Penne with chicken and surimi

Penne with chicken and surimi - A quick and tasty delight

I propose a recipe for penne with chicken and surimi, which combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the fine textures of pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet flavorful dinner that will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g short pasta (preferably penne)
- 250 g chicken breast
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 7 surimi sticks (crab)
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 large onion
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Grated cheese or parmesan (to taste)
- Olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Water (for boiling the pasta)

Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Step 1: Preparing the pasta
To achieve al dente pasta, it's important to follow a few basic rules. In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil for every 100 g of pasta. Add a teaspoon of salt and a little olive oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. When the water reaches boiling point, add the pasta and stir gently. Cook uncovered on low heat according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water. Add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables and meat
In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then add the crushed garlic cloves and let them sauté for a few minutes, being careful not to burn them.

Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the chicken breast cut into thick strips of about 1 cm. Cook the meat until golden and well-cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the grated or sliced carrot and the sliced bell pepper. Cook all the vegetables together with the chicken, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce
In another pot, heat the peeled and chopped tomatoes, adding oregano, thyme, and the tablespoon of tomato paste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Assembling the dish
Once all the ingredients are ready, combine the pasta with the chicken and vegetable mixture from the skillet, gradually adding the tomato sauce. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the sauce.

Step 5: Serving
Divide the portion of penne with chicken and surimi onto plates. Sprinkle grated cheese or parmesan and chopped parsley on top for added flavor and a pleasing appearance.

Helpful tips:
- You can use whole grain pasta for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- Surimi can be replaced with other types of fish or seafood, depending on your preferences.
- Instead of fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes for a quicker sauce.
- Add your favorite spices or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits:
This penne with chicken and surimi recipe is nutritionally balanced, providing protein from chicken and surimi, fiber from vegetables, and carbohydrates from pasta. It is a filling meal that offers energy and essential nutrients, making it ideal for a family dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use rice pasta or other gluten-free alternatives to adapt the recipe.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add zucchini, broccoli, or spinach, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese to the tomato sauce for a richer texture.

This penne with chicken and surimi recipe is versatile and can be customized according to your preferences! Experiment with different ingredients and spices to give it a personal touch. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 g short pasta, 250 g chicken breast, carrot, 1 yellow bell pepper, about 7 crab surimi sticks, 4 tomatoes, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp chopped parsley for garnish, grated cheese or parmesan, 4-5 cloves of garlic, 1 large onion, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.

 Tags:  penne chicken breast surimi cheese