applebee’s three cheese chicken penne recipe

The Best applebee’s three cheese chicken penne recipe

Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne is one of those dishes that feels like a little slice of comfort food perfection—simple enough to make at home but just as indulgent as the restaurant version. I love this recipe because it’s got that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness without being too heavy, which makes it a hit with my whole family. My kids, especially my teenage son who’s always picky about what he’ll eat, has never turned down a bowl of this. It’s that kind of dish that feels like a treat but isn’t so heavy that it ruins the meal. For us, it’s a go-to for game nights, family dinners, or even just a lazy Sunday afternoon when we want something warm and satisfying without the fuss of complicated sides.

What really makes this recipe special is how it’s versatile. It’s not just for special occasions—it’s great for everyday meals too. My husband and I often make it on weeknights when we’re craving something hearty but still manageable. The three-cheese blend—sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan—gives it that rich flavor without being too rich, and the chicken penne holds up well to the sauce without being mushy. My kids love the way it’s slightly tangy from the marinara base, and the cheeses melt just right, making every bite feel like a little hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s got a little something for everyone—those who like it creamy, those who prefer it a little tangier, and even the pickiest eaters who just need something familiar and comforting. And the best part? It’s not too heavy, so it doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish afterward. It’s that kind of dish that makes you feel good without overdoing it. Plus, the health benefits are pretty solid too—lean protein from the chicken, whole wheat penne for extra fiber, and a good dose of vitamins from the marinara. It’s not a diet meal, but it’s not the worst thing you can eat either. And honestly, that’s what makes it so great.

Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne (Replica)

4.5 from 1948 votes

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish inspired by Applebee’s, featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a blend of cheeses in a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta Sauce

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (14.5 oz / 400g) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. 2 In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully done (6-7 mins), then set aside.
3. 3 In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 mins.
4. 4 Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 mins. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
5. 5 Return chicken to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Stir in cooked penne pasta and heat through.
6. 6 Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese before serving.

🔧Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or deep pan
• Mixing bowls
• Kitchen shears or knife
• Slotted spoon
• Oven (if baking chicken separately)
• Food processor (optional, for creamier sauce)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

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This Three Cheese Chicken Penne recipe from Applebee’s is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the creamy, cheesy sauce balances out the chicken and pasta perfectly. It’s simple enough to make ahead and reheat, so you don’t have to stress about last-minute cooking, and the dish feels special enough to impress guests while still being comforting and familiar. It’s a winner for any occasion where you want something delicious that won’t leave you feeling like you’ve overcomplicated dinner.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne (Replica)

What is the main ingredient difference between Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne and other similar dishes?

Applebee’s Three Cheese Chicken Penne typically features a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan melted into the sauce, giving it a rich, creamy, and savory flavor profile. Unlike some variations that might include additional cheeses like gouda or feta, this recipe leans on these three classic cheeses for a balanced, comforting taste.

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How does Applebee’s prepare the sauce for the Three Cheese Chicken Penne compared to homemade versions?

At Applebee’s, the sauce is usually made with a light tomato base (sometimes blended or pureed) combined with a creamy sauce (like Alfredo or marinara) and the three cheeses. The restaurant’s method often includes a touch of butter or olive oil for extra richness, and they may use a slightly thicker consistency than some homemade versions to ensure it clings well to the penne. Some locations might also add a splash of heavy cream or a bit of chicken broth for depth.

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Is the Three Cheese Chicken Penne at Applebee’s always served with penne pasta?

While penne is the most common pasta choice for this dish at Applebee’s, they occasionally offer alternatives like fettuccine or rotini in some locations. However, the penne version remains the standard, and the dish is rarely paired with other shapes like spaghetti or macaroni.

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Does Applebee’s use pre-made or homemade sauce for the Three Cheese Chicken Penne?

Applebee’s typically uses pre-made sauce bases that are then customized with their signature blend of cheeses, butter, and other seasonings. While some restaurants might prepare the sauce from scratch, Applebee’s likely relies on a standardized recipe to maintain consistency across their menu. You may notice slight variations in texture or flavor depending on the location or preparation time.

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Can customers request modifications to the Three Cheese Chicken Penne, such as gluten-free pasta or a lighter sauce?

Applebee’s generally offers some flexibility for dietary preferences. Customers can often request gluten-free penne (if available) or ask for a lighter sauce by omitting the heavy cream or reducing the cheese amount. However, they may not always accommodate requests for no cheese or a completely vegan version, as the dish relies on dairy-based ingredients. It’s best to check with the server or ask during ordering.