Budget Friendly Chicken Pasta
Budget Friendly Chicken Pasta is an easy and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all while being wallet-friendly. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be customized with any veggies or herbs you have on hand, ensuring a delightful dining experience for the entire family without breaking the bank.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne or spaghetti
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic to the skillet when chicken is nearly cooked through and stir until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning; let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce and chicken in the skillet, tossing well to coat.
- Plate the dish, topping each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For a healthier option, substitute chicken with turkey or use plant-based protein. - Add seasonal veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.