Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, making it a favorite for busy weeknights. This recipe offers a balanced mix of flavors and textures, providing comfort food that stays on the healthier side. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal clean-up!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 490mg
Why Make This Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet
This Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet is perfect for those hectic evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients that you may already have on hand, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also nourishes your body. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and loaded with vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes, which makes it a nourishing option for the whole family. Plus, the gooey melted cheese ties everything together beautifully, creating a comforting, wholesome meal.
How to Make Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet
Creating this scrumptious skillet meal is a breeze! Follow these steps for a delightful dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and thoroughly cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
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Step 3: Adding Aromatics
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
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Step 4: Mixing in the Veggies
Add cooked pasta, chopped spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
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Step 5: Seasoning
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning; stir everything together to combine all the flavors.
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Step 6: Sautéing
Cook for a few minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through, creating a colorful, vibrant dish.
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Step 7: Finishing Touches
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy, ensuring that your dish is cheese-laden and indulgent.
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Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your delicious skillet warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to Serve Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet
This dish is perfect as a standalone meal or served with a simple side salad. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a heartier option. For meal prep, consider dividing the pasta skillet into serving containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How to Store Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet
To store any leftovers, let the pasta skillet cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can easily swap out chicken breast for turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta Choices: Any type of pasta works well here—try whole wheat, gluten-free, or even spiralized veggies for a low-carb twist.
- Cheese Variations: If you want a sharper taste, consider using aged cheddar or gouda. For a creamier texture, cream cheese can be added before stirring in shredded cheese.
- Cooking Tips: Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding, which helps everything cook evenly.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add more spices or fresh herbs to elevate the flavors—basil, oregano, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
Delicious Variations
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: Swap spinach for broccoli or cauliflower for extra fiber and nutrients.
- Pasta Primavera: Mix in seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a colorful variation.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese for a creamier texture.
- Mediterranean Style: Toss in olives and feta cheese instead of shredded cheese for a Mediterranean twist, enhancing the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use uncooked chicken? Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it cooks through completely.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and still have a delicious meal.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the ingredients a day in advance and simply cook them when you’re ready to eat.
- What type of cheese is best for this recipe? Mozzarella and cheddar are great options, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!
- How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or in the microwave if you’re short on time.
Conclusion
The Easy Healthy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Skillet is not only a quick and simple meal but also a scrumptious way to enjoy a balanced dish loaded with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful blend of fresh ingredients and cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
