Here’s a recipe I made the other day that I wanted to share with you, since it is easy to make, contains healthful ingredients and is pretty tasty. I know many people lead busy lives, and taking the time to prepare a home cooked meal isn’t always easy. It always helps however, to have quick, easy recipes on hand, especially when they contain plenty of nutritious ingredients. Make sure you plan ahead and have your chicken purchased and thawed, as well as the vegetables on hand.

Recipe: Chicken & Vegetable Medley Penne

2 chicken breasts (cut and cubed).
Note: I generally try and purchase an organic brand, but use whatever works for you and your budget.
1 head of broccoli separated into pieces, or  1 prepared bag
1/2 package carrots
1/2 package mushrooms (sliced)
2 cloves of crushed garlic
Olive oil
1/2 to 3/4 cup shredded paremsan cheese
Salt
Pepper
Parsley
Basil
Parsely
Rosemary
1 package penne pasta
Note: I tried this Banza Penne, which I purchased at Target and is made from chick peas in place of regular pasta. This may work for anyone out there that has issue with gluten. I actually chose it for the high protein and iron content and I have to admit it was pretty tasty.

Banza Penne (Made with chick peas)

If you are interested in trying this penne, here is another good reason to check it out. Look at the ingredient list. It contains only 4 items, which is great! When selecting processed foods, it is always better to select products that have fewer ingredients. In fact, those that contain 5 ingredients or less, are usually the best options to help us avoid unnecessary preservatives, or additives.

Anyway—here are the directions:

Prepare the penne pasta, following the the directions on the package. When the penne is fully cooked, remove it from the heat and using a strainer, strain off the water and set aside. Coat a large frying pan with olive oil. Add the chicken and saute on medium heat. Sprinkle with the salt, pepper, parsely, basil, and rosemary, or add whatever spice or seasoning you like. Add the prepared vegetables and saute until they are just slightly crisp.
Note: Keep in mind, you can add in other vegetables you like, or have on hand. You may as well add in vegetables that you like.

Add the penne pasta.

Top with the Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Enjoy!

Barb