Penne And Chicken Di Genoa
Creamy penne pasta with tender chicken, spinach, and flavorful tomato pesto sauce, topped with melted mozzarella—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook penne rigate according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chicken strips in olive oil until browned.
- Add the pasta sauce to the skillet with chicken; heat through.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked penne, chicken and sauce mixture, thawed spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, beat eggs and mix with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Pour egg and cheese mixture evenly over the pasta in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs or spices before cooking. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the creaminess of the mozzarella with a blend of ricotta and cottage cheese. For added texture, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. Also, remember to drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in your dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious addition. For a delightful variation, consider offering a side of Ann'S Italian Zucchini to complement the flavors of the Penne And Chicken Di Genoa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne And Chicken Di Genoa contains roughly 506 calories, with 24g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 677mg per serving (29% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you select to achieve the perfect texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work well. You could also incorporate some beans for protein, making it a hearty meal while still fitting into vegetarian recipes.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
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).