Penne with minced meat and tomato sauce
Penne with chicken breast and tomato sauce - A simple and tasty recipe for a perfect lunch or dinner
If you are looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful recipe, you are in the right place! This penne recipe with chicken breast and tomato sauce is an excellent choice, perfect for satisfying the whole family's appetite. With just a few simple ingredients, you will create a delicious dish that will make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients
- 400 g penne (or any type of pasta you prefer)
- 2 pieces of chicken breast (about 400-500 g)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can of tomatoes in sauce (about 400 g)
- 1 cup of water
- 2 bay leaves
- 100 g goat cheese (for added creaminess and flavor)
Step-by-step preparation
1. Boil the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but do not rinse it under running water to avoid removing the starch that helps the sauce adhere to the pasta.
2. Prepare the chicken breast
Wash the chicken breast well and debone it. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small cubes or chop it so that it cooks evenly.
3. Sauté the meat
In a saucepan, add the olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns white and slightly browned. This process will take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sauce
After the chicken is browned, pour in the soy sauce. This will add umami flavor to your dish. Stir well to combine the flavors. Then, add the water and canned tomatoes, including the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then add the bay leaves.
5. Cook the dish
Let everything simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time will allow the flavors to develop and combine.
6. Finalize the dish
After the sauce has simmered, remove the bay leaves and add the cooked pasta to the saucepan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Once everything is homogenized, sprinkle the goat cheese on top and cover the saucepan. Let it sit over low heat for another 5 minutes, so the cheese melts slightly and gives a creamy texture to the dish.
7. Serve
Serve the penne with chicken breast and tomato sauce hot, possibly with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones at a relaxed meal.
Practical tips
- Meat variations: If you want to try another type of meat, you can use turkey or ground pork. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to check that it is fully cooked.
- Pasta: You can replace penne with tagliatelle, fusilli, or even spaghetti, depending on your preferences.
- Cheese: Experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to add a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: Add black olives or roasted peppers for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein thanks to the chicken breast, providing a balanced and hearty meal. Additionally, tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Whole grain pasta can add essential fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.
Frequently asked questions
- Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions. It is best to keep them without the goat cheese, which you can add after thawing.
- Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! There are many gluten-free pasta options available on the market that will adapt well to this recipe.
- What drinks pair well with this dish?
Serve a glass of dry white wine or iced tea with lemon to complement the meal. Additionally, fresh lemonade can be a wonderful choice.
A personal note
This recipe reminds me of the evenings spent with family when we gathered around the table after a long day. Each bite is filled with memories and smiles. I encourage you to make it and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors!
I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!
Ingredients: 400 g penne, 2 pieces of chicken breast, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, salt, pepper, 1 can of tomatoes in sauce, 1 cup of water, 2 bay leaves, 100 g goat cheese.
