Lemony Chicken & Kale Penne

Golden chicken, tender kale, and nutty whole-grain penne mingle in a bright lemon-garlic sauce with fresh oregano.

  • Total time: 35 min
  • Servings: 2 servings
  • Estimated total cost: $9
  • Calories per serving: 640 cal
  • Stovetop

Ingredients

  • Simple Truth Natural Boneless Skinless Fresh Chicken Breast
    12 ounces $3.99
  • Kroger 100% Whole Grain Penne Rigate
    6 ounces dry $1.33
  • Organic Lacinato Kale
    1 bunch, approximately 8 ounces $3.00
  • Garlic
    3 cloves $2.49
  • Organic lemon
    1, yielding 1 teaspoon finely grated zest and 2 tablespoons juice $1.29
  • Fresh oregano
    1 tablespoon chopped leaves $2.49
  • Olive oil
    1 1/2 tablespoons
  • Table salt
    1 tablespoon plus 2 1/2 teaspoons, divided; most is discarded with the pasta water

Instructions

  1. Strip the tough stems from 1 bunch lacinato kale, approximately 8 ounces, and slice the leaves into thin ribbons. Rinse and drain. Thinly slice 3 garlic cloves. Chop 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves. Zest and juice 1 organic lemon, measuring out 1 teaspoon zest and 2 tablespoons juice.

  2. On a separate cutting board, slice 12 ounces chicken breast across the grain into strips about 1/2 inch thick. Season evenly with 3/4 teaspoon table salt and let stand while the pasta water heats. Wash your hands and clean the board.

  3. Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a medium pot. Add 1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons table salt, then 6 ounces dry whole-grain penne. Cook according to the package timing until al dente, stirring occasionally. Before draining, reserve 1 cup pasta water.

  4. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and the thickest strips reach 165°F. Transfer to a clean plate and rest for at least 3 minutes while you cook the kale.

  5. Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and the sliced garlic; stir for 30 seconds. Add the prepared kale, 1/4 teaspoon table salt, and 1/4 cup plain water. Cover and cook for 4 minutes, then uncover and stir for 1–2 minutes, until tender and bright green.

  6. Add the following to the skillet:

    • The drained penne
    • The cooked chicken and its collected juices
    • The prepared oregano
    • The measured lemon zest
    • The measured lemon juice
    • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

    Toss over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until lightly glossy. If needed, add more reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, just until the pasta is lightly coated.

  7. Divide between two shallow bowls, distributing the chicken and kale evenly, and serve immediately.

Health: Whole-grain penne adds fiber and a nuttier flavor than regular pasta, with a slightly firmer bite.

Drink pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemon, herbs, and earthy kale.