Three Cheese Chicken Penne from Applebee's features tender grilled chicken, penne pasta, and a blend of melted Parmesan, mozzarella, and Asiago cheeses, all tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce and garnished with fresh parsley for a rich, comforting Italian-inspired dish.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Large pot
- Colander
- Skillet or grill pan
- Cheese grater
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Baking dish (optional, for broiling/melting cheese)
- Tongs
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Ensure to use fresh, high-quality cheeses such as mozzarella, Parmesan, and Asiago to achieve the authentic creamy and rich flavor profile of this dish. Fresh garlic and heavy cream are essential for creating the signature Alfredo sauce that coats the penne pasta perfectly. Chicken breasts should be tender and evenly grilled to maintain juiciness and complement the cheese blend. Properly cooking your penne pasta al dente and draining it well will help maintain the dish's ideal texture. Your efforts will bring you closer to a delicious Three Cheese Chicken Penne from Applebee's copycat menu experience at home.
Instructions
- Preheat grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over chicken.
- Grill or sear chicken breasts until cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side).
- Remove chicken from pan and let rest.
- Boil large pot of salted water.
- Add penne pasta and cook until al dente.
- Drain pasta using a colander.
- While pasta cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Mince garlic cloves.
- Add minced garlic to melted butter; sauté until fragrant.
- Pour heavy cream into saucepan.
- Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan, Asiago, and mozzarella cheeses.
- Stir constantly until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season Alfredo sauce with salt and black pepper.
- Slice cooked chicken breasts into strips.
- Add cooked penne pasta to saucepan with cheese sauce; mix well.
- Add sliced chicken to pasta and sauce; toss to combine.
- Optionally, transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Plate the pasta, chicken, and sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Substitution
Three Cheese Chicken Penne from Applebee's combines grilled chicken with penne pasta and a creamy Alfredo sauce infused with Parmesan, mozzarella, and Asiago cheeses. You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breast to achieve a juicier texture without altering cooking times significantly. If Asiago cheese is unavailable, Pecorino Romano serves as a flavorful alternative to maintain the dish's savory depth. Use whole milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but expect a slightly thinner consistency. When grilling chicken indoors, a grill pan works well, or you can bake the chicken in the oven to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are patted dry before seasoning to help achieve a better sear and lock in juices. Use plenty of salted water when boiling the penne pasta to prevent it from sticking and enhance its flavor. Constant stirring when adding cheeses to the simmering cream prevents clumping and results in a smooth Alfredo sauce. When combining pasta and sauce, tossing quickly while warm helps your creamy sauce coat every piece perfectly for optimal taste.
Nutritions
Your Three Cheese Chicken Penne provides a hearty source of protein from the grilled chicken breast, supplying approximately 31 grams per serving. The blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses contributes a rich amount of calcium and healthy fats, with roughly 600 calories coming from the creamy Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and butter. Penne pasta offers complex carbohydrates, fueling your body with about 40 grams per serving to sustain energy levels. This nutrient-dense meal balances macronutrients effectively, though it is higher in saturated fat and sodium, so portion control is recommended for those monitoring heart health.
Storage
Store your leftover Three Cheese Chicken Penne in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume the refrigerated dish within three to four days for optimal flavor and safety. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot before serving to restore the creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce and melted cheese blend.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap grilled chicken for sauteed shrimp or crispy bacon to bring different flavors and textures to your dish. Using low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream reduces calories while maintaining creaminess in the Alfredo sauce. Incorporating sauteed mushrooms or steamed broccoli adds extra nutrients and complements the cheesy richness. For an extra indulgent twist, broil the pasta with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for a golden, crunchy topping.
Allergies
The Three Cheese Chicken Penne from Applebee's contains common allergens such as dairy (mozzarella, Parmesan, Asiago cheeses, and heavy cream) and gluten (penne pasta), which may cause reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. The dish also includes garlic and butter, which can trigger allergies or sensitivities in some people. You should check with the restaurant if you have any food allergies or intolerances to ensure it is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Three Cheese Chicken Penne from Applebee's is loved for its creamy blend of cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan cheeses combined with tender grilled chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta. The rich, flavorful sauce creates a comforting and indulgent dining experience that appeals to cheese and pasta lovers alike. You can recreate this classic dish at home to enjoy the authentic taste while customizing ingredients for a healthier or more personalized meal. Making a copycat version allows you to savor this restaurant favorite anytime with fresh, quality ingredients.