Penne pasta with chicken

Penne pasta with chicken

Dinner

Item Rating: 74/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 400 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 10.0 grams of fat, and 60.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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377.4
calories
23.6
protein
56.6
carbohydrates
9.4
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)
Calories
377.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 9.4 g 12%
Saturated Fat 2.8 g 14%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 47.2 mg 15%
Sodium 471.7 mg 20%
Total Carbohydrates 56.6 g 20%
Dietary Fiber 2.8 g 10%
Sugars 1.9 g
protein 23.6 g 47%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 37.7 mg 2%
Iron 1.9 mg 10%
Potassium 283.0 mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

55.8%
23.3%
20.9%
Fat: 84 cal (20.9%)
Protein: 94 cal (23.3%)
Carbs: 226 cal (55.8%)

About Penne pasta with chicken

Penne pasta with chicken is a hearty dish originating from Italian cuisine, featuring tubular pasta and lean protein from chicken. Its versatile flavor profile allows it to pair with various sauces, such as marinara, pesto, or cream-based sauces. Penne is typically made with durum wheat semolina, providing a source of complex carbohydrates essential for energy. Chicken adds high-quality protein, vital for muscle repair and maintenance. Additionally, this dish may include vegetables and herbs to enhance its nutritional value. A standard serving of penne pasta with chicken may contain approximately 500-700 calories, with a balanced ratio of carbohydrates, protein, and fats depending on the specific preparation method and ingredients used.

Health Benefits

  • Provides high-quality protein from chicken for muscle repair (approximately 25-30g per serving).
  • Complex carbohydrates from penne pasta support sustained energy levels.
  • Chicken is rich in B vitamins, such as B3 (niacin), which supports metabolic health.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat, gluten, potential dairy if cream-based sauces are used
Suitable for: General diets, high-protein diets (with moderation), non-vegetarian diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, vegetarian diets, vegan diets

Selection and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave before consuming.

Common Questions About Penne pasta with chicken Nutrition

Is Penne Pasta with Chicken high in protein?

Penne Pasta with Chicken provides a moderate amount of protein, primarily due to the chicken. A typical serving of grilled chicken (100g) can add about 25g of protein, while the pasta itself contributes around 7g of protein per cup. The total protein content depends on the portion sizes, but it can be a good source for those looking to increase protein intake.

Can I eat Penne Pasta with Chicken on a low-carb or keto diet?

Penne Pasta with Chicken is generally not suited for a keto diet because traditional pasta is high in carbohydrates, containing around 43g of carbs per cooked cup. However, substituting regular penne with low-carb or keto-friendly pasta alternatives (such as zucchini noodles or almond flour-based pasta) can make it compatible with these diets while keeping the protein intact from the chicken.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating Penne Pasta with Chicken?

Penne Pasta with Chicken provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients like B vitamins (from the pasta) and iron (from the chicken). However, it can be high in calories and refined carbs if made with traditional white pasta. To make it healthier, use whole-grain penne for added fiber and pair it with vegetables to increase nutrient density.

What is the recommended serving size for Penne Pasta with Chicken?

A recommended portion size is about 1 cup of cooked pasta (approximately 200-220 calories) and 3-4 ounces (85-100g) of chicken, which would provide a balanced meal of protein and carbohydrates while keeping the calorie count reasonable. Adjust portion sizes based on individual dietary needs and activity levels.

How does Penne Pasta with Chicken compare to other pasta dishes?

Compared to vegetarian pasta dishes, Penne Pasta with Chicken offers more protein due to the inclusion of chicken. However, it is typically higher in calories compared to vegetable-based pasta dishes. For a healthier comparison, use whole-grain pasta and add vegetables to Penne Pasta with Chicken, making it nutritionally richer than traditional creamy or cheese-heavy pasta recipes.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.