Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo

Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo is a delicious pasta dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes, all coated in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce made with Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. It’s a versatile meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Perfectly balanced with a hint of spice from optional sweet chili sauce, this flavorful pasta dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 3/4 lb Penne pasta (boiled according to package instructions with 1/2 tbsp salt)
• 1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 sweet bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 to 3/4 lb button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt for the vegetables
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning for the chicken (e.g., garlic or Mrs. Dash)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (optional, for a spicy kick; Mae Ploy brand recommended)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions, using 1/2 tbsp salt. Drain and toss the cooked pasta with 1 1/2 tbsp butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning (e.g., Mrs. Dash). Grill or sauté the chicken until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a deep skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp butter and a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the bell pepper, mushrooms, and onion until softened, about 8 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked penne pasta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and sliced chicken to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and heat everything thoroughly, ensuring the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese melts completely.
6. Serve: Once the sauce is creamy and all ingredients are well combined, remove from heat and serve!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is simple to make and packed with flavor.
• Flavorful Chicken and Veggies: The blend of bell peppers, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes adds a burst of freshness to the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Rich and comforting, the homemade sauce perfectly coats the pasta for a delicious, satisfying meal.

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Tips

• Chicken Options: You can use either chicken breast or thighs, depending on your preference. Thighs will provide a juicier result.
• Pasta Choices: Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli.
• Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of cream slightly or let the sauce simmer longer to thicken.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Add More Spice: If you love spice, increase the amount of sweet chili sauce or add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken, sauté the veggies, and cook the pasta ahead of time. Simply combine everything and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to 1-2 months. Just note that the cream sauce may slightly change texture upon reheating.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread, a light salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
• For a complete Italian meal, add a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an added touch of flavor.

This Chicken and Vegetable Penne Alfredo is a comforting, creamy pasta dish with savory chicken and fresh vegetables, perfect for any occasion!