Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that won't break the calorie bank? Look no further than our recipe for 1 serving Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken! This dish packs in a whopping 1040 calories, making it a great option for those who need a lot of energy to power through their day.
But don't let the calorie count scare you off - this dish is packed with plenty of nutrition as well. The combination of pasta, chicken, and veggies makes for a well-rounded meal that will leave you feeling satisfied for hours.
In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make this dish a success. From the ingredients you'll need to the step-by-step instructions for preparing it, we'll cover it all!
Ingredients
To make 1 serving of Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken, you will need:
- 1/2 cup uncooked whole wheat penne pasta
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Note: You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, but whole wheat pasta will provide extra fiber and nutrients. You can also use any cooked chicken you have on hand - leftover rotisserie chicken works well!
Preparation Instructions
Here's how to make 1 serving of Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, cherry tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, parmesan cheese, basil, garlic, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Mix well and transfer to a 1-cup baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken!
Nutritional Value
Here's a breakdown of the nutrition facts for 1 serving of Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken:
- calories: 1040
- Total Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 121mg
- Sodium: 802mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 116g
- Dietary Fiber: 14g
- Total Sugars: 13g
- Protein: 80g
This dish provides a great balance of macronutrients, with plenty of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Plus, the fiber content is impressive, making this a great option for those looking to boost their fiber intake.
Alternative Options
Looking to make some changes to this dish? Here are a few ideas:
- Try using a different type of pasta, such as whole grain or gluten-free.
- Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- Add more veggies! Mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini would all be great additions to this dish.
- For a little extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Get creative and make this recipe your own!
Serving Size
This recipe makes 1 serving of Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, here's how to store them:
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, transfer to a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second increments until heated through.
Note: The texture of the pasta may change slightly upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!
Health Benefits
This dish offers plenty of health benefits, such as:
- High protein content to promote muscle repair and growth.
- High fiber content to aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness.
- Plenty of vitamins and minerals from the veggies.
- Low in cholesterol and saturated fat.
All in all, this is a great choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
This dish contains gluten and dairy (from the parmesan cheese). If you need to make it gluten-free or dairy-free, try these substitutions:
- Use gluten-free pasta instead of wheat pasta.
- Use a dairy-free cheese substitute, such as nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
Cost-effective Alternatives
Looking to save some money on this recipe? Here are a few tips:
- Buy pasta and chicken in bulk to save money in the long run.
- Use frozen veggies instead of fresh to save money and reduce food waste.
- Look for deals on parmesan cheese to save a few bucks.
With a little savvy shopping, you can make this dish for less!
Variation Ideas
Looking for some variations on this recipe? Here are a few ideas:
- Try using a different type of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella.
- If you like spice, add some diced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Swap out the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor.
Experiment with different ingredients and find your favorite version of this classic dish!
5 FAQ about Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken
1. What is Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken?
Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken is a delicious Italian pasta dish made with penne pasta, chicken, tomato sauce, cream, and a blend of parmesan and mozzarella cheese. The pasta is baked in the oven until hot and bubbly, and then served fresh out of the oven.
2. How many calories are in one serving?
One serving of Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken contains approximately 1040 calories. However, calorie count may vary depending on the serving size and the specific ingredients used in the recipe.
3. What are some alternate ingredients that can be used in the dish?
While the dish is traditionally made with penne pasta, chicken, tomato sauce, and cream, there are several alternate ingredients that can be used as well. For example, you could swap out the penne pasta for spaghetti or fettuccine, or add in some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
4. How long does it take to make Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken?
The total cook time for Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the specific recipe being used and the cooking abilities of the person making it. Generally, however, the dish can be prepared in around 1 hour, including prep time and bake time.
5. Is Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken a healthy option?
While Baked Pasta Romana with Chicken is definitely a tasty dish, it is not necessarily the healthiest option available. The dish is high in calories and fat, and may contain large amounts of sodium depending on the recipe used. However, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.