NEW Diabetic Friendly Chicken Penne Pasta Feast guilt-free

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NEW Diabetic Friendly Chicken Penne Pasta Feast guilt-free

Author: thrivehealthyrecipes.com Cooking Method: Courses: ,
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    Cook the whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Chicken
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce
    • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
    • Stir in the lemon juice, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Spinach:
    • Add the cooked penne pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet.
    • Add the fresh spinach and toss everything together until the spinach wilts and the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  5. Finish with Parmesan:

    Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary.

  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
Calories 350kcal
Calories from Fat 80kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 50mg17%
Sodium 200mg9%
Potassium 300mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 8g32%
Sugars 2g
Protein 25g50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat penne with other whole grain pasta varieties like spaghetti, fusilli, or rotini. Keep in mind that whole grain options are preferable for a diabetic-friendly diet due to their higher fiber content, which helps in blood sugar management.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. To add protein, consider incorporating legumes like chickpeas or cannellini beans.

How can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or chicken broth if the pasta seems dry.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative. Thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the skillet. Adjust the amount as frozen spinach is more compact than fresh.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free option?

For a dairy-free alternative, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese substitute. Be mindful of the added ingredients in substitutes to ensure they align with diabetic dietary needs.

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