Penne With Chicken And Asparagus Recipe

Ingredients

Pantry Staples:

The success of a dish like Penne with Chicken and Asparagus depends largely on the quality and quantity of ingredients used. Here are some pantry staples that play a crucial role in bringing this recipe to life:

**Grains:** A good source of carbohydrates, whole wheat penne pasta is an essential ingredient for this dish. It provides a solid base for the sauce and the protein.

**Protein:** The chicken breast serves as the main protein source in this recipe. Make sure to use boneless and skinless chicken breast to avoid any unwanted textures or flavors.

**Vegetables:** Fresh asparagus is a key component of this dish, providing a burst of freshness and nutrients. Choose thin spears for better cooking results.

**Dairy:** Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the pasta, while heavy cream or half-and-half can be used to enrich the sauce.

**Pantry items:**
• Dried basil: Adds an earthy and slightly bitter taste.
• Dried oregano: Contributes a pungent flavor and aroma.
• Garlic powder: Provides depth and richness to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the dish.

In addition to these ingredients, you may also want to have some olive oil on hand for sautéing the chicken and asparagus, as well as some chopped fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor and texture.

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta

The ingredient list for the Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe begins with the pasta, which forms the base of the dish.

Penne pasta is a type of Italian pasta that has angled ends and a tube-like shape.

• 8 oz (225g) penne pasta – This is the amount required for this specific recipe. The quantity can be adjusted according to personal preferences or the number of servings desired.

The key characteristics of good-quality penne pasta include a firm texture and a slightly rough surface, which helps sauces cling to it during cooking. It is made from durum wheat semolina, water, and sometimes egg. The best choice for this recipe would be a high-protein, low-carb variety that cooks evenly.

The next ingredient on the list will be chicken breast or thighs, which will provide the protein component of the dish.

• 2 cups (475ml) lowsodium chicken broth

The ingredients for this Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe include low-sodium chicken broth, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of the dish without adding excessive saltiness. A total of 2 cups (475ml) of this essential component are required to create the rich and savory sauce that complements the penne pasta, juicy chicken, and crunchy asparagus.

The low-sodium content of the chicken broth is particularly significant in this recipe, as it allows for a delicate balance of flavors without overpowering the other ingredients. This careful selection of ingredient contributes significantly to the overall taste experience of the dish, ensuring that each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

When selecting low-sodium chicken broth, it’s essential to choose a product with minimal added salt while still maintaining its rich and meaty flavor profile. This will help to prevent any unwanted savory or salty overtones that could potentially disrupt the balance of the dish. By opting for low-sodium options, home cooks can create more versatile recipes that cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences.

• 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese is a key ingredient in many Italian dishes, including this Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe. The 1/4 cup (60g) called for in the recipe represents a significant portion of Parmesan cheese, which is often used to add depth and richness to sauces and seasonings.

The term “grated” refers to the texture of the cheese, which has been shredded or ground into fine particles. This process helps to release the flavors and oils within the cheese, making it easier to incorporate into the dish. In this recipe, the grated Parmesan cheese is likely used to add a salty, nutty flavor to the pasta sauce.

Parmesan cheese is made from cow’s milk, which is fermented with enzymes to create a hard, aged cheese. The aging process can take anywhere from several months to several years, during which time the cheese develops its characteristic flavor and texture. Younger Parmesan cheeses tend to be milder and creamier, while older cheeses are often more robust and crystalline.

The amount of 60g represents a specific weight measurement for the grated Parmesan cheese. This is equivalent to about 2 ounces, or roughly 1/4 cup when measured by volume. It’s worth noting that different countries may use varying units of measurement for ingredients, but in this context, 60g is the specified amount.

The importance of using high-quality Parmesan cheese cannot be overstated. Look for a well-aged, artisanal cheese to get the best flavor and texture. Some popular brands include Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano, which are both known for their rich, nutty flavors.

When incorporating grated Parmesan cheese into the Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe, be sure to sprinkle it over the dish just before serving. This will help preserve the texture and prevent the cheese from becoming soggy or lost in the sauce.

Cut and Prepared Ingredients:

The ingredients needed for this recipe are relatively straightforward, but some preparation steps can help to simplify the cooking process.

To make a delicious penne pasta dish, you will need the following items:

* 1 pound of chicken breast or thighs

* 1 large onion

* 3 cloves of garlic

* 2 large asparagus spears

* 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

* 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley

* 2 tablespoons olive oil

* Salt and pepper, to taste

* 12 ounces penne pasta

Now that we have our ingredients listed, let’s talk about some preparation steps. It is a good idea to prepare your asparagus spears before cooking them.

* First, cut off the ends of the asparagus and discard them.

* Next, place the asparagus in a bowl of ice water for 10-15 minutes to help preserve their texture.

* After the asparagus has sat in the ice water, drain it and pat it dry with paper towels.

Now that your ingredients are prepared, you can start cooking your penne pasta according to package instructions. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne until it is al dente.

While the pasta cooks, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Once the chicken has cooked through, add the onion to the skillet and sauté for another minute or two, or until the onion starts to soften.

Add in the garlic and cook for just a few seconds, until fragrant. Then remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Using the same skillet, add the second tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the asparagus spears over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender but still crisp.

Add in the cooked pasta to the skillet with the asparagus, and toss it together until the asparagus is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.

Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot. Top each serving of pasta with a slice of chicken, some grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley.

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bitesized pieces

The success of Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe heavily relies on the selection and preparation of ingredients, particularly when it comes to the protein component. For this recipe, you will need 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, which can be cut into bite-sized pieces.

This amount of chicken is sufficient for a serving of four, assuming that each person has a moderate portion size. You can choose to use either the breast or thigh meat, depending on your personal preference and the desired texture in the dish. If you opt for the breast, make sure to trim any excess fat to prevent a greasy outcome.

When selecting the chicken, look for pieces that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. This is particularly important when using the same cooking method, as seen in Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe where both the pasta and protein are cooked simultaneously.

The bite-sized pieces allow for better penetration of flavors and textures throughout each bite, elevating the overall dining experience. Moreover, cutting the chicken into smaller portions enables it to cook more efficiently in the presence of other ingredients such as asparagus, garlic, and herbs, all while maintaining its moisture content.

Incorporating these key components will elevate your Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe to a whole new level, making it an ideal option for both weeknight meals and special occasions. By mastering the art of selecting and preparing ingredients, you can unlock a world of flavors that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

• 2 cups (250g) fresh asparagus spears, trimmed

The key to a delicious Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe lies in the quality and freshness of its ingredients, particularly when it comes to the asparagus spears. In this case, we’re working with 2 cups (250g) of fresh asparagus, which have been expertly trimmed.

The trimming process is crucial as it removes any tough or fibrous parts from the spears, allowing them to cook evenly and retain their delicate flavor and texture. Fresh asparagus is a seasonal ingredient that’s typically available in the spring and early summer, making this recipe perfect for those times of year.

The ideal time to harvest asparagus is when it reaches its peak ripeness, which can vary depending on the specific variety. When selecting fresh asparagus, look for spears with tightly closed tips and a vibrant green color. The tips should also be slightly tender to the touch.

Before trimming your asparagus spears, make sure to rinse them under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on their surface. Pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting their flavor and texture in the recipe.

Once trimmed and cleaned, the fresh asparagus spears are ready to be used in your Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe. This versatile vegetable can be cooked in a variety of ways, including steaming, roasting, sautéing, or grilling, depending on your personal preference.

In this recipe, the asparagus spears will add a burst of fresh flavor and color to each bite of penne pasta, while their delicate texture provides a nice contrast to the rich and savory chicken sauce. By selecting the freshest ingredients possible, you’ll be able to showcase the natural flavors and textures that make this dish so delicious.

