Chicken & Penne Pasta
A vibrant chicken and vegetable pasta dish featuring tender chicken strips, fresh asparagus, mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a hearty yet healthy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Broil or grill the chicken strips with butter and Cavender's Greek spice and set aside; keep warm.
- Cook the asparagus in a large pot of boiling, salted water until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and rinse under cold water.
- Cut the cooked asparagus into diagonal 1 1/2 inch pieces and set aside.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook for 10-12 minutes or according to package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat half the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the chopped green onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the reserved asparagus, spinach leaves, chopped tomato, and julienned sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet.
- Season with Cavender's Greek spice, salt, and pepper to taste, and cook until vegetables are heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking to achieve an even sear. You can substitute asparagus with green beans or broccoli if preferred. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the mushrooms. This dish can also benefit from a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken & Penne Pasta warm, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Mediterranean recipes for a diverse dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pasta and chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken & Penne Pasta contains roughly 3320 calories, with 29g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 309g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (77% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1673mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
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 grain penne pasta instead?
Yes, whole grain penne pasta can be used as a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check the package instructions and adjust accordingly to achieve the perfect texture.
What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?
If you don't have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers as a substitute. Both options will add a different but delicious flavor to the dish. Just adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Chicken & Penne Pasta is great for meal prep. Prepare the dish in advance and store it in individual portions. Just make sure to keep the spinach separate until you're ready to eat for optimal freshness.
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).