Chicken Santa Maria
Chicken Santa Maria is a vibrant and hearty dish featuring tender chicken pieces, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers, all tossed with rotini pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese. It's a perfect meal for family gatherings or casual dinners, offering a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta according to directions on package.
- In olive oil, brown chicken with the onions and garlic until tender.
- Add artichoke hearts, peppers, and olives until heated.
- Drain pasta; toss with Parmesan cheese and combine with chicken mixture.
- Serve with green salad and crusty (or garlic) bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes in place of roasted peppers for extra depth of flavor. For a lighter option, replace the rotini with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on the garlic to avoid burning; it should be fragrant but not browned.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Santa Maria with a crisp green salad and a side of crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a light lentil pilaf, which complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or chicken broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Santa Maria contains roughly 565 calories, with 16g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 839mg per serving (36% 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 prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and pasta separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine just before serving. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan, consider using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option, providing a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Chicken Santa Maria is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats well, as the flavors continue to meld.
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).