked paprika or chili powder for a different flavor profile.


How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

  • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.

  • Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes: easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Ideal for busy evenings, it offers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Plus, with its endless customization options, it’s a dish you can truly make your own. So grab your pot and get cooking your taste buds (and your dishwasher) will thank you!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! It can be prepared in advance and reheated when it’s time to serve. Just make sure to store it properly.

Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or broccoli would work beautifully in this dish.

Absolutely! Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

if you’re looking for more dishes so, you can try this I really like it Crispy Baked Chicken Cutlet Recipes

One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta 2 (1)

One-Pot Ground Chicken Pasta: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

Quick, healthy, and delicious, this one-pot ground chicken pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with lean protein and big flavor, it’s a family favorite!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Knife and Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground chicken
  • 12 ounces penne rotini, or pasta of choice
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup spinach optional
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14 ounces crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup heavy cream or a splash of milk optional

Instructions
 

  • Prep Ingredients: Dice vegetables, mince garlic, and measure seasonings.
  • Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, cook ground chicken until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic and onions, cooking until fragrant. Add bell peppers and sauté until softened.
  • Build Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
  • Cook Pasta: Add dry pasta, ensuring it’s submerged. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  • Finish Dish: Stir in shredded cheese and cream for a creamy finish.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley or basil, and serve hot.
Keyword one-pot pasta, ground chicken recipes, easy pasta recipes, healthy chicken pasta, quick dinner recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating