During the relentless beat of the modern workday, finding time for a delectable homemade dinner like chicken penne with asparagus and peas often feels like a dream. Caught in a whirlwind of tasks and watching the clock hit 8, the dilemma remains: to embrace the kitchen or just reach for that granola bar?
To aid in such pressing moments, I present an enticing solution – a recipe for a quick yet mouthwatering Chicken Penne accentuated with Asparagus and Peas. This dish, an ideal companion for those on a tight schedule, promises a savory dinner in no time. A couple of chicken breasts and basic pantry staples are all you need, and voilà – a delectable meal is ready in 20 minutes or less for the swift cook in you.
A Simple Symphony of Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A splash of butter or olive oil
- 12 oz. penne pasta
- A cup of fresh or frozen peas
- A bunch of tender asparagus, trimmed and diced into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 2/3 cup cream (substitute with half and half or milk for lighter alternatives)
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- A handful (1/2 cup) of chopped basil
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish
Crafting Your Swift Delicacy
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breasts. In a medium-hot skillet, melt a couple of tablespoons of butter or heat some olive oil. Sear the chicken until fully cooked, cut into long strips, and set aside.
- Boil salted water in a pot and follow the package instructions to cook the pasta. As it nears readiness, introduce the peas into the boiling water for about 90 seconds. Retain a bit of the pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
- Parallelly, use the chicken-cooked skillet to sauté the asparagus and garlic in a bit more butter or oil. Season this mixture, then add wine and let it simmer until reduced. Remove from heat.
- Whip the milk or half and half together with the egg and a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Pour this creamy concoction into the warm pan, followed by the hot pasta, peas, and half portions of your Parmesan and basil. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the egg, resulting in a silky texture. If needed, loosen the sauce with the saved pasta water. Mix in the cooked chicken and garnish with the remaining Parmesan and basil, and perhaps a sprinkle of pine nuts.
Healthy Note:
This dish is not only quick to make but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides a solid protein source, penne offers much-needed carbohydrates, while asparagus and peas supply an abundance of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, garlic boosts immunity, and basil contains anti-inflammatory properties. So, as you savor this dish, you’re also investing in your health!