One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta: A Quick, Easy, and Delicious Weeknight Meal
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe! This recipe is simple to make, requiring minimal cleanup, and is packed with flavor. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen.
What You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce (your favorite kind!)
- 8 ounces pasta (any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle will work)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
This one-skillet wonder is unbelievably easy to prepare! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Brown the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet (at least 12 inches) over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer:
- Stir in the pasta sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta to the skillet. Stir to coat the pasta in the sauce.
Step 4: Cook Until Pasta is Tender:
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onions.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
- Creamier sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a satisfying and complete meal.
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Conclusion:
This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta recipe is a winner! It's quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! We'd love to hear your feedback and variations on this simple yet satisfying dish.
