Ingredients
Scale
Gathering ingredients is like preparing for an adventure, each one a piece of the story we’re about to create. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 cups uncooked penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
If you’re looking to make substitutions, you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist or swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to suit your preference. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility, much like my mother’s improvisational cooking style.
Instructions
The process of making this dish is as enjoyable as the result. Here’s how to bring it to life:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, uncooked penne pasta, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This step-by-step process is much like the way I learned to cook with my grandmother, taking each step with care and patience. Remember, there’s no rush in creating something beautiful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International