Welcome back to another installment of “I can’t make anything without adding cheese.”
It’s true — not that you didn’t already suspect it.
I try. I really do. And then… well, I fail.
Food is just so much better with cheese. So much better.
I’m almost embarrassed to share this because it’s the kind of throw-together, what’s-in-the-fridge meal that feels improvised. But during the holiday rush — and let’s be honest, the season when cookies become dinner — quick and easy dinners deserve attention. Especially when they make delicious leftovers and free up time for the real priority: cookie baking. Mmmm.
30 Minute Baked Chicken Penne
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Ingredients
- 1/2 pound whole wheat penne
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 red onion, chopped
- 1/2 green pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 (14 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F. Bring water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika and dried basil.
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and peppers with a pinch of salt and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic. Increase heat to medium-high and add the chicken in a single layer; cook 5–6 minutes until browned, flip and cook another 5–6 minutes until cooked through.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, cream and Parmesan, mixing until combined. Add the cooked penne and toss to coat. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with the mozzarella, and bake 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through. Serve immediately with extra cheese to grate over the top.
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I appreciate you so much!
I’d promise no cheese tomorrow, buuuut… you know me better than that.