Penne Pasta with Grilled Chicken
This Penne Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that beautifully combines textures and flavors for a satisfying meal. Featuring tender chicken gyros, crunchy snow peas, and a creamy sauce, it's a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The juicy red peppers and earthy mushrooms add depth and richness, complementing the al dente penne pasta. A touch of soy sauce and chicken broth enhances the taste profile, making each bite an unforgettable experience. With just a few simple steps, this dish is easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The ingredients can easily be adjusted to suit personal preferences or dietary needs, providing flexibility and creativity in the kitchen. Enjoy this flavorful journey, whether you're cooking for family or enjoying a cozy meal alone. This pasta dish is a testament to the beauty of combining fresh ingredients with a touch of culinary magic.
Ingredients
**Main Ingredients:**
- 80 g chicken gyros
- 25 g snow peas
- 25 g red bell pepper
- 25 g mushrooms
- 100 g penne pasta
**Sauces and Spices:**
- 5 tbsp sweet cream
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp chicken broth
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prep the Ingredients:** Start by slicing the chicken gyros, snow peas, red bell pepper, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. **Heat the Pan:** Warm up a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil to ensure the ingredients do not stick.
3. **Cook the Chicken:** Add the sliced chicken gyros to the pan, stirring occasionally until they are lightly browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
4. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the snow peas, red bell pepper, and mushrooms to the pan with the chicken. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. **Prepare the Sauce:** While the chicken and vegetables cook, dissolve the chicken broth in a small amount of hot water, then combine it with the sweet cream and soy sauce.
6. **Add the Sauce:** Pour the prepared cream and soy sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. **Cook the Pasta:** Meanwhile, in a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
8. **Drain the Pasta:** Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
9. **Combine the Ingredients:** Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until well combined and the pasta is coated in the sauce.
10. **Adjust Seasonings:** Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more soy sauce or a pinch of salt and pepper to suit your taste.
11. **Serve:** Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl.
12. **Garnish (optional):** Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese to add an extra layer of flavor.
13. **Enjoy immediately:** Serve hot and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy pasta with grilled chicken.
14. **Store leftovers:** If any is left, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Tips
- **Substitutions:** You can replace chicken gyros with grilled chicken breast or turkey slices for a different flavor.
- **Extra Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for more variety.
- **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approx. 520 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
Variations
- **Vegetarian:** Omit the chicken and add tofu or more vegetables like artichokes or olives for a vegetarian version.
- **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
- **Low Fat:** Substitute the sweet cream with a lower-fat version or yogurt for a lighter dish.
Serving Suggestions
- **Side Dishes:** Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- **Wine Pairing:** A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce nicely.
- **Garnishing Options:** Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano for added aroma and visual appeal.
Best Places
1. **Trattoria Romana** - Renowned for its authentic Italian pasta dishes. Location: 3 Via di Campo Marzio, Rome, Italy.
2. **Osteria Francescana** - A three-Michelin-star restaurant famous for its innovative Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
3. **Pasta e Sugo** - Offers a wide variety of pasta options in a cozy setting. Location: 12 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, Paris, France.
4. **Pasta Guyz** - A modern take on classic pasta flavors. Location: 1246 Fulton St, San Francisco, USA.
5. **Trattoria Milano** - Known for its homemade pasta and welcoming atmosphere. Location: Via del Tritone 30, Milan, Italy.
6. **The Pasta House** - A family-friendly spot with delicious pasta dishes. Location: 123 Broad St, Toronto, Canada.
7. **Pasta Fresca** - Famous for its fresh pasta and vibrant flavors. Location: 52 Amoy Street, Singapore.
8. **Mamma Maria** - Offers a taste of Italy with its traditional pasta recipes. Location: 101 Salem St, Boston, USA.
9. **La Pasta di Tullio** - Specializes in regional pasta variations. Location: Via Belsiana 23, Rome, Italy.
10. **Ristorante Pesto** - Combines fresh ingredients into delightful pasta dishes. Location: 1915 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, USA.
