Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi Recipe

Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi is a gratifying dish that’s simple enough to make at home, capturing the flavors of the popular restaurant favorite!

You start with marinated chicken to increase juicy tenderness; grilling or searing it until fully cooked is key.

Toss the spiral cavatappi pasta with a blend of cheeses for that irresistible creamy texture.

One thing I love about this dish is its versatility in adapting to your taste!

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts
• 2 cups Cavatappi Pasta
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• 1/4 cup Italian Dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Start by marinating the chicken.

Combine the chicken breasts with the Italian dressing in a sealed container and refrigerate for one to two hours.

Step 2:

Boil the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions.

Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 3:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add the marinated chicken breasts.

Sear each side for about 5 minutes until fully cooked.

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4:

Melt butter in a large saucepan.

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Pour in the heavy cream.

Bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently.

Step 5:

Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce.

Slice the chicken and serve it atop the pasta.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinate for Flavor

Letting your chicken sit in the dressing for up to two hours can add a ton of flavor to your dish.

Don’t skip this step if you want tender and tasty chicken!

Use Fresh Cheese

Grating your own Parmesan and mozzarella can enhance the melted texture and flavor.

It’s worth the extra effort for that fresh taste.

Cook Pasta Al Dente

Slightly undercooking your pasta helps it stay firm when simmering in the sauce.

This prevents it from becoming mushy and helps it absorb the sauce nicely.

Rest the Chicken

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing.

This locks in the juices and makes your chicken even more succulent and delicious.

Taste the Sauce

Before combining everything, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired.

A little extra salt or pepper might be needed depending on your preference.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi

Green Salad

A simple green salad will add freshness to your plate and balance the richness of the pasta dish.

Consider using a mix of lettuce, arugula, or spinach with sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.

A light lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing will enhance these flavors perfectly.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic pairing with pasta and will never go out of style.

You can create your own by spreading garlic butter on a sliced baguette and toasting it in the oven.

Trust me, that crispy, garlicky goodness will have everyone reaching for more.

Roasted Vegetables

Adding roasted vegetables as a side dish is a fun way to introduce more nutrients to your meal.

Choose from bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots and roast them with a drizzle of olive oil and seasoning.

Roasting brings out a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements your main course wonderfully.

Caprese Skewers

For something a bit different, caprese skewers are a great choice.

Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers.

Drizzle them with balsamic glaze just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is another unique option that pairs well with the creamy pasta.

Simply grill asparagus spears with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

This side is quick to prepare and brings a great texture contrast to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Cheeses

You can try swapping the traditional cheese blend with gouda or fontina for a twist on the original.

These cheeses melt beautifully and add a unique flavor profile to the dish.

Protein Choices

If you want to switch it up, try replacing chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a different experience.

Just marinate them similarly to maintain the juicy texture and tasty flavor.

Pasta Options

Feel free to substitute cavatappi with any other pasta shape like penne or fusilli.

Different pasta shapes can absorb sauces differently, offering a varied texture.

Healthier Options

Using low-fat cream and cheese will reduce the calorie content without sacrificing too much taste.

For gluten-free needs, there are many gluten-free pasta alternatives available in most stores.

These tweaks ensure that you can enjoy the dish while meeting your dietary preferences.

How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi

When you’ve cooked a big batch of Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi, storing leftovers properly keeps them fresh and tasty.

Here’s how to do it in just a few simple steps!

Airtight Containers

Always use airtight containers to store your leftover chicken cavatappi.

This prevents moisture loss and keeps your dish from absorbing any unpleasant odors from the fridge.

Choose containers that fit the portion size to reduce air space and maintain flavor.

Refrigeration

After placing your cavatappi in the containers, refrigerate immediately to ensure freshness.

Storing the leftovers in the fridge keeps them safe and enjoyable for up to three to four days.

This method also helps maintain the integrity of the sauce and pasta.

Label and Date

It’s always a good practice to label and date your containers.

Knowing exactly when you stored them helps you keep track of freshness.

Simply use a piece of tape and a marker to note the storage date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating the Chicken Too Briefly

Marinating the chicken is crucial to infuse it with flavor.

If you skip this step or rush it, your chicken won’t have that tasty zing you’re aiming for.

I recommend giving it at least 30 minutes in Italian dressing to make it shine.

Cooking Chicken Incorrectly

Another pitfall is overcooking or undercooking the chicken.

The chicken should be fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F.

Let it rest for five minutes after cooking to lock in the juices before slicing.

Sauce Consistency Issues

The sauce can make or break this dish, so pay close attention to its consistency.

Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling to prevent separation.

Stirring constantly helps you get that perfect velvety texture without lumps.