Instructions

Cook the Penne Pasta:

To cook Penne pasta, follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather Ingredients

• Penne pasta (12 oz)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Step 2: Prepare the Pot

Fill a large pot with cold water and add salt to taste.

• Cover the pot with a lid
• Bring the water to a boil over high heat

Step 3: Cook the Penne Pasta

• Once the water is boiling, add the Penne pasta
• Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes or until it’s al dente
• Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together

Step 4: Drain and Serve

• Drain the Penne pasta in a colander
• Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
• Set aside until needed for the Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe

Now that you have cooked your Penne pasta, it’s ready to be used as part of the Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe. Simply toss the cooked Penne pasta with the grilled chicken and steamed asparagus, and enjoy!

• Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan.

To prepare this delicious Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe, follow these step-by-step instructions.

Step 1: Bring the Chicken Broth to a Boil

The first step in creating this mouthwatering dish is to bring the chicken broth to a boil. This involves heating the chicken broth in a large saucepan over high heat, until it reaches its boiling point.

Why Bring the Broth to a Boil?

Bringing the chicken broth to a boil helps to release its natural flavors and aromas, which will then infuse into the pasta and chicken. It also ensures that the vegetables are cooked evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While waiting for the broth to boil, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt and pepper. You can also add any other herbs or spices you like to give it a unique flavor.

Some Tips for Cooking Chicken

• Make sure to pat dry the chicken before cooking it to prevent excess moisture from interfering with browning.
• Cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it is browned on all sides and cooked through.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a safe minimum of 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Cook the Penne Pasta

Once the broth is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. You can also add some olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Some Tips for Cooking Pasta

• Use a large pot to hold the pasta, as excess water will be used to cook the asparagus later.
• Cook the pasta until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Some people prefer their pasta al dente, while others like it soft and tender.

Step 4: Cook the Asparagus

After cooking the pasta, remove it from the heat and add the asparagus to the saucepan. Cook the asparagus in the hot broth for about 3-5 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.

Some Tips for Cooking Asparagus

• Cook the asparagus over low-medium heat, so it doesn’t get soggy or lose its texture.
• Taste the asparagus frequently and adjust the cooking time according to your preference.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once all the components are ready, assemble the dish by placing cooked penne pasta on a plate, topping it with sliced chicken and asparagus. Drizzle with some extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Some Final Tips for Serving

• Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or edible flowers to add color and visual appeal.
• Consider serving this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal.

• Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

The first step in preparing this Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe involves cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.

It’s essential to follow the specific directions provided on the packaging of the penne pasta, as these guidelines are tailored to achieve the perfect level of doneness. This typically includes boiling a large pot of salted water, submerging the pasta within it, and then allowing it to cook for the recommended duration.

Al dente texture is an Italian term that refers to the perfect balance between firmness and tenderness in cooked pasta. It’s achieved when the penne pasta still retains a slight resistance or ‘bite’ in its center, but no longer feels hard or crunchy.

Monitoring the cooking time closely is crucial to avoid undercooking or overcooking the penne pasta, which can result in an unpleasant texture and compromise the overall dish. Therefore, it’s recommended to frequently check on the pasta while it’s cooking and adjust the timing accordingly.

Once the penne pasta has reached the desired al dente consistency, it should be drained immediately and set aside for further preparation with the chicken and asparagus components of this recipe.

• Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

In the instructions for preparing a delicious Penne with Chicken and Asparagus dish, we find one crucial step that significantly affects the final outcome of the recipe: reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

This instruction may seem straightforward at first glance, but its importance lies in the fact that it allows us to create a sauce that is not only creamy but also perfectly balanced and seasoned. When we cook penne pasta, it releases starches into the water, which can make the sauce too thick if not enough liquid is left behind.

Reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining essentially gives us a buffer zone to add back into the sauce later on. This means that we can adjust the consistency and flavor of the sauce to our liking without compromising its overall quality.

