Easy and Delicious Ground Chicken Goulash with Penne Pasta Recipe

Goulash is a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It's hearty, filling, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Today, I’m excited to share a special recipe that puts a fresh spin on traditional goulash by using ground chicken and penne pasta. This dish is flavorful, simple to make, and an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and start cooking!

Why Ground Chicken and Penne?

When you think of goulash, you might picture beef and elbow macaroni. While that classic version is delicious, ground chicken offers a healthier choice without losing flavor. Ground chicken is lower in fat, with about 15% less fat than ground beef, making it an excellent option for a lighter meal. Plus, it soaks up the spices beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Using penne pasta adds a delightful twist and texture, making it a dish your whole family will love.

Ingredients You'll Need

For this recipe, I’ve gathered some fresh ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground chicken

• 2 cups penne pasta

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

• Oil for cooking (olive oil or avocado oil)

  
  

You can add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to the mix. Customizing the dish is a fantastic way to make it your own!

Let’s Get Cooking!

With our ingredients ready, let's dive into the cooking process.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions for about 10-12 minutes until it's al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a drizzle of olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. The smell will be inviting, making your kitchen feel cozy.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until it's browned and fully cooked. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Combine It All

Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to mix everything together! Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend seamlessly.

Step 5: Mix the Pasta

After the sauce is ready, fold in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. If you prefer a saucier dish, you can add a bit more chicken broth at this point.

Step 6: Add the Cheese (Optional)

If you want that cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the goulash. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to melt the cheese, creating a mouthwatering topping.

Serving Suggestions

I love pairing this goulash with a side salad or some fresh crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the savory sauce. It’s definitely kid-friendly, so you can count on it being a hit at the dinner table. To add more color and nutrition, consider throwing in some green peas or fresh spinach while the sauce simmers.

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Goulash tends to taste even better the next day, as the flavors deepen. To reheat, use the stovetop on medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth for moisture.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—an easy and delicious ground chicken goulash with penne pasta that’s perfect for your #MakeItAtHome nights. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.

I hope you enjoy making this meal and sharing it with your loved ones. I would love to hear how your goulash turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!