Chicken Penne alla Vodka

Chicken Penne alla Vodka is a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine creamy tomato sauce infused with a hint of vodka, perfectly enveloping tender chicken and al dente penne pasta. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it visually stunning, while the combination of ingredients creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, meaning you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying good food and great company. Let’s dig into why this dish works so well and what makes it a favorite!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Chicken Penne alla Vodka
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Penne Pasta
• Perfectly Cooked Penne Pasta
• Cooking the Chicken
• Searing the Chicken Breasts
• Making the Vodka Sauce
• Developing the Flavors of Vodka Sauce
• Combining Pasta and Sauce
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

One of the standout features of Chicken Penne alla Vodka is the unforgettable combination of a creamy tomato sauce with just a hint of vodka. This blend creates a rich and indulgent flavor profile that’s both comforting and thrilling. When you sauté the chicken just right, you ensure it stays tender and juicy, enhancing the entire dish’s texture. Plus, using fresh ingredients, especially herbs, elevates the sauce, making it taste incredibly vibrant and fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Penne alla Vodka

You’ll appreciate how quick and easy this dish is to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for date night. Each bite offers a comforting creamy consistency that feels like a warm embrace. Moreover, it’s not just a one-note dish; it pairs beautifully with various sides and beverages, ensuring it can fit any occasion perfectly.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Penne Pasta Noodles
• ½ teaspoon Sea Salt (for pasta water)
• 2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 1 pound)
• Pinch of Salt and Pepper (for seasoning chicken)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or preferred cooking oil)
• 1 medium Onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• ¼ cup Vodka
• 1 (28 ounce can) Crushed Tomatoes
• ½ cup Heavy Cream
• ¼ cup Fresh Oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
• ¼ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
• ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (plus more for serving)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Preparing the Penne Pasta

Perfectly Cooked Penne Pasta

Start by following the package instructions to cook your penne pasta. Don’t forget to add sea salt to the boiling water; it adds that nice flavor to the pasta. After cooking it to perfection, drain the pasta but reserve about ½ cup of the cooking liquid. This is a magic ingredient you will need later! Rinse the pasta briefly with cool water to stop it from cooking further, then set it aside.

Cooking the Chicken

Searing the Chicken Breasts

For the chicken, take those boneless skinless breasts and gently flatten them to about ½” thickness using a meat tenderizer. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. Season both sides of the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for around 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked and golden brown. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Cover it with foil and let it rest for a few minutes. This step keeps the juices locked in!

Making the Vodka Sauce

Developing the Flavors of Vodka Sauce

With the chicken resting, let’s whip up the vodka sauce! Keep the skillet heated on medium-high; you may want to add a splash of olive oil if it seems dry. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onion becomes tender and just slightly browned. Now pour in the vodka, and make sure to gently scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze it. That’s where the flavors are! Then stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, and crushed red pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally as it thickens.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

It’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked penne to the vodka sauce, stirring it all to combine while the penne heats through. If you find the sauce too thick, this is where your reserved pasta water comes in handy. Mix in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully into the sauce as you stir. Don’t forget to slice your rested chicken into ½” thick pieces and gently fold them into the vodka sauce along with the penne. Season the whole mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

To make the dish even more appealing, consider garnishing with fresh oregano or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve it warm alongside some garlic bread or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels like a gourmet experience!

Tips for Success

Keep an eye on that chicken—making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures safety and that juicy flavor. If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper for an extra kick. It’s all about personalizing this dish to your taste!

Variations

If you want to shake things up, consider swapping out the chicken for shrimp. Alternatively, adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can add a unique twist. For a healthier option, try using whole wheat or gluten-free penne.

Storage Tips

If you end up with leftovers (which can be hard to believe), allow the Chicken Penne alla Vodka to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, making it easy to reheat and enjoy again.

Pairing Ideas

To enhance your meal, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine; both elevate the flavors of the dish. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad also nicely balances out the richness of the pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne works best, other shapes like rigatoni or fettuccine can work nicely too.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce beforehand and cook the pasta just before serving for optimal texture.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Penne alla Vodka?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container and it’ll keep for up to 2 months.

4. What kind of vodka should I use?
A mid-range vodka is ideal; there’s no need to splurge on top-shelf vodka for cooking.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and omit the chicken broth.

This Chicken Penne alla Vodka recipe brings the flavors of an Italian restaurant right into your kitchen, perfect for any occasion. The harmonious blend of creamy tomato sauce with tender chicken and al dente penne pasta is sure to win over anyone at the table. Enjoy this dish with loved ones, making lasting memories over a shared meal.

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Butter Stuffed Dates
• Grilled Pineapple Chicken
• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Butter Salmon

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