Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a delightful Italian feast without the guilt? Our Healthy Ground Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds while keeping your health goals in check! With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish combines lean ground chicken, wholesome whole wheat pasta, and vibrant tomatoes, making it a perfect choice for busy families or anyone looking to eat better without sacrificing taste. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a nutritious and satisfying dinner that everyone will love!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh spinach, optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onion, mincing garlic, and gathering remaining components.
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil for pasta cooking.
- Add whole wheat pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's completely white and no pink remains.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 5-6 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- If using spinach, add fresh leaves and stir until they wilt, about 1-2 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with chicken mixture, gently tossing to ensure even distribution.
- Serve hot, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese and additional seasoning if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during cooking, chop your onion and mince the garlic in advance. You can even cook the pasta a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to combine everything.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your pasta.
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the whole wheat pasta al dente for the best texture. This helps it hold up well when mixed with the chicken and sauce.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering the chicken mixture.
- Cheese It Up: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese! A generous sprinkle on top adds a delicious creaminess that complements the dish beautifully.
- Leftover Magic: This recipe makes great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and enjoy a quick, healthy lunch or dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 362kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
