Penne al Telefono with Chicken
Penne al Telefono with Chicken is a popular Italian-American pasta dish featuring penne pasta, chicken, and a creamy tomato sauce, often with a hint of spicy heat. The name 'al Telefono' (meaning 'to the telephone') traditionally refers to the stringy, melted mozzarella cheese that resembles telephone wires, though this version incorporates chicken for added protein. It's a hearty, comforting meal commonly found in casual Italian restaurants and home kitchens.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the pasta, with moderate protein from the chicken and fat from the cheese and sauce. A typical serving provides a good source of energy, along with nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and iron, and can range from approximately 500 to 700 calories per serving depending on portion size and ingredients.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Selenium | 35 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 8 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg RAE |
Per 1 plate (350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The playful name 'al Telefono' highlights the Italian culinary tradition of giving dishes whimsical, descriptive titles based on texture or appearance. Nutritionally, it balances indulgence with substance, making it a satisfying option that can be adapted to be lighter by using whole-grain pasta or reducing cheese.
