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Easy Chicken Parmesan Pasta

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A delightful dish combining tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked penne for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10.5 oz (300 g) penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (20 g) unsalted butter
  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups (300 ml) tomato sauce (passata)
  • 1 cup half and half (single cream)
  • ½ cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, reserving 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté the chicken: In a large, deep pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and melt the butter. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Add aromatics: Stir in the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and optional red chili flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the onion to soften.
  4. Build the sauce: Add the Italian seasoning, pour in the tomato sauce, stirring well. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Make it creamy: Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the half and half. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked penne into the pan, ensuring it’s fully coated in the creamy sauce. Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
  7. Garnish and serve: Top with chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Great with a simple salad or garlic bread. Can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.

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