Lunch: Two-Cheese Penne with Chicken and Spinach Recipe | Myrecipes

Recipe by Mary Drennen To balance out the meal, serve this rich and saucy pasta alongside a crisp romaine salad with bright acidic dressing.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Spinach

Health benefits of Two-Cheese Penne with Chicken and Spinach Recipe | Myrecipes

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked quick-cooking penne (such as Ronzoni)
Cooking spray
12 ounces skinless, boneless chicken cutlets
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
7 ounces fresh spinach
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 ounces fresh pecorino Romano cheese, shredded (about 1/2 cup)
2 ounces 1/3-less-fat cream cheese (about 1/4 cup)

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain in a colander over a bowl, reserving 1/4 cup pasta cooking water.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or just until done. Remove chicken from pan; thinly slice across grain.
Return pan to medium heat. Add oil; swirl to coat. Add spinach, red pepper, and garlic; cook 3 minutes or until spinach wilts. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta cooking water, chicken, lemon juice, and cheeses to pan; toss to coat. Cook 1 minute or until cheeses melt. Serve immediately.

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