Penne with minced chicken and peas

Penne with minced chicken and peas – A comforting and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love pasta? It is a symbol of culinary comfort, and today's recipe, penne with minced chicken and peas, is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Penne pasta is perfect for catching the rich sauce, and the combination with juicy chicken and fresh peas makes it ideal for any occasion. Let's embark on this culinary journey step by step!

Ingredients needed

- 300 g penne pasta
- 200 g minced chicken
- 1 large ripe tomato
- 1/2 jar (about 150 g) of peas (fresh or canned)
- 1 medium white onion
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- Salt, pepper, sweet paprika, basil (to taste)
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Step by step: Cooking penne with minced chicken and peas

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by placing a large pot of water on the heat. Add a handful of salt and bring the water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the meat: While the pasta is boiling, take a large skillet and add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat and add the minced chicken. Fry the meat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until browned and well cooked.

3. Adding the wine: Once the meat is browned, add half a glass of white wine. This will give a special flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to blend perfectly.

4. Including the vegetables: Peel and slice the onion into thin scales. Add the onion to the skillet, mixing well with the meat. Let everything simmer over medium heat, adding a little water (about 100 ml) to prevent sticking. Season with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and basil. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Finishing the sauce: Now, pour in the drained peas and the grated tomato into the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Add a ladle of the pasta cooking water to thin the sauce. Finally, incorporate the sour cream and mix everything to achieve a creamy texture.

6. Mixing the pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain it and add it directly to the skillet, mixing well to coat evenly in the sauce. Let it cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes so that the pasta absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Serving

Once all the ingredients are well combined, take a deep plate and serve the portions of penne with minced chicken and peas. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top, if you like, for an extra burst of flavor. You can also add some fresh basil leaves for an attractive appearance and vibrant aroma.

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can replace the chicken with minced turkey or use beef for a different taste. You can also add other vegetables, such as grated carrots or bell peppers, to enhance the nutritional value and culinary diversity.
- Cooking techniques: Make sure the heat is not too high when frying the meat to avoid burning it. Additionally, adding water or wine during cooking will help maintain a juicy texture.
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein from the chicken and contains essential vitamins from the vegetables. Peas are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds more nutrients and a deeper flavor. Cook it according to the package instructions.

2. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with tofu or mushrooms and add more vegetables to keep the recipe flavorful.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
Serve a glass of chilled white wine or fresh lemonade to complement the meal.

Personal note

For me, this recipe for penne with minced chicken and peas is not just a simple dish, but also a pleasant childhood memory when my mom would prepare pasta for the whole family. I remember how we would all gather around the table, sharing stories and savoring every bite. I hope you also create beautiful moments around this meal. Happy cooking!

 Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta, 200 g ground chicken, 1 tomato, 1/2 jar of peas, 1 white onion, 2 tablespoons of sour cream, salt/pepper/sweet paprika/basil, grated parmesan