As a busy parent, making a healthy meal for your family can seem hard. But, with the right ground chicken and pasta recipes, you can make tasty dinners easily. Imagine having a nutritious meal ready in just 30 minutes – these recipes make it possible.
Find the perfect mix of flavors, tender chicken, and cozy pasta in these quick meals. Whether you want a creamy pasta bake or a Mediterranean-style spaghetti, these recipes are easy and delicious. Explore ground chicken and pasta recipes and discover new flavors for your family’s dinner.
Table of Contents
The Perfect One-Pan Ground Chicken Pasta Solution
One-pan ground chicken pasta dishes are great for busy weeknights. They are easy to make and clean up. Everyone in your family will love them.
Benefits of One-Pot Cooking
One-pot cooking is all about saving time. You can cook your whole meal in one pan. This makes cooking faster and cleaning easier.
Time-Saving Kitchen Tips
- Multitask while the pasta cooks by preparing the other ingredients, such as chopping vegetables or browning the ground chicken.
- Use pre-chopped or frozen vegetables to save time.
- Cook the pasta and sauce or toppings together in the same pan. This lets the flavors mix well.
Essential Equipment Needed
Having the right equipment is key for one-pan dishes. A large, shallow pot or Dutch oven works best. It should have a heavy bottom to prevent sticking and ensure even heat.
| Product | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | A 6-quart Dutch oven with a self-basting lid, perfect for one-pot chicken pasta recipes. | $59.99 |
| Calphalon Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 12-Inch Skillet | A large, versatile skillet with a heavy, durable construction ideal for one-pan meals. | $99.99 |
| Instant Pot Duo 6-Quart 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker | A versatile appliance that can also be used for one-pot chicken pasta dishes, saving time and effort. | $79.99 |
Essential Ingredients for Ground Chicken and Pasta Recipes
Creating tasty ground chicken and pasta dishes starts with the right ingredients. Use 1 pound of lean ground chicken, either breast or a mix of dark and white meat, for 4-6 people. Choose classic pasta like conchiglie (shells) or penne to go well with the chicken.
The sauce is where the magic happens. You’ll need olive oil, onions, garlic, tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and chicken stock. These ingredients make a rich, flavorful sauce. Adding veggies like bell peppers or spinach boosts nutrition and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Chicken | 1 pound |
| Pasta (conchiglie or penne) | 1 pound |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, diced | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Canned Diced Tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken Stock | 1 cup |
| Bell Pepper, diced (optional) | 1 medium |
| Spinach, chopped (optional) | 2 cups |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious ground chicken and pasta recipes. Feel free to adjust the amounts and seasonings to your liking. This way, you can make the perfect dish for any occasion.
Quick and Easy 30-Minute Chicken Pasta Bake
Make a tasty chicken pasta bake in just 30 minutes. It’s a simple recipe that combines ground chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce. It’s great for busy weeknights. Follow these steps to make a dish that everyone will love.
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, dried parsley, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and stir to combine. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Instructions
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Colby Jack cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy. You can also add frozen peas or drained corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
Transfer the chicken pasta bake to a baking dish. Top with more cheese if you like. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Storage Tips
- Leftover chicken pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to the pasta to help restore the creamy texture.
Enjoy thischicken pasta bakeas a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It’s sure to satisfy your craving for delicious, comfortingeasy chicken pasta dishes.
Creamy Ground Chicken Pasta with Italian Seasoning
Try a creamy ground chicken pasta dish that’s full of Italian flavors. It mixes creamy chicken with soft pasta for a meal that’s both comforting and tasty.
The secret to this dish is its ingredients. Heavy cream or coconut cream makes the sauce smooth. Italian seasoning adds a fresh, Italian taste.
This recipe takes 1 hour and 25 minutes to make and serves 4. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. People love it, with a 4.41 out of 5 rating.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pancetta | 4 ounces |
| Ground chicken | 1 pound |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Yellow onion | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 4 |
| Cannellini beans | 14.5-ounce can |
| Dry tubular pasta | 1/2 pound |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, grated |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Start by cooking pasta until it’s almost done, about 3 minutes less than the package says. Drain and set aside. Then, cook pancetta in a skillet until crispy. Add ground chicken, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and done.
Next, sauté the onion and garlic until they smell good and are soft. Add the cannellini beans, then the heavy cream. Stir until it’s creamy. Fold in the pasta so it’s well coated.
Put the pasta in a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and broil for 2 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. Serve hot and enjoy!
Healthy Ground Chicken and Pasta Combinations
Making a meal with healthy ground chicken and pasta is tasty and good for you. Ground chicken is lean and packed with protein, making it great for pasta. Adding whole-wheat pasta boosts your fiber, helping you feel full.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish has about 36g of carbs, 27g of protein, and 13g of fat. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, Calcium, and Iron. With just 368 calories, it’s a balanced and filling dinner choice.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used in place of ground chicken for a different protein option.
- Whole-wheat pasta can be swapped for gluten-free or lentil-based pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil can be replaced with fresh tomatoes or a combination of both for a lighter version.
