Who doesn’t love the penne alla vodka chicken recipe? It’s even better when it’s saucy, slightly spicy, and incredibly comforting. That’s precisely where penne alla vodka with chicken comes in.
It seems fancy at first glance, but believe me, you can nail this recipe even if you’re a kitchen newbie. Today, I’m walking you through the whole process!
[toc]
Penne alla Vodka Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Getting the right ingredients is half the battle with any recipe. Here’s what we’ll need for our delicious penne alla vodka adventure:
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Pasta | Onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes for flavor base |
| Chicken | Boneless, skinless breasts; pound thin is best |
| Vodka | Penne is classic, but rigatoni, etc. also work |
| Tomatoes | Crushed is ideal, diced is a possible substitute |
| Cream | Heavy cream = rich, half-and-half is lighter |
| Aromatics | Onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes for the flavor base |
| Cheese | Freshly grated Parmesan is a must! |
| Equipment | Large pot, skillet/Dutch oven, basic tools |
Penne alla Vodka Chicken Recipe Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s break down the cooking process into easy-to-follow steps:
Cook the pasta
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a roaring boil.
- Add penne, cooking until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Drain pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.
Prepare the chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can pound them thin or cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Build the sauce base
- In the same skillet, sauté onions until softened, then add garlic and red pepper flakes.
- Deglaze the pan with vodka! Scrape up those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Enrich the sauce
- Stir in heavy cream, bringing the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs you fancy (basil and oregano are fantastic!)
- Add cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese. You want the cheese to melt beautifully into the sauce.
- Give it a taste. Adjust any seasoning that might need a final boost.
Penne Alla Vodka Chicken Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Pasta water is your secret weapon: Adding a bit to the sauce helps it thicken and cling to the pasta.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: It’ll become tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make it your own: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in fresh basil for extra flavor.
Penne alla Vodka Chicken Recipe Nutritional Information
While delicious, it’s good to know what’s in our food. A typical serving of penne alla vodka with chicken has approximately the following:
| Nutrition Fact | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600-700 |
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Protein | 35-45g |
| Carbohydrates | 50-60g |
Please note: Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.
The History of Penne alla Vodka
Penne alla vodka’s origin story is a bit hazy. Some say it was invented in the 1970s in Italy, while others claim it became popular in the 1980s on the US East Coast. Either way, this dish has cemented itself as a beloved Italian-American favorite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s make sure your penne all vodka turns out perfectly! Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooked pasta: Mushy noodles are a no-no. Stick with al dente!
- Dry chicken: Nobody likes rubbery chicken. Cook it quickly over high heat or check its internal temperature for doneness.
- Bland sauce: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Salt, pepper, and those fresh aromatics are key.
- Too thin or thick sauce: Pasta water is your friend for thinning. Simmering longer helps thicken the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make penne alla vodka ahead of time?
You can make the sauce ahead and reheat it gently before adding cooked pasta.
Is there a substitute for vodka?
While you won’t get the same flavor, white wine or chicken broth can stand in.
Can I freeze Penne alla vodka?
Yes, the sauce freezes well. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
What can I serve with penne alla vodka with chicken?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread are perfect accompaniments.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc balances the richness of the sauce nicely.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While penne is the classic, other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli work well too!
Penne Alla Vodka Chicken Recipe Conclusion
Penne alla vodka with chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make at home.
Whether you’re feeding a family or want a date-night-worthy meal, this recipe always delivers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations, tailor it to your preferences, and most importantly, enjoy the process!
1 thought on “Penne Alla Vodka Chicken Recipe: Insane”