Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and wholesome meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights, this Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe is just what you need. It’s delicious, comforting, high in protein, and incredibly easy to make with pantry-friendly ingredients. Ground chicken absorbs flavor beautifully, allowing every bite of pasta to taste rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned.

This recipe is great for family dinners, meal prep, and even special gatherings because it brings together tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy or tomato-based sauce depending on your preference. It’s simple but impressive, making it a must-try dish for your recipe collection.

Whether you’re trying to cut down on red meat, searching for a lighter pasta option, or want something your kids will love, this meal checks every box. Plus, it’s customizable to add veggies, mix up the seasoning, or swap the pasta type to match your taste. Let’s dive into this hearty, flavorful recipe!

If this Ground Chicken Pasta Recipe was a hit, don’t miss my Kodiak Cakes Waffle Recipe and Pancake Mix Cookies. They’re both satisfying, flavorful, and great for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients for Ground Chicken Pasta

For the Pasta

• 300g pasta 
• Salt for boiling

For the Ground Chicken Sauce

• 450g ground chicken
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp seasoning
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

How to Make Ground Chicken Pasta

Step 1: In a large pot, boil water with salt. Add pasta and cook until al dente (usually 7–10 minutes depending on pasta type). Drain the pasta but save ½ cup of the starchy pasta water to help thicken the sauce later.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden. Add garlic and sauté for another 30–40 seconds. Add ground chicken and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6–7 minutes until lightly browned.

Step 3: Add paprika, seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.

Step 4: Pour in tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Add pasta water gradually to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the pan of chicken sauce. Add the tomato sauce. Toss everything until the pasta is fully coated. Stir in grated Parmesan and let it melt into the sauce.

Step 6: Top with fresh basil or parsley. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage Tips

Refrigerate & Freeze: : Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days refrigerated. Freeze without cheese for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Use a pan with a splash of water or cream to restore creaminess.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Chicken Pasta

1. Don’t overcook the chicken: Ground chicken cooks fast, keeping it tender is key.

2. Use pasta water: It brings the sauce together and makes it silky.

3. Add veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers blend perfectly.

4. Try different pasta shapes: Penne, fusilli, and ribbons hold sauce well.

5. Adjust seasoning: Add more chili flakes for heat or more cream for richness.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480–520 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 610mg

More Pasta & Bread Recipes You’ll Love

• Ditalini Pasta Recipe
• Casarecce Pasta Recipe
• Pecan Pound Cake
• Pineapple Pound Cake

FAQS 

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

A: Yes! Ground turkey works the same way in this recipe. It has a slightly richer flavor but cooks and seasons just like ground chicken.

2. What pasta shape is best for this recipe?

A: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli holds the sauce really well. However, you can use spaghetti or any pasta you prefer.

3. How can I make this pasta healthier?

A: You can use whole-wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cream, and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Absolutely! Skip the heavy cream and cheese. Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, and add extra seasoning for flavor.

5. Can I meal-prep this pasta?

A: Yes, this pasta stays well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring back the saucy texture.

6. Why is my ground chicken turning mushy?

A: Ground chicken can soften if cooked on low heat. For best results, cook it on medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan so it browns properly.

Conclusion

This Ground Chicken Pasta is the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and convenience making it a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Whether you choose a creamy version or a tomato-based sauce, the dish delivers a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or meal prep. Its customizable nature means you can adjust the seasoning, add veggies, or switch pasta shapes to fit your taste every single time.