Grilled chicken penne is a comfort food classic. The combination of simply grilled chicken and perfectly cooked pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, grilled chicken penne is incredibly flexible: you can adapt it to meet nearly any preference.
Looking for a creamy Alfredo? Maybe something with a tomato-based sauce? Or even a vodka sauce? Grilled chicken penne can do it all.
In this article, we’ll explore different recipes, variations, and tips to help you create the most delicious grilled chicken penne possible.
Grilled Chicken Penne Alfredo: A Classic Creamy Delight
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, you can’t go wrong with grilled chicken penne alfredo.
The Appeal of Alfredo Sauce
Alfredo sauce is famous for its rich, creamy texture and taste. It’s traditionally made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The smoky flavor of grilled chicken goes beautifully with the richness of the sauce.
Key Ingredients and Preparation
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Penne pasta
- Grilled chicken breast
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Parsley
To make this dish, cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter and then simmering the heavy cream until it reduces slightly. Grill the chicken separately.
Finally, combine everything with a bit of the pasta water to create a smooth, emulsified sauce that coats the pasta and chicken evenly.
Summer Freshness: Grilled Chicken Penne with Lighter Sauces
When summer hits, it’s time to lighten things up! That means using fresh, seasonal ingredients for a brighter, less heavy version of grilled chicken penne. Think ripe, juicy tomatoes, vibrant spinach, and a squeeze of fresh lemon – all working together to create a refreshing summer meal.
And let’s not forget the grilling! Grilling the chicken not only adds a delicious smoky flavor but also perfectly captures the essence of summer.
Recipe and Preparation
Here’s what you’ll need for a summer-style grilled chicken penne:
- Penne pasta
- Grilled chicken
- Cherry tomatoes
- Spinach
- Garlic
- Lemon
- Olive oil
Here’s how to put it all together:
- Grill the chicken until cooked through.
- Cook the penne pasta (and consider rinsing it after cooking to prevent a “goopy” sauce!).
- Sauté garlic and cherry tomatoes in olive oil.
- Add spinach and lemon juice to the pan.
- Combine the pasta, chicken, and veggie mixture.
- Enjoy!
Penne Vodka with Grilled Chicken: A Modern Twist
Penne alla vodka is a popular pasta dish that’s known for its rich, creamy texture and slightly tangy flavor. The vodka is the secret ingredient, acting as an emulsifier to bind the tomato and cream together. The addition of grilled chicken makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Penne pasta
- Grilled chicken
- Tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Heavy cream
- Vodka
- Parmesan cheese
To make it, you’ll cook the pasta, prepare the vodka sauce by sautéing the ingredients and adding the vodka, grill the chicken, and then combine everything. A crisp Pinot Grigio or a dry Rosé would be delicious alongside this dish.
Looking for variations? You can easily make a vegetarian version by skipping the chicken, or a dairy-free version with coconut cream. For a boost of nutrients, add some spinach or kale.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Grilled Chicken Penne
To really make this grilled chicken penne shine, remember that quality ingredients matter. Fresh, flavorful ingredients always make a difference!
Also, a few simple cooking techniques can really elevate the dish:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the penne al dente.
- Save some of the pasta water; it’s great for adjusting the sauce.
Finally, feel free to play around with the recipe! Try adding red pepper flakes for a little heat, experiment with different cheeses, or sear the chicken to lock in moisture before grilling.
In Conclusion
Grilled chicken penne is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to customize to your liking, whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces, vegetables, and seasonings to create your own signature version of this classic pasta dish.
Now, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a delicious plate of grilled chicken penne. Bon appétit!