Name: Taco Pasta Skillet with Ground Chicken for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 pound ground chicken or ground turkey; 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 ¾ cups water, plus more as needed; 1 cup prepared salsa (medium or mild); 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 ½ cups uncooked whole wheat pasta (rotini, fusilli, penne, or shells); 1 (15-ounce) can reduced-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (or pepper jack for a kick); Sliced avocado; Nonfat plain Greek yogurt; Chopped fresh cilantro; Jalapeño slices; Any taco toppings you love

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Taco Pasta Skillet with Ground Chicken is a delightful one-pan meal that merges the irresistible flavors of classic tacos with wholesome whole wheat pasta. This dish is a quick and easy option for busy weeknights, satisfying your family’s cravings for hearty comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. With ingredients like ground chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, each bite bursts with flavor while keeping the meal nutritious. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious dinner that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Taco Pasta Skillet with

This Taco Pasta Skillet with Ground Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that brings joy to the table. Here’s why it will become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-pan meal means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your food.
Versatile recipe that allows you to customize with your favorite taco toppings.
Healthy option with whole wheat pasta and lean ground chicken.
Rich in protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
Great for meal prep; make it ahead and reheat easily.
This easy taco pasta meal is loved by kids and adults alike!
Can be adapted to create a vegetarian taco pasta skillet.

Ingredients for Taco Pasta Skillet with

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound ground chicken or ground turkey
1 yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 ¾ cups water, plus more as needed
1 cup prepared salsa (medium or mild)
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 ½ cups uncooked whole wheat pasta (rotini, fusilli, penne, or shells)
1 (15-ounce) can reduced-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (or pepper jack for a kick)
Sliced avocado
Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
Chopped fresh cilantro
Jalapeño slices
Any taco toppings you love

How to Make Taco Pasta Skillet with Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground chicken, onion, and bell peppers. Cook until chicken is done and onions are translucent, about 8 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook until garlic is fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add water, salsa, tomato sauce, pasta, and black beans. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes. Add more water if needed.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese until melted. Top with remaining cheese. Serve hot with avocado, yogurt, cilantro, jalapeños, or any taco toppings.

Taco Pasta Skillet with Ground Chicken for Busy Nights - Taco Pasta Skillet with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Taco Pasta Skillet with

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Adjust spice levels by using different salsas to cater to your family’s taste.
Feel free to use different pasta shapes as desired for variety.
Experiment with additional toppings like sour cream or corn for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Taco Pasta Skillet with

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve with a dollop of nonfat Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Pair with crispy tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Taco Pasta Skillet with

To store leftovers, place the Taco Pasta in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or salsa if needed to keep it moist. This meal is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to grab and go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Pasta Skillet with

What’s the secret to perfect Taco Pasta Skillet with?

The secret lies in balancing the flavors of spices and ensuring the pasta is cooked perfectly. Use quality salsa and fresh vegetables for the best results!

Can I make Taco Pasta Skillet with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat, and it will taste just as delicious!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Taco Pasta Skillet with?

Avoid overcooking the pasta. Keep an eye on the moisture level and adjust as necessary to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Taco Pasta Skillet with Ground Chicken for Busy Nights - Taco Pasta Skillet with - additional detail

Variations of Taco Pasta Skillet with You Can Try

For those looking to switch things up, consider these variations:

Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile.
Create a vegetarian taco pasta skillet by omitting the meat and adding more beans and vegetables.
Make a creamy version by stirring in some cream cheese or sour cream at the end.
Try a spicy twist by adding diced jalapeños or using hot salsa!

For more delicious recipes, check out Cheesy Taco Casserole or Creamy Chicken Enchiladas. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole for a great option!