Parmesan Chicken and Pene Pasta

Parmesan Chicken and Pene Pasta

Broiled chicken parm and broccoli-packed pasta are faster than delivery (and better for you).

Everyday Food, October 2007

            Prep Time
25 minutes

            Total Time
35 minutes

            Yield
Serves 2

Ingredients

            Coarse salt and ground pepper

            1 large eggs

         1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan

            1/4 cup plain dried breadcrumbs

            1  chicken breast

            1 cups tomato sauce, homemade or store bought

            2 ounces part-skim mozzarella, shredded (about 1 cup)

            4 ounces penne rigate (ridged) or other short pasta

            1/2 package (10 ounces) frozen broccoli florets, thawed 

            1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

.                 Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Heat broiler, with rack set 4 inches from heat. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine Parmesan and breadcrumbs. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dip tenders in egg, then in Parmesan mixture; place on a rimmed baking sheet. Broil until golden, 2 to 4 minutes per side.

.                 Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spread  tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Then top with chicken, remaining sauce, and finally mozzarella. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions, adding broccoli for final 30 seconds. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water; drain pasta and broccoli, and return to pot. Add oil and remaining Parmesan. Toss, gradually adding some reserved pasta water until pasta is lightly coated. Serve chicken with penne and broccoli.