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 Breast12 ounces $3.99
-
Kroger 100% Whole Grain Penne Rigate6 ounces dry $1.33
-
Organic Lacinato Kale1 bunch, approximately 8 ounces $3.00
-
Garlic3 cloves $2.49
-
Organic lemon1, yielding 1 teaspoon finely grated zest and 2 tablespoons juice $1.29
-
Fresh oregano1 tablespoon chopped leaves $2.49
-
Olive oil1 1/2 tablespoons
-
Table salt1 tablespoon plus 2 1/2 teaspoons, divided; most is discarded with the pasta water
Instructions
Swipe a step aside or click its number when it’s done.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Divide between two shallow bowls, distributing the chicken and kale evenly, and serve immediately.
Want more detail? See the temperature guide.
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.