Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne is a great choice for you!

You can recreate this iconic dish at home with ease using a few simple ingredients.

Start by marinating your chicken in Italian dressing to infuse it with flavor.

Once you’ve cooked the penne pasta to al dente, combine it with Alfredo sauce, Italian cheese blend, and a bit of fresh garlic for an authentic taste.

Adding fresh Roma tomatoes and basil will give the dish a fresh, vibrant touch that perfectly complements the creamy texture.

How to Make Applebee’s Three Cheese 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 (shredded)
• 1 cup White Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Slice the chicken into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large bowl.

Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken cubes, ensuring they are well coated.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2:

Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt.

Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 3:

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is fully cooked and golden brown.

Step 4:

In a separate bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil.

Combine this mixture with the chicken in the pan and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5:

Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan and mix everything together.

Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and white cheddar cheeses until well combined and melted.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinate the Chicken:

Let the chicken marinate longer than 30 minutes if possible; this will allow the flavors to infuse more deeply.

Cheese Choices:

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses you enjoy if you want to give the dish a personal twist.

Fresh Ingredients:

Use fresh basil and tomatoes for an added burst of flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Garlic Aroma:

Be cautious when heating the garlic on high heat as it can burn quickly and create a bitter taste.

Pasta Perfection:

Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a nice texture that complements the smooth cheese sauce.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a warm slice of garlic bread alongside this pasta dish.

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

Make sure it’s hot and fresh out of the oven for the best taste!

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad offers a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.

The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing add a refreshing bite.

Don’t forget the croutons for that extra crunch!

Roasted Veggies

For something a bit different, try serving roasted vegetables.

Roast a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

The slight sweetness from the roasted veggies works wonderfully against the savory chicken penne.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are an unexpected yet tasty option.

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

A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together and makes it visually appealing.

Sweet Potato Fries

If you’re feeling adventurous, sweet potato fries can be a unique addition.

Their subtle sweetness and crunch offer a playful twist.

Sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt and enjoy the contrast they provide with your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Add More Vegetables

You can add some fresh vegetables to this dish!

Try adding a handful of spinach or some chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.

A few mushrooms can make it even more tasty, especially when they are sautéed with the chicken.

Pasta Alternatives

If you’re looking to switch up the pasta, go for it!

Substitute regular penne with whole wheat or gluten-free options if you prefer.

Spaghetti or fettuccine can also make for a fun twist in your dish.

Cheese Choices

You can experiment with different cheese types to suit your preference.

If you like a stronger flavor, try adding a bit of blue cheese or smoked gouda to the mix.

Feel free to adjust the cheese quantities to make it uniquely yours!

How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne

Keep It Airtight

To keep your leftovers fresh and flavorful, place your Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne in an airtight container.

This prevents moisture loss and keeps the flavors locked in, so you can enjoy the pasta for up to 3-4 days.

Remember to remove as much air as possible from the container to avoid any unwanted odors in your fridge.

Chill Quickly

After your meal, transfer the leftovers to the fridge as soon as possible.

This step is crucial in maintaining the freshness and texture of the dish.

Allowing the penne to sit out at room temperature for too long can increase the risk of spoilage and loss of flavor.

Label and Date

It’s helpful to label your container with the date you stored the leftovers.

This practice helps to track how long the dish has been in the fridge, ensuring you consume it while it’s still good.

Just a quick note with a marker on the lid will do the trick!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chicken Preparation

One hitch many face is not marinating the chicken properly.

Give it at least 30 minutes in Italian dressing for a flavor boost!

Skipping this step could leave you with bland chicken, which is not what we’re aiming for.

Sauce Consistency

Be cautious when simmering your cream sauce.

Letting it cook too quickly or too long can make it too thick or even scorch it.

Keep the heat at medium-low and watch it like a hawk to maintain the perfect consistency.

Cheese Integration

Do not rush when melting the cheeses into the sauce.

Add them slowly and stir gently to prevent clumping.

If you’re too eager and dump them all at once, you might end up with a lumpy mess instead of a smooth, creamy sauce.