Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast ( Cut into bite-size pieces )
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 cups sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil ( Roughly chopped )
1 can chickpeas ( Drained & rinsed )
1 cup black olives ( Sliced )
1/2 cup pesto sauce ( More or less to taste )
2 cups ziti pasta ( Cooked per label directions & drained )
8 ounces mozzarella cheese ( Shredded , divided )
red pepper flakes ( To taste or Optional ) ( optional )
flat-leaf Italian parsley ( Garnish , roughly chopped )
Mediterranean Chicken & Pasta Skillet is a delicious and healthy one-pan meal that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of pesto sauce or red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to prepare a quick and easy meal that is nutritious, delicious and satisfying. It also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in your home.

Instructions

1.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
2.Add chicken and cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally
3.Add sun-dried tomatoes, chickpeas, black olives, and pesto sauce
4.Stir to combine and cook until heated through
5.Stir in cooked pasta and half the shredded mozzarella cheese
6.Top with remaining shredded cheese and cover skillet with a lid or aluminum foil
7.Cook on low heat for 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted
8.Serve hot with red pepper flakes and garnish with chopped parsley

PROS

This one-pan Mediterranean Chicken & Pasta Skillet is a quick, easy and healthy meal that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight option.
It is loaded with flavor and textures from juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, hearty chickpeas, salty black olives and nutty pesto.
Plus, it is a balanced meal with protein, fiber and healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese.

CONS

Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil and black olives are high in sodium, so be sure to rinse them well before adding to the skillet.
Also, excessive consumption of cheese might not be recommended for people with lactose intolerance or high cholesterol levels.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is a lean source of protein that helps build and repair muscles and promotes satiety. Olive oil and black olives are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats that help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber that help regulate blood sugar levels and promote digestive health. Sun-dried tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and protect against chronic diseases. Pesto sauce is made from antioxidant-rich basil, garlic and pine nuts that help boost immunity and reduce inflammation.

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