Chicken And Penne Pasta With Kalamata Olives
Chicken and Penne Pasta with Kalamata Olives is a vibrant Mediterranean dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and the briny richness of olives. Enhanced with garlic and fresh basil, it's a delightful meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut white meat chicken up into 1-inch pieces.
- Pit the kalamata olives and cut each olive into 3 or 4 pieces.
- Chop or slice garlic.
- Cut the basil leaves into strips.
- Begin heating a large pot of salted water to boiling.
- When water begins to boil, add pasta.
- Don't overcook!
- When done, drain pasta and put in a large pasta bowl.
- Drizzle liberally with olive oil, then salt and pepper to taste and stir.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. You can substitute penne with another pasta shape like fusilli or farfalle if preferred. Adding some sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes can enhance the Mediterranean vibe of the dish, making it reminiscent of Chicken With Zucchini. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Romano cheese for an extra touch of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider serving with a light vegetable dish like roasted zucchini or a refreshing Greek salad, making it a great option for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking. For best results, avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can lead to overcooked pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Penne Pasta With Kalamata Olives contains roughly 948 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat penne for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne is a great alternative that adds nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to cook than regular penne.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance. Cook the pasta al dente, then toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Refrigerate separately from the chicken. When ready to serve, reheat and combine for a quick meal.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta dish?
Certainly! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes can enhance the dish and add nutritional value. Sauté the veggies with the garlic before adding the chicken for a delicious one-pan meal that highlights the flavors of Mediterranean recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).