10 Ground Chicken Pasta Recipes That Redefine Comfort Food

I remember the first time I tried ground chicken in pasta. It completely changed my dinner game with its lean protein and rich flavors. As a pasta lover, I’m always on the hunt for fresh twists on classic comfort foods. These ten ground chicken pasta recipes offer just that. From creamy Alfredo to zesty lemon basil dishes, each recipe has its own unique charm. Curious about which one might become your new favorite?

Classic Creamy Ground Chicken Alfredo

Classic Creamy Ground Chicken Alfredo is a delightful twist on the traditional Alfredo pasta, adding a rich and savory depth with ground chicken. This comforting dish combines tender pasta coated in a creamy, garlic-infused Alfredo sauce with seasoned ground chicken, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to captivate with its rich textures and harmonious flavors.

This ground chicken Alfredo isn’t only easy to prepare but also a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. The creamy sauce, made from scratch with Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and butter, pairs beautifully with the ground chicken, making each bite a delectable experience.

Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound of ground chicken
• 12 ounces of fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and ground chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce as it simmers. This subtle spice enhances the creaminess of the sauce.

If you prefer a spicier dish, a dash of red pepper flakes can be added to the ground chicken as it cooks. Additionally, you can incorporate vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach into the dish by sautéing them along with the garlic.

Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to confirm the flavors are to your liking.

Spicy Ground Chicken Arrabbiata

Are you craving a pasta dish that’s both hearty and packed with flavor? Seek no further than Spicy Ground Chicken Arrabbiata. This dish combines tender ground chicken with a fiery arrabbiata sauce, creating a deliciously spicy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The word “arrabbiata” translates to “angry” in Italian, a nod to the heat of the chili peppers used in the sauce. This recipe balances that heat with the rich, savory notes of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, making it a must-try for spice lovers.

The key to this dish is using quality ingredients that complement the ground chicken’s mild flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil add a layer of complexity, while the garlic and red pepper flakes bring the heat.

When combined with al dente pasta, this dish becomes a comforting, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, guaranteeing a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Combine with Tomatoes: Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and stir to combine. Add the sugar, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Mix the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
6. Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Once the pasta is well coated with the sauce, remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce before simmering. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

To guarantee the pasta absorbs the sauce well, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water; it helps bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing the overall flavor. Finally, always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to make sure every bite is perfectly balanced.

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Add Basil and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Divide the pasta into bowls or plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, or spinach if desired. Serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of this dish, consider using a high-quality olive oil as it will enrich the overall taste.

If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter when mixing the pasta with the sauce.

This dish also pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal experience.

Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Ground Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This satisfying recipe combines tender ground chicken and nutrient-rich spinach with a blend of creamy ricotta and savory Parmesan cheese, all stuffed into jumbo pasta shells. The shells are then nestled in a robust marinara sauce and baked to perfection, resulting in a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. The combination of textures and tastes makes this a dish that’s certain to please even the pickiest eaters.

The preparation of this dish is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. The key is to ascertain that each step is followed carefully to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. This recipe yields enough to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small dinner party or a family meal with leftovers. The ground chicken and spinach filling not only provide a delicious taste but also offer a healthy dose of protein and vitamins, making this a wholesome and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients:

• 12-16 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break up any large chunks.
4. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the chicken. Cook for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 more minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until smooth. Add the cooked chicken and spinach mixture to the ricotta mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Gently stuff each jumbo shell with the chicken and spinach mixture and place them in the baking dish, open side up.
9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil, if desired. Serve warm.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the pasta shells, it’s important not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Aim for a firm al dente texture to ascertain they hold their shape during stuffing and baking.

Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Ground Chicken Penne

Sun-Dried Tomato and Ground Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of ground chicken. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the seasoned ground chicken, while the penne pasta provides a hearty base that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.

It’s a simple yet elegant meal that can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends.

The recipe involves creating a robust sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, which is then tossed with perfectly cooked penne and tender ground chicken. This combination creates a balanced dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With a few fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, Sun-Dried Tomato and Ground Chicken Penne is transformed into a restaurant-quality meal that everyone will love.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it a great option for small gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (from the sun-dried tomato jar)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the tablespoon of olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and combine everything well. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
5. Finish the Dish: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your Sun-Dried Tomato and Ground Chicken Penne with a side salad or garlic bread.

Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan with the chicken broth. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and sun-dried tomato mixture.

Additionally, if you want to make the dish a bit lighter, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a lower-fat cream alternative. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little pasta water if it becomes too thick.

Ground Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff

Ground Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that brings together the savory flavors of mushrooms and ground chicken in a delightful sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to please the whole family. The combination of tender ground chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the rich, creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite a delicious experience.

