Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta
Try this Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- salt & pepper
- 1 shallot, chopped
- 6 cups chopped kale
- 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz gluten-free or regular farfelle pasta or other short-cut pasta
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 8 oz sliced button mushrooms
- 1/2 - 3/4 cup chicken broth divided
- 4 oz mascarpone cheese
- Carbohydrate 1.65185371517091 g
- Cholesterol 38.8102566632703 mg
- Fat 13.6662470209927 g
- Fiber 0.0314999985694885 g
- Protein 1.80667515734293 g
- Saturated Fat 7.44091974693218 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (148g)
- Sodium 257.050969159718 mg
- Sugar 1.62035371660142 g
- Trans Fat 1.6193427373483 g
- Calories 134 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain then set aside.
- Heat 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper then add to skillet and cook until no longer pink in the center. Remove to a plate then set aside.
- Heat remaining teaspoon oil in skillet then add shallots and saute until they begin to turn golden brown, 1 minute. Add butter and melt then add mushrooms, season with salt and pepper, and saute until mushrooms begin to turn golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Add kale and garlic then saute until kale begins to wilt, 1 minute.
- Add 1/3 cup chicken broth to skillet then place a lid on top and steam until kale is tender, 3-4 minutes. When tender, add mascarpone cheese and enough chicken broth to make a sauce then stir until smooth.
- Stir in cooked pasta and chicken then taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary.
Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and extracurricular activities, the last thing I want to do when I get home is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I'm constantly on the lookout for quick, easy, and satisfying recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta is a perfect example: it’s ready in under 30 minutes, packed with flavor and nutrients, and surprisingly simple to make. Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes; this dish is my go-to for a stress-free weeknight meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses readily available ingredients, most of which I usually have on hand. The combination of creamy mascarpone cheese, earthy mushrooms, and tender kale creates a rich and satisfying sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. The chicken adds protein, making it a complete and balanced meal. I often double the recipe on busy weeks and have leftovers for lunch the next day – a true time-saver! The slightly nutty flavor of the pasta pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that's hard to resist. The kale adds a touch of green goodness to the otherwise rich and decadent dish, making it feel healthier without sacrificing any flavor. And the best part is, it's adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to swap out the farfalle pasta for your favorite shape, or add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for an extra boost of nutrients.
What makes this recipe so special? Besides its speed and deliciousness, it's also surprisingly versatile. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a light lunch. I've even been known to make a slightly larger batch and freeze individual portions for those incredibly busy weeks when even 30 minutes in the kitchen feels like a luxury. The flavors meld beautifully when reheated, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. It's a recipe that truly adapts to my ever-changing lifestyle, allowing me to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without sacrificing valuable time.
This Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta recipe isn't just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple cooking. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, we can still find time to nourish ourselves and our families with delicious, healthy, and satisfying food. It's a recipe that celebrates the joy of creating a comforting and flavorful meal without needing extensive culinary skills or hours of preparation. And honestly, that's something every busy woman can appreciate.
Tips and variations:
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, for a more intense flavor.
- Garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of parsley before serving.
- If you don't have mascarpone cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or cream cheese.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner, give this Creamy Kale & Mushroom Chicken Pasta a try. You won't be disappointed!
