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Chicken Penne Pasta

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Chicken Penne Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a family gathering, this recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, diced

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream (or tomato sauce for a lighter version)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Pour in the cream (or tomato sauce for a lighter version), stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Vegetarian: Replace chicken with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or use tofu or tempeh as a protein alternative.
  • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Lighter Version: Swap the heavy cream for a lighter version of cream, or use a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce the calories.
  • Cheese: Try adding mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique twist.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/chicken-penne-pasta/