Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of Applebee’s iconic 3 Cheese Chicken Penne! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich, velvety sauce loaded with three decadent cheeses. We’ll guide you through recreating this restaurant favorite at home, with tips and variations to make it your own.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup Italian salad dressing
- 3 cups penne pasta
- 15 oz Alfredo sauce
- 8 oz Italian cheese blend, shredded (Mozzarella, Parmesan, Provolone)
- 4 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp basil
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 tbsp olive oil
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Place in a bowl and marinate with the Italian salad dressing for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Bruschetta
Combine chopped tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, and basil in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Pasta
Boil penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Grill or broil the marinated chicken until fully cooked.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cooked pasta into two microwave-safe bowls.
- Pour Alfredo sauce evenly over the pasta in each bowl.
- Layer the bruschetta mixture on top of the Alfredo sauce.
- Add a layer of grilled chicken.
- Top with shredded Italian cheese.
Step 6: Heat and Serve
- Microwave each bowl for about 3 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted. If the bowls were prepared in advance and chilled, heat longer until thoroughly warmed.
- Serve hot with garlic bread on the side.
Note: This recipe can also be prepared in a casserole dish and baked in the oven for a more traditional presentation. If opting for this method, ensure you use high-quality, fresh shredded Italian cheese for the best results.