Portion Control Guidelines
To keep your diet balanced, serve 1.5 cups of the pasta mixture. Add a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. This way, you enjoy the dish without overeating.
Mediterranean-Style Ground Chicken Spaghetti
Try a new dinner with Mediterranean-style ground chicken spaghetti. It’s tasty and good for you. This dish mixes ground chicken with Mediterranean flavors for a satisfying meal.
The main ingredients are ground chicken, spaghetti, and Mediterranean flavors. Ground chicken is lean, and spaghetti is filling. Grape tomatoes, fresh spinach, and herbs add vibrant tastes.
You’ll need 3 chicken breasts, 12 ounces of dry spaghetti, and 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. The sauce has 14 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and 6 ounces of red wine or water. It’s simmered to perfection, making the dish rich and flavorful.
To add Mediterranean flair, use 8 ounces of grape tomatoes, 5 cloves of garlic, and 5 ounces of fresh spinach. Finish with 3 tablespoons of lemon juice and 6 ounces of crumbled feta cheese.
This ground chicken spaghetti is tasty and healthy. It’s ready in 10 minutes to cook in 20 minutes. You’ll have it on the table in under 30 minutes.
Looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress? This ground chicken spaghetti is perfect. Enjoy the flavors and the satisfaction of making it yourself.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 639 kcal |
| Sodium | 1008 mg |
| Potassium | 1155 mg |
| Vitamin A | 4159 IU |
Budget-Friendly Ground Chicken Pasta Meals
Making tasty and healthy meals doesn’t have to cost a lot. With smart shopping and meal planning, you can enjoy tasty ground chicken pasta dishes without spending too much. Here are some tips and strategies to help you make affordable ground chicken pasta meals that taste great and save money.
Cost-Effective Shopping Tips
Here are some key shopping tips for budget-friendly pasta meals with ground chicken:
- Buy in bulk – Look for larger packages of ground chicken, which often offer better value per pound compared to smaller quantities.
- Take advantage of sales and discounts – Keep an eye out for sales, coupons, and promotions on your favorite pasta and chicken products.
- Opt for store-brand ingredients – Generic or store-brand items can be just as high-quality as name-brands, but at a lower cost.
- Utilize frozen produce – Frozen vegetables and herbs are often more budget-friendly than fresh, without sacrificing nutrition.
Meal Planning Strategies
Effective meal planning is key to creating budget-friendly ground chicken pasta dishes. Consider these strategies:
- Make large batches – Cook extra portions of your ground chicken pasta recipes and freeze the leftovers for easy reheating on busy nights.
- Repurpose ingredients – Use leftover ground chicken or pasta in other meals throughout the week to maximize your ingredients.
- Incorporate versatile staples – Keep your pantry stocked with versatile ingredients like canned tomatoes, herbs, and spices that can be used in a variety of ground chicken pasta dishes.
- Embrace simple recipes – Opt for straightforward, one-pot ground chicken pasta recipes that require few ingredients but deliver big flavor.
By combining savvy shopping habits and strategic meal planning, you can enjoy delicious and budget-friendly ground chicken pasta meals that nourish your family without draining your wallet. With a little creativity and these helpful tips, your taste buds and your budget will both be satisfied.
Family-Favorite Ground Chicken Pasta Dishes
Get the family together for a tasty and healthy meal with ground chicken and pasta. These recipes are loved by kids and adults alike. They offer a variety of flavors and textures for everyone.
Begin with the 30-Minute Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s a quick, easy dish that combines ground chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce. It’s ready in 15 minutes and serves 4, with 294 calories per serving.
For a more filling meal, try the Creamy Ground Chicken Pasta with Italian Seasoning. It has a rich sauce that covers the pasta and chicken. It’s a hit with the family, with 6 servings and 486.7 calories per serving.
Experience the Mediterranean with the Mediterranean-Style Ground Chicken Spaghetti. It’s packed with fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. These flavors complement the ground chicken perfectly.
Make your ground chicken pasta your own by trying different sauces, adding veggies, and choosing cheeses. Get creative and find the perfect mix your family will adore!
These ground chicken pasta recipes are perfect for any meal. They’re quick, nutritious, and full of flavor. Enjoy making and sharing these dishes with your loved ones.
Customizing Your Ground Chicken Pasta Experience
Ground chicken pasta dishes are great because you can make them your own. You can change the sauce flavors or add your favorite veggies. Let’s look at ways to make your ground chicken pasta special.
Sauce Variations
The sauce is key in any pasta dish. Try using creamy mushroom or pesto sauce instead of tomato-based. Adding white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, can add a fancy touch. Feel free to mix spices and herbs to create a unique flavor.
Vegetable Add-ins
Adding fresh veggies can make your dish healthier and more colorful. Try sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. For a Mediterranean flavor, add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts. There are many ways to make your pasta more nutritious and tasty.
Cheese Options
Cheese can make your pasta dish even better. While Parmesan is used in the recipe, you can try other cheeses like feta or mozzarella. Adding cream cheese or mascarpone can make it creamy. The right cheese can make your dish truly special.
By trying different sauces, veggies, and cheeses, you can make a ground chicken pasta that’s just right for you. Get creative and make your pasta experience unique.