Easy Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo Recipe

Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This meal not only satisfies your hunger but also brings comfort to your dining table. Imagine sitting down to a plate filled with colorful bell peppers, fresh broccoli, and juicy chicken smothered in a rich cheese sauce! Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this recipe is straightforward enough to whip up in under an hour. Plus, it offers the flexibility to customize with your favorite vegetables or spice levels.

In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal that can impress anyone. From the first bite to the last, this Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Penne Pasta: Choose whole wheat or regular penne according to your dietary preference for this recipe
• Fresh Broccoli: Cut into bite-sized florets; it adds nutrition and color to the dish
• Bell Peppers: Use red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness; slice them thinly for even cooking
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient creates the rich base of the Alfredo sauce; don’t substitute with low-fat options for best results

For the Sauce:

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged varieties; add more for extra cheesiness
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic provides robust flavor; mince them finely to release their essence
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness of the dish

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Hungry for more? Here’s a perfect to try next!

Delicious Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipe

How to Make Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta but reserve about half a cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Then add broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers; cook until tender (around five minutes).

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Push the vegetables aside in the skillet. Add seasoned chicken breasts (salt & pepper) to the pan. Cook on each side until golden brown (approximately six minutes per side). Once cooked through, remove from heat and slice into strips.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with vegetables. Stir continuously as it heats up. Gradually add Parmesan cheese while mixing until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine It All Together

Add drained penne pasta back into the skillet along with reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Toss everything gently until well combined.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating chicken in garlic and herbs overnight before cooking
• Pasta Water Magic: The reserved pasta water can help adjust sauce consistency without thinning out flavors

Satisfy your cravings with this incredible recipe!

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe

How to Serve Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

This Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken, vegetables, and Alfredo sauce in advance. Cook the chicken and vegetables, then let them cool. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.
• Storing: Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through, which should take about five to seven minutes.

Don’t stop here—check out this equally delicious recipe!

Easy Orange Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe

Suggestions for Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta

One common mistake when making Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo is overcooking the pasta. Pasta should be cooked al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. When you add it to the sauce, it will continue to cook slightly. To prevent mushy pasta, always follow the package instructions for cooking time. Test the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time to ensure it’s just right. Drain it quickly and run under cold water if you’re not adding it to the sauce immediately. This method helps retain its texture and prevents clumping.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients significantly enhances the flavor of your Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo. Opt for fresh vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini rather than frozen versions. Fresh herbs can also elevate your dish; consider adding basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. Additionally, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties that contain anti-caking agents. Fresh ingredients not only improve taste but also add vibrant colors to your dish, making it visually appealing.

Balance Your Sauce

A common error is creating an imbalanced sauce that overwhelms other flavors in Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo. To achieve a harmonious blend, start with a basic Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and cheese. Adjust the creaminess by gradually adding milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but remember that too much salt can overpower the dish. Taste as you go to ensure each ingredient shines through without overshadowing others.

Don’t Skip the Seasoning

Many cooks tend to underestimate the importance of seasoning in their Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo. A bland dish can be disappointing, so be generous with spices and seasonings during cooking. Start with salt and pepper while sautéing your vegetables and chicken. Consider adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra depth of flavor. Once combined with pasta, taste again before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.

Looking for more delicious inspiration? Check out this recipe!

Biscuit Vegetable Pot Pie

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo?

When choosing chicken for Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are an excellent choice due to their tenderness and mild flavor. You may also opt for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat; they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. It’s essential to cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. For added convenience, you can grill or bake the chicken beforehand for a smoky flavor or simply sauté it in a pan with olive oil until golden brown.

Can I make Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo ahead of time! Cook all components separately—pasta, chicken, vegetables—and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything in a large pan over medium heat along with your Alfredo sauce until heated through. However, be cautious not to overcook the pasta during reheating as this will affect its texture.

What vegetables work well in Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo?

A variety of vegetables complement Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo beautifully. Bell peppers add sweetness while zucchini provides crunch. Spinach is an excellent choice for added nutrition without overwhelming flavors. Broccoli florets can introduce a delightful texture contrast too! Feel free to mix seasonal vegetables based on personal preference or availability at your local market; just ensure they are tender yet crisp when cooked.

How do I thicken my Alfredo sauce?

If you find your Alfredo sauce too thin while preparing Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo, there are several methods to thicken it effectively. One simple technique is simmering the sauce on low heat longer than usual; this allows some liquid to evaporate naturally thickening it up. You can also whisk in grated cheese gradually until reaching your desired consistency or mix cornstarch with water (creating a slurry) before incorporating it into the sauce while stirring continuously.

Looking for more delicious inspiration? Check out this recipe!

Shrimp Alfredo Pasta

Conclusion for Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

In summary, crafting delicious Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo involves careful attention to detail throughout each step of preparation. Avoid common mistakes such as overcooking pasta or neglecting seasoning by using fresh ingredients that enhance both flavor and presentation. Remember that balance in your sauce is crucial—aim for creaminess without overpowering other flavors present in this delightful dish. By following these tips and techniques outlined above, you’ll create a mouthwatering meal that impresses family members or guests every time!

Print