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Ground Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Ground Chicken Pasta with Spinach
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This Ground Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a quick, healthy, and flavorful weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Featuring lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, and your choice of pasta, this one-pan dish is packed with protein and nutrients while being family-friendly and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy evenings, it delivers comfort and satisfaction without compromising on taste or nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins & Pasta

  • 1 lb lean ground chicken
  • 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or rotini recommended)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 5 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Oils

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water

Seasonings & Cheese

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a half cup of pasta water for later.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Brown the Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, usually 5-6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
  4. Add Spinach and Cook Down: Stir in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gently into the mixture. This adds freshness and an appealing green hue.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, followed by a splash of reserved pasta water or chicken broth to lightly coat everything. Toss well so the flavors meld beautifully.
  6. Finish with Cheese and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Give it one final toss, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients like fresh spinach and garlic to brighten the flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente provides the best texture.
  • Reserve pasta water as it naturally thickens the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta.
  • Season gradually with salt and pepper to balance flavors perfectly.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the ground chicken from sticking and ease cleanup.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground chicken pasta, spinach pasta, healthy weeknight dinner, quick pasta recipe, one-pan chicken pasta

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/ground-chicken-pasta-with-spinach/