Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

6 servings
This copycat Applebee's three cheese chicken penne is our favorite pasta recipe. It's super cheesy, creamy, fresh, and delicious. We season our chicken with Italian-inspired herbs, make our own cheesy cream sauce, and top the pasta with a homemade bruschetta that's super delicious and easy to make. This may be a copycat recipe, but it's better than the real thing.

Ingredients

  • cherry or grape tomatoes

    diced

    8 oz
  • olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • balsamic vinegar
    2 tsp
  • basil leaves

    chopped or cut into ribbons

    ¼ c
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • garlic

    minced

    4 cloves
  • penne pasta
    16 oz
  • chicken breasts

    cut into 1-inch pieces

    1 ½ lb
  • olive oil

    divided

    2 tbsp
  • italian seasoning
    1 tbsp
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • paprika
    1 tsp
  • red pepper flakes
    ¼ tsp
  • heavy whipping cream
    2 c
  • asiago cheese

    grated

    1 c
  • white cheddar cheese

    grated

    1 c
  • parmesan cheese

    grated

    ½ c
  • chicken broth
    ½ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Add the bruschetta ingredients to a small mixing bowl and mix to combine. Set aside.

  2. 2

    Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain it and set aside.

  3. 3

    Add chicken, 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes to a large mixing bowl. Mix until everything is combined and the chicken is evenly coated.

  4. 4

    Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through, about 8 minutes. The internal temperature should be 165°F. Once the chicken has finished cooking, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

  5. 5

    Turn the heat to medium-low. In the same pan you cooked the chicken in, add the cream. Bring the cream to a simmer, about 3 minutes, then add the asiago, parmesan, white cheddar, and a dash of pepper. Let the cheese melt, then add the chicken broth. Let it simmer and thicken for 5-7 minutes, until it reaches your desired consistency.

  6. 6

    Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to combine. Add it to a serving bowl, then top with the chicken. Drain most of the liquid off of the bruschetta, then add the tomatoes to the top of the pasta. Serve immediately while the sauce is still super soupy and delicious. Top with extra cheese.

Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe

30 min6 servings750 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving that comforting, cheesy pasta dish from Applebee's but want to enjoy it in the comfort of your own kitchen? This Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne recipe delivers all the familiar flavors and creamy goodness you love, made fresh from scratch. It's an inviting dinner that’s surprisingly quick to prepare, perfect for any weeknight.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this recipe truly special is its dedication to homemade flavor, elevating it beyond typical takeout. We start with tender chicken breasts, generously seasoned with Italian-inspired herbs for a deep, savory foundation. The heart of the dish is a rich, luscious cream sauce featuring a trio of Asiago, white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. But the real star is the vibrant, homemade bruschetta, combining fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a hint of balsamic, which adds a bright, tangy counterpoint that makes this version even better than the restaurant original.

What to Expect

Prepare for a truly satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and fresh. You'll be greeted by perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a velvety, cheesy sauce that clings to every noodle. Each bite offers juicy, flavorful chicken, complemented by the sharp, salty notes of the three distinct cheeses. The fresh bruschetta topping bursts with garden-fresh flavor, cutting through the richness of the pasta and offering a delightful textural contrast. This dish is designed to be a delightful experience, full of robust Italian-inspired tastes that come together harmoniously.

Customization & Variations

While delicious as written, you can easily adapt this three cheese chicken penne to your preferences. For a protein swap, consider using shrimp or even plant-based chicken alternatives if desired. If fresh basil isn't on hand for the bruschetta, a sprinkle of fresh parsley could offer a milder, herbaceous note. You can also adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the red pepper flakes in the chicken seasoning to suit your palate.

Serving & Context

This Copycat Applebee's Three Cheese Chicken Penne is a fantastic choice for a hearty family dinner or a comforting meal shared with friends. Its blend of fresh and rich flavors makes it particularly appealing during the spring and summer months. Serve it simply on its own, or with a light green salad and some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that incredible sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions