Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, creamy, and comforting dinner that requires minimal cleanup, This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect one-pan meal for busy nights Made with tender ground chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is an easy one-pan meal that delivers big flavors with little effort.
If you’re a fan of cheesy chicken recipes, you’ll also love these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps, packed with gooey cheese and bold flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One pan = less mess – Everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on dishes.
✔ Rich and cheesy – A perfect blend of creamy sauce and melted cheese.
✔ Ready in just 30 minutes – A great weeknight dinner option.
✔ Customizable – Swap in your favorite cheeses, seasonings, or veggies.
With flavor-packed ground chicken, a velvety cheese sauce, and tender pasta cooked to perfection, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, by cooking everything in one pan, the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors, creating a thick, creamy texture that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ready to make this cheesy, hearty, and irresistible one-skillet meal? Let’s get started!
What Makes This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Special?
This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a game-changer for busy home cooks. If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food but hate doing dishes, this recipe is perfect for you!
A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity and speed. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a flavor-packed meal ready in 30 minutes.
Here’s why this one-skillet meal is a lifesaver:
✔ Minimal cleanup – Only one pan to wash.
✔ Faster cooking time – Everything cooks together in a single skillet.
✔ Perfect for meal prep – Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
✔ Great for families – A hearty meal that everyone will love.
Instead of using multiple pots for the pasta, sauce, and protein, everything is cooked together, which not only saves time but also infuses the pasta with rich, deep flavors.
Rich, Cheesy, and Flavorful
This dish is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of seasoning and spice. The ground chicken soaks up the bold flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, while the cheese melts into the sauce for a velvety finish.
What Makes This Pasta Extra Delicious?
🧀 Melty Cheese – A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the ultimate creamy sauce.
🍅 Rich Tomato Base – Diced tomatoes and broth make a savory, slightly tangy sauce.
🧄 Bold Seasonings – Garlic, onion, and Italian spices enhance every bite.
🔥 A Hint of Spice – Optional red pepper flakes add just the right kick.
Every bite is packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a perfect balance of protein and carbs. If you’re looking for a comforting meal without the hassle, this one-skillet pasta is exactly what you need.
Ingredients Needed for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Before we jump into cooking, let’s go over the essential ingredients you’ll need to create this rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish.
Essential Ingredients
To make this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta, gather the following:
Main Ingredients
✔ Ground Chicken (1 lb) – A lean and flavorful protein that absorbs seasonings well.
✔ Pasta (2 cups, uncooked) – Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works best.
✔ Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Adds richness and helps cook the pasta.
✔ Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz) – Brings acidity and depth to the sauce.
✔ Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Creates that creamy, velvety texture.
✔ Shredded Cheese (2 cups, mixed) – Use cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for the best melt.
✔ Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances flavor and adds depth.
✔ Onion (1 small, diced) – Gives a mild sweetness to the dish.
✔ Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used for sautéing the aromatics.
✔ Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – A blend of herbs to enhance flavor.
✔ Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a slight kick to balance the richness.
✔ Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Adjust according to your preference.
Best Cheese for the Creamiest Texture
For an extra gooey, cheesy pasta, try using:
🧀 Cheddar – Sharp and slightly tangy, perfect for melting.
🧀 Mozzarella – Adds that signature stretchy cheese pull.
🧀 Parmesan – Nutty and slightly salty, great for depth of flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: For the best melt, always shred your own cheese instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to customize the dish to suit your taste or dietary needs? Here are some great options:
✅ Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheese.
✅ Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free pasta, but check the cooking time as it may vary.
✅ Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken.
✅ Add More Veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
✅ Extra Spice: Love heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This One-Pan Dish
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. This one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta is incredibly simple to make—just follow these easy steps!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
✔ Dice the onion and mince the garlic for a flavorful base.
✔ Shred your cheese fresh for the best melting texture.
✔ Measure out all your ingredients before starting.
💡 Pro Tip: Prepping ahead makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free!
Step 2: Brown the Ground Chicken
1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
3️⃣ Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4️⃣ Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a spatula.
5️⃣ Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes).
6️⃣ Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
🔥 Pro Tip: If your ground chicken releases a lot of liquid, drain any excess before adding other ingredients.
Step 3: Add the Pasta & Sauce
1️⃣ Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with juices).
2️⃣ Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed.
3️⃣ Add 2 cups of uncooked pasta, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid.
4️⃣ Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
5️⃣ Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
💡 Pro Tip: If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a little extra broth or water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Step 4: Make It Creamy & Cheesy
1️⃣ Once the pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low.
2️⃣ Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, mixing well to create a rich sauce.
3️⃣ Gradually add 2 cups of shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
4️⃣ Let the pasta rest for 2-3 minutes before serving—this allows the sauce to thicken.
