Pasta with ground chicken and mozzarella

Pasta with ground chicken and mozzarella – a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner! This combination of pasta and meat is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh ingredients and whole grain pasta. Let’s embark on this recipe together, step by step, and discover the secrets of a dish that will surely become a family favorite!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g whole grain penne
- 750 g ground chicken
- 50 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 teaspoon herb seasoning (oregano, basil) and sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500 ml crushed tomatoes (or canned tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (optional)
- 200 g mozzarella (grated or diced)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the pasta:
The first step is to cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to flavor the pasta. When the water starts boiling, add the 500 g of whole grain penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Then, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the sauce:
In a large skillet, add 50 ml of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Chop 1 white onion into small cubes and add it to the skillet. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is the perfect time to add the herb seasoning and sweet paprika. Quickly stir to release the flavors, then add the 750 g of ground chicken.

Sauté the ground chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes uniform and white. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet and let it simmer in its own juices for 5 minutes.

3. Completing the sauce:
After 5 minutes, add 500 ml of crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Mix the ingredients well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. At this point, add a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and, if desired, the Italian herbs for extra flavor. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. This savory sauce will coat each piece of pasta with its flavors.

4. Assembling the dish:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Prepare a baking dish and start assembling. Place half of the pasta in the dish, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce, ensuring the sauce evenly covers the pasta. Finally, sprinkle 200 g of mozzarella on top, either grated or diced.

5. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is golden and appetizing. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible!

Serving:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for added freshness. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Helpful tips:
- Ingredient variations: You can replace the chicken with ground turkey or, for a vegetarian version, with mushrooms or chopped vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
- Storage method: If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the use of whole grain pasta and chicken, making it a healthy option for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta is an excellent alternative for those with gluten intolerance.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a pinch of chili powder or chili sauce during cooking to give it a bit of heat.
- Is this recipe suitable for kids? Yes! It’s a kid-friendly recipe, and the melted mozzarella will surely be a hit with them.

Enjoy every bite of this comforting and delicious dish! You will find that pasta with ground chicken and mozzarella is not just a simple recipe, but a culinary experience that will bring joy to your table. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 500 g whole wheat penne, 750 g ground chicken, 50 ml oil, 1 white onion, 1 tsp herb spices and Delikatsare paprika, pepper to taste, 500 ml crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp brown sugar, 1 tsp Italian herbs Delikat, 200 g mozzarella.