Applebee’s Chicken Penne Recipe

When you’re craving a dish that’s big on flavor, Applebee’s chicken penne recipe really brings it!

The secret to this delicious dish lies in its three-cheese blend – asiago, parmesan, and white cheddar, which melt beautifully into a creamy sauce.

Marinating the chicken in Italian dressing is a simple yet effective way to infuse it with incredible taste and tenderness.

While the penne cooks, you’ll mix chopped tomatoes, basil, and garlic to add a fresh, vibrant layer to the meal.

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Penne Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Chicken Breast
• 1 cup Italian Dressing
• 12 oz. Penne Pasta
• 2 cups Tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 tsp Basil (chopped)
• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1 cup Alfredo Sauce
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Marinate the chicken.

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes.

Pour in the Italian dressing and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2:

Prepare the bruschetta.

Combine chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil in a bowl and set aside.

Step 3:

Cook the pasta.

Boil the penne until al dente, following package instructions, then drain.

Step 4:

Cook the chicken.

In a skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken cubes and cook until they are cooked through.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Assemble and finish the dish.

Mix the cooked penne, cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, and mozzarella into the skillet.

Top with parmesan and the bruschetta mixture.

Serve while hot.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinating Time

You can marinate the chicken overnight instead of the minimum 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

This will make a noticeable difference in taste.

Cooking the Pasta

Make sure to cook the penne until it’s just al dente.

This helps the pasta maintain its texture when stirred with the sauce and chicken.

Cheese Selection

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends.

Adding a bit of gouda can provide a creamy and slightly sweet kick.

Saucy Tips

If the dish seems too dry, you can add a splash of pasta water to give it additional moisture and a silkier texture.

Garnishing

For a final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top before serving.

It adds both flavor and a pop of color to your dish.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Penne Recipe

You might be wondering what pairs well with the Applebee’s Chicken Penne Recipe, and you have a lot of delicious options!

Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread is a classic choice.

The crispy crust and buttery garlic flavor complement the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.

You can easily make it at home or grab some from your favorite bakery.

Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is another traditional partner for chicken penne.

The crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Adding a few croutons for an extra crunch is always a great idea.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For something a bit unexpected, try serving roasted Brussels sprouts.

Their slightly bitter taste becomes sweet when roasted, and they pair beautifully with the cheesy pasta.

Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until they’re golden and crispy.

Sweet Potato Fries

Another fun option is sweet potato fries.

Their natural sweetness complements the rich flavors in the chicken penne dish.

Bake them in the oven and sprinkle with a little sea salt. So good!

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers offer a light and refreshing side.

Layer mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves on skewers.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor that pairs nicely with the creamy pasta.

Variations and Substitutions

Change Up the Cheese

You can easily experiment with the types of cheese in this dish to suit your taste preferences.

Try swapping out asiago for gouda if you enjoy a smokier flavor in your dishes.

Vegetables

Adding fresh vegetables can enhance the dish both nutritionally and visually, so consider tossing in some spinach or mushrooms.

Do you like some extra crunch? Zucchini or bell peppers are delicious when added to the mix!

Sauces and Cream

If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of cornstarch slurry.

This substitution maintains the sauce’s creamy texture while reducing fat content.

Pasta Variations

Don’t hesitate to swap out penne if you’d prefer a different type of pasta!

Rotini or bow-tie pasta can catch more sauce, bringing more zest per bite.

Chicken Marinade

The marinated chicken can be intensified with lemon juice or a tablespoon of soy sauce combined with the Italian dressing for a tangy and savory flavor.

Adapting these elements adds your own twist!

How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Chicken Penne Recipe

Storing leftovers from your Applebee’s Chicken Penne can be a simple process if you follow a few easy steps.

The first thing you want to do is let your penne cool down to room temperature.

Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the cooled pasta into airtight containers.

This helps keep it fresh and prevents any moisture from entering, which could alter the texture.

When filling the container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for any expansion if freezing.

Keep Portions Manageable

Divide the leftover dish into single-serving portions.

This makes it easier for you to reheat only what you plan to eat later on.

Label the containers with the date so you remember when you stored them.

Refrigerate or Freeze

For short-term storage, place these containers in the fridge where they will last about three to four days.

If you want to keep your chicken penne longer, put it in the freezer.

Frozen leftovers can last up to two months when properly stored.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chicken Preparation

One common mistake when making Applebee’s Chicken Penne is not properly marinading your chicken beforehand, which can result in a lack of flavor in the final dish.

Marinading for at least 30 minutes in Italian dressing helps to infuse the chicken with robust flavors and tenderizes it.

Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference!

Cheese Consistency

Avoid using pre-shredded cheese as it often contains additives that can prevent the sauce from being as creamy and smooth as it should be.

Grate your own asiago, parmesan, and white cheddar for the best results.

It may take a little extra time, but the texture improvement is well worth it.

Overcooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken at too high a temperature or for too long can lead to dry, tough pieces that aren’t enjoyable to eat.

Cook the chicken on medium heat and monitor it closely.

Remove it from the pan as soon as it’s cooked through to maintain moisture and tenderness.