Chicken Alfredo Penne is a popular pasta dish that combines the creamy richness of alfredo sauce with tender slices of chicken and tender penne pasta. Originating in Italy, this dish has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, offering a decadent and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The dish is made by tossing cooked penne pasta in a rich and creamy sauce made from parmesan cheese, butter, and heavy cream, and topped with succulent grilled or sauteed chicken breast. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner idea or just a comforting bowl of pasta, Chicken Alfredo Penne is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Here is a simple recipe for Chicken Alfredo Penne:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season chicken slices with salt and pepper, then cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low and slowly whisk in parmesan cheese and butter until fully incorporated.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Serve chicken alfredo penne on individual plates and top with sliced chicken and chopped parsley, if desired.
Here are a few variations and tips for this recipe:
Add vegetables:
You can add vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the dish for additional nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables in the same skillet as the chicken and add them to the pasta and sauce.
Spice it up:
Add red pepper flakes or black pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Make it lighter:
To make a lighter version of chicken alfredo penne, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese and butter. You can also use whole-grain pasta for a healthier option.
Mix it up:
Try using different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine, for a change of pace.
Store leftovers:
Chicken Alfredo Penne can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot and creamy.
Enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Penne and have fun experimenting with different variations!
