Can I use canned diced tomatoes for Grilled Chicken Pene Al Fresco?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various methods for preparing Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco, particularly in relation to using the Deep Covered Baker (DCB) and alternatives for those without a suitable microwave. Participants share personal experiences and suggestions for adapting the recipe.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty fitting the DCB in their microwave and seeks suggestions for alternative cooking methods.
  • Another participant recalls a previous thread that discussed an oven recipe for the dish.
  • Several participants suggest using a 12-inch family skillet or a stock pot as alternatives for cooking the dish.
  • One participant shares their experience of successfully making the dish in the oven with adjusted cooking time.
  • Another participant mentions the possibility of making the dish vegetarian by substituting canned cannellini beans for chicken.
  • One participant notes that canned diced tomatoes lack the flavor of fresh tomatoes but prefers them for their lack of skins.
  • Another participant agrees with the preference for canned diced tomatoes over fresh due to the skin issue.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best method to prepare the dish, with some participants advocating for skillet cooking while others reference the DCB or oven methods. There is no clear consensus on the optimal approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal cooking experiences and adaptations related to the Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco recipe, reflecting a variety of kitchen setups and ingredient preferences.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and home cooks looking for alternative methods to prepare Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco, especially those without access to a suitable microwave.

AJPratt
AJPratt
Silver Member
Messages
6,674
OK... My DCB won't fit in my microwave. HOW do I make this? ANy suggestions?
 
I think I remember a thread that said they figured out a oven recipe for this dish. I would have to go search to find it.
 
One more thought, I would think you could make it in the 12 inch family skillet, or a stock pot.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
Thanks! I will have to try it! Do I cook the noodles first, or just follow the regular directions and just cook it longer?
 
As far as I can tell, you just follow the recipe instructions.
 
Has anyone figured out the minimal dimensions of a microwave needed for the DCB? This would be helpful when talking to hosts that want a DCB recipe.
 
lockhartkitchen said:
has anyone figured out the minimal dimensions of a microwave needed for the dcb? This would be helpful when talking to hosts that want a dcb recipe.
Click to expand...

13x13x7.....
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Thanks so much! I made this last night in the over. I didn't have 40 minutes, so I did it at 40 for 25-30 min. It came out great!
 
BlessedWifeMommy said:
One more thought, I would think you could make it in the 12 inch family skillet, or a stock pot.
Click to expand...

I would really like to try this in the 12in skillet. Maybe tonight I'll make it for DH.
 
I could totally see this being made in skillet. I was thinking that as I was making the Pronto Pasta & Sausage skillet last night. It seemed a similar recipe to this one. I could see it doing well as a skillet dish. Just my thoughts on it.
 
kcmckay said:
I could totally see this being made in skillet. I was thinking that as I was making the Pronto Pasta & Sausage skillet last night. It seemed a similar recipe to this one. I could see it doing well as a skillet dish. Just my thoughts on it.
Click to expand...

My only concern is the tomatoes in the beginning. In the DCB in the Microwave they are almost being steamed, where in the skillet they will be frying...If that makes any sense...
 
Oh, Ann - everyone was great because my suggestion would have been to get a bigger microwave. We don't have central air so 75% of my meals have been made in the DCB in the microwave this summer. (the rest on top of the stove - oven hasn't been on since May!) It's so worth it in the end. Definately think about a bigger microwave!

Keep in touch - Sharon
 
Just a quick tip for this recipe. You can make it vegetarian (and even cheaper than $2/serving) by substituting a can of rinsed cannellini beans (show the can strainer or the chef strainer) for the chicken and water or vegetable broth for the chicken broth. I did this for my Grand Opening show and it was absolutely delicious.
My only question is - it turned out pretty soupy, and I only used 3 cups wine/water total. Has anyone else noticed this?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
Thanks, Sharon! I told Dawn I was going to get a bigger microwav with my next commission check. I looked around at them and they just are too much for me right now. Yes, we're that broke! lol
 
I have made this with canned diced tomatoes too. They don't seem to carry as much flavor as the fresh grape tomatoes, but I did like it better without the skins!
 
baychef said:
I have made this with canned diced tomatoes too. They don't seem to carry as much flavor as the fresh grape tomatoes, but I did like it better without the skins!
Click to expand...

ditto this!!! i'm not much of a tomato skin gal, so using the diced canned tomatos was much better tasting to me!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco?

Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Will using canned diced tomatoes affect the flavor of Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco?

Using canned diced tomatoes may slightly alter the flavor compared to fresh tomatoes, as canned tomatoes can be a bit sweeter. However, they can still provide a delicious base for the dish.

Do I need to adjust the cooking time if I use canned diced tomatoes?

No, you typically do not need to adjust the cooking time when using canned diced tomatoes. They are already cooked during the canning process, so they will heat through quickly.

Are there any specific brands of canned diced tomatoes that work best for this recipe?

While any brand of canned diced tomatoes will work, look for those labeled as "fire-roasted" or "Italian-style" for added flavor that complements the dish well.

Can I use seasoned canned diced tomatoes for Grilled Chicken Penne Al Fresco?

Yes, you can use seasoned canned diced tomatoes, but be mindful of the additional spices and flavors they may bring. You may want to adjust the seasoning in the rest of the dish accordingly to avoid overpowering flavors.

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