Mediterranean Chicken And Penne
Mediterranean Chicken and Penne combines tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and vibrant flavors from fresh basil and olives. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Liberally spray large nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Add olive oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onions to the skillet.
- Heat until soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Fill a large saucepan with 2 inches of water.
- Place chicken breast in steaming basket or stainless steel saucepan with lid.
- Bring water to a boil and steam chicken for 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let set in steam until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from basket and let cool. When cool, cut into 1 inch chunks.
- Meanwhile, cook penne according to packaging instructions.
- Drain penne and keep warm.
- Add chicken chunks, olives, basil, and oregano to the skillet with onions.
- Turn to medium heat and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, toss chicken mixture with hot penne pasta.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the Mediterranean flavors, consider using sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts as additional ingredients. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the penne pasta with zucchini noodles for a fresh twist. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mediterranean Chicken And Penne with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complement the flavors. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish further. This meal pairs beautifully with Chicken And Penne Pasta With Kalamata Olives for a delightful Mediterranean feast. Consider a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for an ideal beverage pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. You can also microwave it covered for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mediterranean Chicken And Penne contains roughly 441 calories, with 31g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta options can also work well if you're looking for healthier alternatives.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken And Penne?
This dish pairs nicely with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Grilled vegetables or roasted asparagus make excellent sides as well. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a Mediterranean-inspired grain salad.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and pasta in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them with the sautéed vegetables and heat through. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep during busy weeks.
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).