Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta is a delectable combination of tender grilled chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and a medley of three mouthwatering cheeses. Each bite is a symphony of creamy textures and savory goodness that will leave you craving more. Topped with a vibrant bruschetta mixture, this pasta masterpiece adds a burst of freshness to every forkful.

Whether you’re a fan of comforting pasta dishes or seeking a taste of Italian-American cuisine, Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta will satisfy your cravings and become a favorite on your dining table.

Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Ingredients

These ingredients work together harmoniously to create the signature taste of Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta, combining creamy, cheesy, savory, and fresh elements for a truly satisfying dish.

Grilled Chicken Breast

The grilled chicken breast is the star protein of the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture. It adds a savory flavor that complements the creamy cheese and pasta components.

Asiago Cheese

Asiago cheese contributes a rich and nutty flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce, enhancing the creaminess and adding depth to the overall taste.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan cheese, with its sharp and salty flavor, brings a distinctive tang to the recipe. Italian cuisine commonly uses it to add depth and complexity to creamy dishes like this pasta.

White Cheddar Cheese

White Cheddar cheese adds a creamy and mild taste to the dish. It melts smoothly into the sauce, providing a luscious and smooth texture that complements the other cheeses.

Penne Pasta

Penne pasta, with its tube-like shape, is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce and cheese. It provides a satisfying bite and acts as the base for the dish, soaking up the flavors of the sauce and accompanying ingredients.

Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is a creamy and indulgent component that forms the base of the dish. Its velvety texture and rich flavor provide a luxurious coating for the pasta and chicken, tying all the ingredients together.

Italian Salad Dressing

The Italian salad dressing is used to marinate the chicken, infusing it with tangy and herb-infused flavors. It adds a subtle zing to the chicken, enhancing its taste and ensuring it remains moist and flavorful when grilled.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes play a dual role in this recipe. The diced tomatoes in the bruschetta topping provide a fresh and juicy element, while the tomato-based alfredo sauce adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is used in various stages of the recipe, from sautéing the garlic to mixing it into the bruschetta topping. It adds a smooth and fruity richness, enhancing the flavors and textures of the other ingredients.

Basil

Basil is a fragrant herb incorporated into the bruschetta topping, providing fresh and aromatic flavor. Its bright and slightly peppery notes complement the other ingredients, adding a delightful herbal dimension.

Tips and Tricks for Best Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta

• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor and ensure tenderness.
• When mixed with the sauce, cook the penne pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Use a combination of grated cheeses for the sauce to achieve a well-rounded and balanced flavor.
• Let the sauce simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and creamy consistency.
• Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a fragrant and vibrant touch.
• Preheat the grill or pan properly to ensure the chicken gets those desirable grill marks and stays juicy.
• Experiment with different pasta shapes like farfalle (bowtie), fusilli, or rigatoni to change up the texture and appearance of the dish while still enjoying the creamy cheese sauce and toppings.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ons

These variations and add-ons creatively customize Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta, allowing you to explore different flavor profiles and tailor the dish to suit your preferences.

Mediterranean Twist

Add Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for a Mediterranean flair, complemented with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top.

Spinach and Mushroom Delight

Sauté fresh spinach and mushrooms and mix them into the pasta for an earthy and nutritious twist. For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of dairy-free cream cheese.

Cajun-Inspired Kick

Season the chicken with Cajun spices before grilling for a spicy twist. Toss in some sliced bell peppers and onions for added flavor and color, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Roasted Garlic Infusion

Roast whole garlic cloves and mash them into the Alfredo sauce for a robust garlic flavor. Serve with roasted cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful texture.

Chicken Penne Pasta Casserole

You can turn the dish into a casserole by assembling the layers in a baking dish and baking it for 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Can You Make a Vegan Version For This Recipe?

To customize a vegan version of Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta, make the following changes: replace the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, use a vegan cheese blend or nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavors, prepare a dairy-free cream sauce using cashews or coconut milk, incorporate sautéed vegetables and herbs for added flavor and texture, and serve with a side of vegan garlic bread. These modifications will result in a satisfying vegan dish that retains the creamy, cheesy essence of the original recipe.

How to Store the Leftovers of Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta?

• Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container, ensuring the sauce covers the pasta and chicken well to prevent drying.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
• Store the leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness.
• Consume the leftovers within 3-4 days to ensure food safety and optimal taste.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent the dish from drying.
• Consider freezing the leftovers in portion-sized containers for longer-term storage, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw and reheat as needed, noting that the texture of the pasta may slightly change upon freezing.