Thursday, December 2, 2010

Chicken Pesto Pasta

Life is so hectic these days—work, family, chores, obligations…there doesn’t seem to be enough time to plan. For those nights when thinking isn’t an option, try this tip. Keep staples like frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the freezer, along with pasta in the pantry and jarred pesto and fresh grated parmesan in the refrigerator. Here’s what happens after work:

Take out two frozen, skinless chicken breasts from the freezer. Put them in a freezer baggie, and fill the sink with lukewarm water. Place breasts in water to thaw. In the meantime, cook some penne pasta (whole wheat is a healthy option) along with broccoli florets if you have them on hand. Grab some pesto sauce from the refrigerator (basil or sun-dried tomato flavors). If you have sundried tomatoes, chop those up. When pasta is done, drain and place in large bowl, add two or three tablespoons of pesto. Toss and add the sundried tomatoes, broccoli and fresh or dried parsley for a nice, additional touch of green. Drizzle in some olive oil. When chicken breasts have completely thawed, season and sauté in a skillet or cook on an indoor grill. When breasts are done, chop up and add to pasta. Toss together and top with an additional drizzle of olive oil and some fresh, grated parmesan cheese. Dinner done!