Chicken Penne Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing
Try this Chicken Penne Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing recipe.
Try this Chicken Penne Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing recipe.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- salt and pepper to taste (i used about 1 teaspoon
- 1-2 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
- 1-2 teaspoons italian seasoning (1 tsp per chicken breast)
- 2 cups dry penne pasta regular or whole wheat
- 4 cups baby spinach or similar dark greens
- 1 12- ounce jar roasted red peppers drained and chopped
- 1 7- ounce jar sundried tomatoes (about 2/3-1 cup) chopped
- 1 cup diced white cheese (smoked mozzarella sharp white cheddar, creamy havarti, etc)
- 1/4 cup fat free plain greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayo (i used light)
- Carbohydrate 26.0880876899294 g
- Cholesterol 36.2889705882353 mg
- Fat 2.4973947530712 g
- Fiber 0.419914779004691 g
- Protein 7.42852482274335 g
- Saturated Fat 1.03227714486895 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 (63g)
- Sodium 121.600671896644 mg
- Sugar 25.6681729109247 g
- Trans Fat 0.399015036604035 g
- Calories 157 calories
Step-by-step
- Place penne in a medium saucepan. Cover noodles with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in an oiled pan or skillet over medium heat 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board and chop into 1-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl toss together penne, chicken, spinach, red peppers, sundried tomatoes, and cheese.
- Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth.
- Pour dressing over salad ingredients, toss to combine, and serve.
A Busy Mom's Go-To: Chicken Penne Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing
Life as a mom is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the household afloat, finding time for anything beyond the basics can feel impossible. That’s why I’ve become a huge advocate for quick, delicious meals that don't compromise on flavor or nutrition. This Chicken Penne Salad with Creamy Parmesan Dressing is my absolute go-to, a recipe I’ve perfected over years of juggling motherhood and everything else that comes with it.
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It's a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, making it a budget-friendly option as well. I often roast a whole chicken on the weekend, shredding the meat to use in various dishes throughout the week. This salad is a perfect example of how that leftover chicken can transform into a quick, satisfying lunch or light dinner. And the best part? The kids love it! Getting them to eat their veggies has always been a challenge, but this salad somehow makes spinach and sundried tomatoes surprisingly appealing.
The creamy parmesan dressing is the star of the show. It's rich and flavorful, but surprisingly light. I've experimented with various versions over the years, adjusting the ratios of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to achieve the perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess. Using light mayonnaise helps to keep the calorie count down, making this a guilt-free indulgence. And the parmesan cheese? Well, that just adds an irresistible salty, umami punch that elevates the whole dish.
I've found that this salad is exceptionally versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Smoked mozzarella, sharp white cheddar, or even creamy havarti all work wonderfully. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what's fresh and available. Sometimes I'll add some artichoke hearts or bell peppers for an extra burst of color and flavor. The key is to keep it simple and let the fresh ingredients shine.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a time-saver, a stress reliever, and a delicious way to nourish my family. On busy weeknights, it’s my lifeline, offering a quick and satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. The leftovers are just as good the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option. So, if you’re a busy mom (or anyone else who appreciates a quick and easy yet flavorful meal), I highly recommend giving this Chicken Penne Salad a try. It’s guaranteed to become a staple in your own kitchen.
Beyond the practical aspects, this salad has become a symbol of my commitment to healthy eating. I believe that healthy doesn't have to mean bland or boring. This salad proves that you can enjoy delicious, flavorful food while still maintaining a balanced diet. The vibrant colors, the fresh ingredients, and the creamy parmesan dressing all contribute to a satisfying and wholesome meal that nourishes both body and soul.
The best thing about this salad? The ease of preparation, the delicious taste, and the versatility. It's a recipe that can be adapted to your own preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. It's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, and it's a recipe that I’ll be making for years to come. So, give it a try. Let me know what you think, and feel free to share your own variations!