🔥 Pro Tip: For an extra-cheesy dish, sprinkle more cheese on top before serving!
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a burst of flavor.
✔ Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
💡 Reheating Tip: Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
Why Ground Chicken is Perfect for One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe
Using ground chicken in this one-skillet pasta dish isn’t just about convenience—it’s also a delicious and healthier alternative to other proteins. Here’s why it’s a great choice for this recipe.
Health Benefits of Ground Chicken
Ground chicken is a lean protein that offers numerous nutritional benefits compared to ground beef or pork.
🩺 Lower in Fat – Ground chicken contains less saturated fat than beef, making it a lighter option for pasta dishes.
💪 High in Protein – Just 4 oz of ground chicken provides about 22g of protein, helping keep you full longer.
🥩 Rich in Nutrients – It’s packed with B vitamins, iron, and zinc, which help with energy production and immune function.
⚖️ Great for Weight Management – Lower in calories but high in protein, making it ideal for a balanced diet.
💡 Pro Tip: For the leanest option, look for ground chicken breast, or choose a mix of white and dark meat for extra flavor.
Flavor and Texture Compared to Other Meats
One of the biggest advantages of ground chicken is how well it absorbs seasonings and sauces. Unlike beef or pork, chicken has a milder flavor, allowing the spices, garlic, and cheese in this pasta dish to shine through.
🔹 More tender and juicy – When cooked properly, ground chicken stays moist and flavorful.
🔹 Absorbs seasonings beautifully – Works well with Italian herbs, garlic, and creamy sauces.
🔹 Pairs perfectly with cheese – The mild taste allows cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan to stand out.
💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a slightly richer flavor, try adding ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken as it cooks.
Why Ground Chicken Works Perfectly in This Pasta
✅ Browns quickly – Cuts down cooking time compared to other proteins.
✅ Blends seamlessly into the sauce – Ensures every bite has a mix of pasta, chicken, and cheesy goodness.
✅ Versatile & easy to season – Pairs with a wide variety of spices and herbs.
This makes ground chicken the perfect protein choice for a one-skillet, cheesy pasta dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Can You Cook Pasta in the Same Pan as Chicken?
Absolutely! Cooking pasta in the same pan as chicken isn’t just a time-saver, it also enhances flavor and creates a richer, creamier texture. Let’s break down the benefits and the science behind this one-skillet cooking method.
The Science Behind Cooking Pasta and Chicken Together
When you cook pasta in the same pan as the chicken, you get three major benefits:
✔ Starch Thickens the Sauce – As pasta cooks, it releases starch, naturally thickening the sauce for a silky, creamy texture.
✔ Chicken Adds Extra Flavor – The browned bits left from cooking the ground chicken infuse the broth and pasta with deeper, richer flavors.
✔ One-Pan Efficiency – Cooking everything together means the pasta absorbs all the seasonings and aromatics, making each bite more flavorful.
💡 Pro Tip: Cooking pasta directly in the broth and tomato sauce instead of plain water maximizes flavor absorption!
How to Ensure Everything Cooks Evenly
Since pasta and chicken have different cooking times, here’s how to make sure they cook perfectly together:
✅ Brown the Chicken First – Always cook the ground chicken before adding pasta to build depth of flavor.
✅ Use Enough Liquid – The pasta absorbs broth and tomato sauce, so make sure there’s at least 2 cups of liquid in the skillet.
✅ Stir Occasionally – This prevents the pasta from clumping together and ensures even cooking.
✅ Cover the Skillet While Simmering – Helps trap heat, allowing the pasta to cook faster and more evenly.
✅ Add Cheese Last – Melt the cheese at the very end to keep the sauce smooth and prevent it from becoming grainy.
💡 Pro Tip: If the liquid evaporates too quickly, simply add ¼ cup of extra broth or water until the pasta is fully cooked.
Does Cooking Pasta in the Same Pan Change the Texture?
Yes! Unlike boiling pasta separately, cooking it in the skillet with chicken and broth creates a creamier, richer texture because:
✔ Pasta soaks up all the flavors instead of being drained.
✔ Natural starch thickens the sauce, eliminating the need for extra cream or flour.
✔ Cheese binds better to pasta when there’s residual starch in the liquid.
This is why one-skillet pasta dishes always taste extra indulgent and flavorful compared to traditional boiled pasta dishes.
Tips and Tricks for the Best One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Want to make sure your One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful every time? Follow these pro tips to elevate your dish!
How to Prevent Pasta from Sticking
✔ Stir frequently – Since the pasta is cooking directly in the sauce, stir every few minutes to prevent clumping.
✔ Use enough liquid – Pasta absorbs a lot of moisture, so make sure there’s at least 2 cups of broth or sauce in the skillet.
