Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe

Want a tasty dinner that feels like a fancy restaurant meal? This Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe turns simple ingredients into a feast. It has tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Parmesan topping. This dish makes comfort food feel like a work of art.

Pair this amazing pasta with a side of roasted broccoli salad for a nutritious and colorful meal. Roasting vegetables brings out deep, caramelized flavors that match the creamy chicken penne perfectly. It’s a healthy and satisfying choice for dinner.

This recipe is easy to make and ready in just 45 minutes. It looks impressive and tastes amazing. Whether it’s for family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Parmesan Chicken Penne is sure to be a hit. Everyone will ask for it again and again.

The Perfect Italian-American Comfort Dish Overview

Parmesan Chicken Penne is a mix of Italian cooking and American comfort food. It’s loved for its rich flavors and cozy textures. This dish is a favorite in many U.S. homes.

History of Penne Pasta in Italian Cuisine

Penne pasta comes from Campania, Italy. Its tube shape is perfect for holding sauce. The name penna means “pen,” showing its quill-like look. Chefs love penne for its versatility in cooking.

Why Parmesan Chicken Became a Family Favorite

Parmesan Chicken is popular for its tasty mix of crispy chicken and cheesy coating. Families enjoy it for many reasons:

• It’s easy to make for weeknight dinners
• It’s liked by both kids and adults
• It’s great with different side dishes
• It has a good mix of protein and flavor

Health Benefits of Mediterranean-Style Cooking

Even though it’s not always vegetarian, Parmesan Chicken Penne has healthy Mediterranean touches. It combines lean protein, whole grains, and fresh ingredients. This mix is good for your health and well-being.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness,” as renowned chef Auguste Escoffier once said, perfectly capturing the spirit of this comforting meal.

Recipe Card

Creating nutritious meals doesn’t have to be hard. This Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe combines clean eating with tasty flavors. It will make your dinner time better.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• Large pasta pot
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Fresh Ingredients for a Superfood Salads Inspired Dish

• 2 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper
2. Cook penne pasta in salted water until al dente
3. Sauté chicken in olive oil until golden brown
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over chicken
5. Mix pasta with chicken and garnish with fresh basil

Pro tip: For the best clean eating experience, use organic ingredients whenever possible!

This recipe turns traditional comfort food into a healthy meal. It’s both filling and good for you. Enjoy making and eating it!

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools for Parmesan Chicken Penne Recipe

Making a tasty Parmesan Chicken Penne needs the right ingredients and tools. The key to this dish is using top-notch ingredients. They make the flavor and dining experience better.

Choosing the best ingredients is key to making a meal special. Here are the must-haves:

• Fresh chicken cutlets (preferably organic)
• Authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• High-quality olive oil
• Dried herbs like basil and oregano

If you like plant-based food, roasted veggies are great. Roasting broccoli adds amazing flavor to the pasta. It makes the meal even better.

“The secret to an exceptional dish lies in the quality of ingredients and careful preparation.” – Chef Maria Rodriguez

Tools are also crucial for this recipe. Get these essentials:

1. Heavy-bottomed skillet
2. Sharp chef’s knife
3. Large pasta pot
4. Baking sheet for roasting vegetables
5. Grater for fresh Parmesan

A roasted broccoli salad is a great side dish. It adds nutrition and color. Make sure to cut veggies evenly and season well for the best taste.

Pro tip: Use fresh ingredients and take your time preparing each part. The right tools and ingredients make a meal unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions and Pro Tips

Cooking a delicious Parmesan Chicken Penne is all about precision and passion. Our guide will turn your kitchen into an Italian culinary haven. You’ll create a memorable meal that goes great with healthy salad recipes.

Preparing the Chicken Cutlets

Begin by picking high-quality chicken breasts. Cut them evenly for even cooking. Dry the cutlets with paper towels to help the Parmesan stick.

• Choose fresh, boneless chicken breasts
• Slice to approximately 1/2 inch thickness
• Season with salt and pepper

Creating the Perfect Parmesan Coating

The secret to a crispy exterior is the coating. Mix grated Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. This also works well as a vegetarian dish alternative.

1. Combine breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan
2. Dip chicken in beaten eggs
3. Coat thoroughly with cheese mixture

Cooking the Penne Al Dente

Getting the pasta just right is an art. Boil it in salted water until it’s al dente. It should be firm but not hard.

“The pasta should have a slight resistance when bitten – that’s true Italian cooking!” – Chef Mario Batali

Assembling the Final Dish

Place your crispy Parmesan chicken on top of the cooked penne. Add a light sauce and garnish with fresh herbs. This dish is perfect with a side of a crisp garden salad.

• Layer pasta first
• Place chicken on top
• Sprinkle additional Parmesan
• Garnish with fresh basil

Conclusion

Making this Parmesan Chicken Penne recipe opens up a world of tasty meal prep ideas. It turns weeknight dinners into exciting culinary experiences. By mastering this simple recipe, home cooks can make nutritious meals that are as good as those from restaurants.

Clean eating doesn’t mean you have to give up flavor. This Italian-American classic shows how simple ingredients can make a satisfying and wholesome dish. The recipe’s flexibility lets you add your own touches and try different ingredients, helping you grow as a cook.

Choosing to cook at home lets you control what you eat and how much. Whether it’s a quick family dinner or meal prep for the week, this Parmesan Chicken Penne is perfect. It’s a great example of the joy of cooking – making delicious, comforting food that brings people together.

Let this recipe inspire you to try more Mediterranean-style cooking. With practice, you’ll find that making tasty, healthy meals is both fun and rewarding. Your culinary adventure starts here!