Moreover, using reserved pasta water allows us to utilize the natural flavors and nutrients present in the pasta itself. By incorporating this liquid back into the dish, we can intensify the taste and aroma of the asparagus, chicken, and penne, ultimately resulting in a more authentic and satisfying flavor profile.

Furthermore, reserving pasta water is an environmentally friendly practice that minimizes food waste. Instead of discarding the excess starch-laden liquid, we get to repurpose it as a valuable component of our recipe.

In summary, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining is a crucial step in preparing Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe. It enables us to create a rich, creamy sauce that showcases the natural flavors of the ingredients while also reducing food waste and promoting sustainability.

Tips and Variations

Adding Flavor with Herbs:

When it comes to adding flavor to the **Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe**, herbs play a crucial role in elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Here are some tips and variations to help you make the most of your herb garden or pantry:

1. Aromatics first: When sautéing onions, garlic, and other aromatics in butter or oil, use a combination of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley to create a fragrant base for the dish.

2. Basil at its best: Fresh basil is an excellent addition to pasta dishes, especially when paired with ingredients like chicken and asparagus. Simply chop it up and add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.

3. Parsley power: This versatile herb can be used in both fresh and dried forms. Add a handful of chopped parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness, or use dried parsley as a substitute in recipes when fresh isn’t available.

4. Rosemary’s robust flavor: Rosemary is an excellent pairing with chicken and can add a lovely piney flavor to the **Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe**. Use it sparingly, however, as its boldness can overpower other flavors in the dish.

5. Mix-and-match magic: Don’t be afraid to combine different herbs to create unique flavor profiles. For example, pairing thyme with rosemary or basil with parsley can add depth and interest to the dish.

Remember to use fresh herbs whenever possible and store them properly to preserve their flavor and aroma. With a little experimentation and creativity, you can unlock the full potential of herbs in your **Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe**!

• Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

The versatility of this Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe allows for numerous variations and creative twists, ensuring that you can adapt it to suit your tastes and preferences.

One simple yet effective variation involves adding a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. This addition enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish without overpowering its delicate balance of chicken, asparagus, and pasta.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider substituting some or all of the chicken broth with heavy cream or half-and-half. Alternatively, add a splash of grated Parmesan cheese to enrich the flavor and texture of the sauce.

For an added layer of flavor and moisture, try sautéing sliced onions or shallots before adding the garlic. This will create a depth of flavor that complements the chicken and asparagus perfectly.

A different approach is to incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the recipe. Simply chop them up and add them to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing their intense tomato flavor to meld with the other ingredients.

Consider using roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a deeper, nuttier flavor. Simply slice the top off a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes until tender and mashed.

Incorporating lemon juice or zest adds a bright, citrusy note to balance out the richness of the dish. Try squeezing fresh lemon juice over the penne before serving or sprinkling some grated lemon zest on top for added visual appeal.

• Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.

The versatility of Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe allows for various tweaks to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. To enhance the flavor profile, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added to the dish.

When it comes to choosing fresh herbs, consider their distinct flavors: parsley has a mild, green taste, while basil brings a more pronounced, aromatic flavor. Experiment with different combinations of fresh herbs to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Another way to add depth to this recipe is by using infused oils, such as garlic or herb-infused oil, in place of regular olive oil. This will not only elevate the flavor but also reduce the amount of oil needed in the dish.

For a spicy kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top of the chicken before serving, or add some sliced red pepper flakes to the pasta while it’s cooking for an added burst of heat.

Consider substituting chicken with other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Simply adjust the cooking time and method according to your protein choice.

Add some nuts or seeds, such as pine nuts or pumpkin seeds, to the pasta for added crunch and nutrition. Toasted almonds or pistachios also work well in this recipe.

To make this dish more substantial, toss in some cooked vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. Feel free to use any combination of colors and textures you enjoy.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with the sauce! Instead of using store-bought tomato sauce, try making your own by blending fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a blender or food processor.