Pesto Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon avocado oil
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salt, to taste
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1 lb large chicken breast, cooked and diced
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2 cups asparagus, cut into 1 1/2-in/38-mm pieces
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10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
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⅔ cup pesto
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2 cups penne, measured dry
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parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet. Toss in the asparagus, season with a bit of salt, and sautée until the begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
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Pour on the pesto, pasta, and chicken and stir to combine.
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Toss in the cherry tomatoes and give everything a stir to combine and warm through.
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Top with parsley for garnish.
Nutrition
Nutritional information (9 servings per recipe)
242 calories | 16g protein | 10g fat | 20g carbs | 2g sugar | 2g saturated fat
Price
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Large chicken breast - $4.69
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Asparagus - $4.99
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Cherry tomatoes - $3.89
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Pesto - $3.99
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Penne - $1.50
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Parsley - $1.79
TOTAL PRICE: $20.85
Rating
Price Rating
Total Cost: $20.85
Criteria: Well under the $40 mark, with a great cost-to-serving ratio.
Explanation: At just $2.32 per serving, this recipe is very budget-friendly and provides decent nutrition for a low price.
Rating: 5.0
Ease of Cooking Rating
Directions Summary: Quick, one-pan method with simple steps and minimal prep.
Explanation: Very straightforward. The recipe requires basic chopping and stirring, with minimal cooking equipment and steps, making it beginner-friendly and low on cleanup.
Rating: 5.0
Meal Prep Usefulness Rating
Calories per Serving: 242
Cost per Serving: ~$2.32
Explanation: Excellent for meal prep, as it’s both affordable and light enough to eat multiple times during the week. The pasta holds up well in the fridge, and it’s easy to store in meal prep containers.
Rating: 4.8
Macronutrient Rating
Per Serving: 16g protein | 20g carbs | 10g fat | 2g sugar | 2g saturated fat
Explanation: Solid macros. Moderate protein, good fat from the pesto, and a balanced carb content make it a well-rounded option. The low sugar and saturated fat are also plus points.
Rating: 4.5