✔ Don’t overcook – Remove from heat when pasta is al dente (firm but tender). The residual heat will finish the cooking process.
💡 Pro Tip: If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the sauce.
Getting the Right Cheese Melt and Creamy Texture
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✔ Add cheese at the end – Stir in cheese after removing from heat to keep it from becoming grainy.
✔ Use a cheese blend – A mix of cheddar (flavor), mozzarella (stretch), and Parmesan (sharpness) creates the perfect cheese pull.
🔥 Pro Tip: Want an ultra-creamy sauce? Stir in a little cream cheese or Greek yogurt for extra richness.
Ways to Add More Flavor
✔ Sauté garlic and onions first – This builds a deeper, richer base flavor.
✔ Toast the spices – Add Italian seasoning, paprika, or red pepper flakes early in the cooking process to enhance their aroma.
✔ Splash in some acidity – A squeeze of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar brightens up the dish.
✔ Fresh herbs make a difference – Garnish with basil, parsley, or chives for extra freshness.
💡 Pro Tip: For a restaurant-style touch, sprinkle a little Parmesan and black pepper on top before serving.
What to Serve with This Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta?
This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to elevate your dinner experience, pairing it with the right side dishes and beverages can make it even more enjoyable!
Best Side Dishes for a Balanced Meal
🥖 Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that extra creamy sauce.
🥗 Side Salad – A light, refreshing salad balances out the richness of the pasta. Try a:
- Classic Caesar Salad (Romaine, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing)
- Italian Chopped Salad (Lettuce, olives, tomatoes, red onions, and Italian dressing)
- Arugula Salad (Tossed with lemon juice and Parmesan)
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Roasting broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini adds texture and nutrients.
🧄 Sautéed Spinach or Kale – A quick garlic sauté adds a nutritious green boost to your meal.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to keep it light, serve your pasta with a side of steamed asparagus or roasted cherry tomatoes.
🥤 Non-Alcoholic Beverage Pairings
Not a wine drinker? No problem! Here are some refreshing drink ideas:
- Lemonade – A slightly tart, fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Iced Tea – Sweet or unsweetened tea pairs well with the dish.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus – Adds a refreshing and bubbly finish to the meal.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re serving this dish for a special occasion, consider making a homemade basil lemonade for an extra flavor twist!
FAQs About One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
Here are the most commonly asked questions about making one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta.
1. Why is it called “Marry Me Pasta”?
“Marry Me Pasta” is a viral recipe known for its creamy, cheesy, and rich flavor—so delicious that it’s said to make someone propose marriage after trying it! While this one-skillet cheesy ground chicken pasta is not the exact same recipe, it shares many of the same comforting, cheesy flavors that make it irresistible.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to give this dish a “Marry Me” twist, add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the sauce!
2. How to make chicken cheese pasta?
Making a creamy, cheesy chicken pasta is easy! Here’s a simple breakdown:
1️⃣ Cook ground chicken until browned.
2️⃣ Add pasta, broth, and tomatoes to cook everything in one pan.
3️⃣ Simmer until pasta is tender and absorbs all the flavors.
4️⃣ Stir in heavy cream and cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5️⃣ Garnish and serve hot!
3. What to do with ground chicken?
Ground chicken is a versatile and lean protein that can be used in many dishes, including:
✔ Tacos & Wraps – Use ground chicken for spicy taco filling or Mediterranean-style wraps.
✔ Meatballs & Burgers – Mix with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and cheese for a juicy burger or meatball.
✔ Casseroles & Soups – Add to hearty soups or baked casseroles for extra protein.
✔ Rice Bowls & Stir-Fries – Combine with veggies and soy sauce for an easy stir-fry.
💡 Pro Tip: If you have leftover ground chicken, use it in a quesadilla or mix it into scrambled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast.
4. Can you cook pasta in the same pan as chicken?
Yes! Cooking pasta in the same skillet as chicken makes the dish:
✔ More flavorful – The pasta absorbs the chicken’s seasonings and juices.
✔ Creamier – The starch from the pasta thickens the sauce naturally.
✔ Faster to cook – No need to boil water separately, making this a one-pan meal.
💡 Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the skillet and to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. With just one pan, simple ingredients, and 30 minutes, you can create a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ One-pan convenience – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
✔ Cheesy and creamy – A perfect blend of melted cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
✔ Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients to match your taste.
This One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy one-pan meals, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or just enjoy it on its own, you’ll love how easy and delicious this pasta is!
Love quick and easy meals? Don’t miss our other top-rated chicken recipes like Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl!
Give It a Try!
Try this One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta today, and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with your friends and family.
