Penne Carrabba from Carrabba's Italian Grill features al dente penne pasta tossed in a creamy tomato basil sauce with grilled chicken, sauteed mushrooms, and fresh Parmesan, garnished with vibrant basil leaves for a rich, savory Italian masterpiece.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Ladle
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 oz/800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking and season them with salt and black pepper before grilling. Use cremini or button mushrooms for their earthy flavor, which complements the creamy tomato basil sauce perfectly. Fresh garlic and crushed tomatoes are essential for the sauce's rich taste and texture, while heavy cream and unsalted butter provide the smooth, velvety consistency that defines Penne Carrabba. Grated Parmesan cheese should be finely grated to melt seamlessly into the sauce, and fresh basil leaves must be added at the end for vibrant color and aroma. When preparing Penne Carrabba from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu, balance these ingredients carefully to replicate the authentic, savory Italian flavors.
Instructions
- Fill large pot with water, bring to boil.
- Season boiling water with salt.
- Cook penne pasta until al dente, drain with colander, set aside.
- While pasta cooks, slice chicken breasts thinly.
- Season chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken; cook until cooked through and golden, remove and set aside.
- Clean and slice mushrooms.
- In same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, sauté mushrooms until golden.
- Mince garlic; add to skillet, sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes to skillet, stir to combine.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add butter and red pepper flakes (optional), stir to melt and combine.
- Reduce heat, let sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Add chicken back to skillet; stir to coat in sauce.
- Add cooked penne pasta; toss everything together using tongs.
- Slice or chiffonade fresh basil leaves; stir most into pasta, reserving some for garnish.
- Taste, adjust salt/pepper as needed.
- Serve pasta in bowls; garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
Substitution
Penne Carrabba from Carrabba's Italian Grill copycat menu offers a delicious blend of al dente penne pasta in a creamy tomato basil sauce with grilled chicken and sauteed mushrooms. You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to achieve a similar creamy consistency while reducing fat content. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil or Italian seasoning can be used, though adding fresh basil at the end enhances the dish's aroma and flavor. For a vegetarian variation, omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or roasted vegetables to maintain heartiness. Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese is convenient, but freshly grated Parmesan will provide a richer taste and better melting texture.
Tips
Ensure you salt the boiling water generously before cooking the penne to enhance the pasta's flavor. When sauteing chicken and mushrooms, avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a nice golden sear without steaming the ingredients. Stir the grated Parmesan into the hot sauce gradually for a smooth, creamy texture without clumping. Toss your pasta and sauce thoroughly with tongs to coat each piece evenly, ensuring the rich tomato basil sauce envelops every bite for your perfect Penne Carrabba experience.
Nutritions
Penne Carrabba from Carrabba's Italian Grill provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, featuring protein from grilled chicken and Parmesan cheese, healthy fats from olive oil and butter, and carbohydrates from al dente penne pasta. The creamy tomato basil sauce adds vitamins A and C from fresh basil and tomatoes, while mushrooms contribute fiber and B vitamins. One serving typically contains around 700-800 calories, making it a hearty meal option. Your meal benefits from a good dose of calcium thanks to the Parmesan, supporting bone health.
Storage
Store your Penne Carrabba in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to preserve the creamy tomato basil sauce and tender grilled chicken. For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, ensuring you leave room for expansion. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce's smooth texture and flavor balance.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute grilled shrimp for chicken to add a light, seafood flavor pairing well with the creamy tomato basil sauce. Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes to intensify the sauce's tangy sweetness, or swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter texture. You can roast the mushrooms in the oven instead of sauteing for a deeper, caramelized taste. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to elevate the sauce's aroma, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Allergies
Penne Carrabba contains dairy ingredients such as heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, which may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins or lactose. The dish also includes mushrooms and garlic, potential allergens for some people with specific food sensitivities. If you have allergies, inform the restaurant to adjust ingredients or select safer alternatives for your meal.
Why this recipe?
Penne Carrabba from Carrabba's Italian Grill is celebrated for its rich blend of spicy marinara sauce, grilled chicken, and penne pasta, creating a harmonious balance of bold and comforting flavors. The dish's signature kick comes from crushed red pepper, paired with a creamy tomato sauce that enhances every bite. You'll appreciate its satisfying texture and authentic Italian taste, making it a beloved favorite among diners. Trying to recreate this at home offers a rewarding culinary experience that captures the essence of Carrabba's quality and flavor.