Imagine a dish that combines the delicate sweetness of tender leeks, perfectly shredded chicken, and al dente penne pasta in a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Italian cuisine. This isn't just another pasta recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this irresistible, restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by thoroughly washing and slicing leeks into thin half-moon shapes. Cut away the dark green tops and root ends, using only the white and light green portions.
- Cook chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked through, internal temperature reaching 165°F. Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks into bite-sized pieces.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet with leeks, allowing it to simmer and reduce for 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add shredded chicken to the leek mixture, stirring to combine and heat through for 2 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with leeks and chicken. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh thyme leaves, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Leek Preparation: Always clean leeks thoroughly by slicing and soaking in cold water. The layers can trap dirt, so rinse carefully to ensure a clean, grit-free result.
- Chicken Cooking Hack: For extra flavor, consider seasoning your chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary before cooking. A meat thermometer is crucial to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
- Pasta Perfection: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients bind together beautifully.
- Flavor Boosting: For an extra layer of richness, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the leeks or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be partially prepared in advance. Cook chicken and slice leeks earlier in the day to streamline your cooking process.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
