Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 cups (9 ounces) blanched, slivered almonds
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 2 store-bought, rotisserie chicken breasts, skinned, boned and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup frozen petite peas
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 large lemon, zested
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
In a blender, combine the almonds, chicken stock, olive oil, and garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Pour the mixture into a large skillet and turn the heat on to medium. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the chicken, peas, cream and lemon zest. Cook, stirring frequently until the chicken is heated through, about 4 minutes (mixture will be thick). Season with salt and pepper, to taste
Put the cooked pasta into a serving bowl and add 1/2 cup of the Parmesan. Toss together until the pasta is coated. Add the chicken mixture, the remaining cheese and the basil. Toss the ingredients together, adding the reserved pasta water, as needed, to loosen the sauce. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.
Photo: Penne in Almond Sauce Recipe

















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By cjkandtjk
Norwalk, CT
on October 23, 2011
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Great meal. I think I will add a little heat next time, maybe red pepper or chilli peppers. I will make again, thanks Giada!
By kbrodbe
Chicago
on October 11, 2011
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Delicious! I divided the recipe in two (live alone and it turned out great! Made some slight modifications based on other reviews. Instead of peas I blanched some asparagus. I sauteed half of an onion in the pan before adding the almond mixture and I added a bit of cayenne pepper while the sauce cooked. I also used a three italian cheese mix instead of just parmesan for added flavor. I'm not sure where other people got a gritty texture from the almonds...they added a great flavor a bit of crunch. Will totally make again and for guests! So easy!
By jesklein1_1
Redford, 62
on September 20, 2011
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Super good; I make it all the time for my family! I just exhanged the peas for broccoli because my husband doesn't like peas.
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