This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal dish for a family meal or a small gathering. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, allowing you to whip up this delicious dish in no time. With a few basic steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Begin by chopping the onion, slicing the mushrooms, and mincing the garlic. Set these aside while you bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the egg noodles.
2. Cooking the Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
4. Cooking the Chicken: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground chicken. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until it’s no longer pink and cooked through.
5. Making the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Gradually stir in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
6. Adding Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the sauce heat through without boiling.
7. Combining Everything: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Allow everything to heat through for a couple of minutes.
8. Serving: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of mushroom varieties such as cremini or shiitake. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the sour cream.

To add a slight tang, you can substitute some of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference, as the saltiness can vary with different brands of chicken broth. Enjoy this dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Pesto Chicken Pasta With Ground Chicken

Pesto Chicken Pasta with Ground Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the rich, herby taste of pesto with the savory goodness of ground chicken. This dish isn’t only easy to make but also a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that can please the whole family.

The combination of tender pasta, seasoned ground chicken, and vibrant pesto results in a comforting and satisfying meal. By using ground chicken, you also have a leaner protein option that pairs wonderfully with the nuttiness of pesto.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family gathering or a quick meal prep option. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for flexibility, so feel free to adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Whether you prefer a more pronounced pesto flavor or a little extra garlic kick, this dish can easily be customized.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Stir in the pesto sauce, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are well-coated. If the mixture seems dry, you can add a little pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese has melted and the ingredients are well combined.
5. Serve: Transfer the Pesto Chicken Pasta to serving plates. If using, sprinkle pine nuts over each serving for added crunch and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, you can toast the pine nuts lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden before adding them to the pasta. Additionally, if you prefer a creamier sauce, consider stirring in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese into the pasta before serving.

For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pasta can be used without compromising on taste. Always taste the dish before serving to adjust the seasoning as needed.

Ground Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Ground Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of ground chicken with the sweet and smoky notes of roasted red peppers. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, offering both comfort and sophistication.

The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and herbs, beautifully coats the pasta, providing a satisfying and rich experience for your taste buds. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a small gathering or a weeknight meal with leftovers for the next day.

The combination of fresh ingredients and spices guarantees a meal that isn’t only delicious but also healthful. The use of ground chicken as the protein source keeps the dish light yet satisfying, while the roasted red peppers add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the Roasted Red Peppers: Stir in the sliced roasted red peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the dried oregano and basil. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately.

Extra Tips:

For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting your own red peppers at home instead of using jarred ones. Simply char them over an open flame or roast in a hot oven until the skins are blackened, then peel and slice.

You can also customize the dish by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and don’t forget to taste as you go to guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.

Mediterranean Ground Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Ground Chicken Orzo is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your dining table. This dish combines the richness of ground chicken with the fresh, vibrant tastes of tomatoes, olives, and herbs, all tossed with perfectly cooked orzo pasta. It’s a comforting and wholesome meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, offering a taste of the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it allows each ingredient to shine while still coming together in a harmonious blend. The ground chicken adds a hearty base, while the orzo provides a satisfying texture. Fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs elevate the dish, making it a well-balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. With just a few steps, you can create this Mediterranean masterpiece that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Cook the Orzo: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the orzo and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the red bell pepper, zucchini, and drained diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked orzo, sliced olives, lemon juice, and half of the chopped parsley to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and let them heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish the Dish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and remaining parsley over the top. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate the feta.
7. Serve: Transfer the Mediterranean Ground Chicken Orzo to a serving dish. Garnish with additional parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider using fresh herbs if available. They can provide a brighter and more aromatic taste compared to dried herbs.

Also, feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired ingredients such as artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for additional depth. If you prefer a spicier dish, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the seasonings.

Finally, make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially the salt, since the olives and feta cheese already contribute some saltiness to the dish.

Ground Chicken and Broccoli Macaroni

Elevate your pasta nights with this delicious Ground Chicken and Broccoli Macaroni recipe. This dish combines the tender, savory taste of ground chicken with the fresh, vibrant crunch of broccoli, all intertwined with perfectly cooked macaroni pasta.

The dish is then tossed in a creamy sauce that brings everything together, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Ideal for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe serves 4-6 people and is sure to become a household favorite.

Prepare to indulge in a well-balanced meal that not only satisfies the palate but also provides a good source of protein and greens. This Ground Chicken and Broccoli Macaroni recipe is quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 12 ounces macaroni pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: In the same pot used for the pasta, bring water to a boil and blanch the broccoli florets for about 2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Cook the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Make the Sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the chicken and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and broccoli into the skillet, stirring to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
7. Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk.

To ascertain the broccoli retains its vibrant color and crunch, be careful not to overcook it. This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.