If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italian-American cuisine right to your kitchen, look no further than Staten Island Pasta with Chicken! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich marinara sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian-American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 8 oz of penne pasta, 2 diced chicken breasts, 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce, 1 sliced bell pepper, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese for serving.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Next, add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- When the pasta is finished cooking, drain it in a colander and then add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve the Staten Island Pasta with Chicken hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Enjoy your delicious Italian-American meal with family or friends!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and dice the chicken ahead of time. This will streamline the cooking process and make it even quicker to get dinner on the table!
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: Make sure to salt the boiling water before adding the penne pasta. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Aim for al dente texture, as the pasta will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the bell pepper and onion.
- Enhance the Sauce: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce while it simmers. It pairs beautifully with the chicken and adds a rich undertone.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the grated Parmesan cheese when serving! It adds a deliciously creamy finish that elevates the dish.
- Make it Your Own: Experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat!
- Leftover Magic: This dish reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
