Penne alla Vodka with Chicken

Penne alla Vodka with Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic Penne alla Vodka. By adding tender pieces of chicken, we create a dish that is heartier and more satisfying. The rich, velvety vodka sauce clings perfectly to the penne pasta, creating a combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.

Penne alla Vodka has always been my go-to for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s a dish my girls consistently request and absolutely love.

Helpful Kitchen Tools:

OXO Good Grips 4 Piece Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons with Magnetic SnapsAnchor Hocking Glass Measuring Cups, 4 Piece Set (5 Ounce, 1 Cup, 2 Cup, 4 Cup liquid measuring cups)OXO Good Grips Plastic Utility Cutting Board 14.7Certified International Tequila Sunrise Serving Bowl, Extra Large, MulticoloredKAYCROWN Skimmer Slotted Spoon, 304 Stainless Steel Ladle/Strainer for Cooking and Frying, Pasta Strainer/Frying Spoon for Kitchen and ColanderBarilla Penne Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 12) – Non-GMO Pasta Made with Durum Wheat Semolina – Kosher Certified Pasta

Main Ingredients Needed:

• Chicken: Provides protein making it a hearty and filling dish.
• Penne Pasta: Chosen for its shape, holds the sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
• Vodka: Enhances the overall flavor. (Don’t worry your guests won’t get tipsy :)
• Crushed Tomatoes:  Adds a robust tomato flavor while balancing the richness of the cream.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a rich, creamy texture making the sauce velvety smooth.
• Onion and garlic: Enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
  
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken.
• Butter: Adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce’s taste and provides a slightly creamy texture when melted.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a touch of heat and spice.
• Salt, pepper and oregano:  Seasonings that enhance the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Provides a fresh flavor and a pop of color.

Step By Step Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.

Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the onions, sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant, add the chopped garlic and saute for an additional 2 minutes.

• Carefully add the vodka to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Cook for 20 minutes.

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

• Add the red pepper flakes, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley and basil.  Enjoy!

How to store Penne alla Vodka with Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you choose, you can freeze the sauce  separately for up to 2 months. When ready to use the sauce just make some fresh pasta.

Reheat leftovers in a pan on the stove-top or in the microwave with a bit of water to keep the pasta from drying out​.

Penne alla Vodka with Chicken

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• Author: Lori
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stove-Top
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

1 stick butter, salted

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 cup vodka

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.

1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon oregano

1/8 teaspoon red pepper, optional

5 – 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped

3/4 cup heavy cream

Parmesan cheese for extra flavor

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add Penne pasta and cook following directions on package. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add chicken, cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Remove chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

In a large saucepan on low heat, melt one stick of butter. Once melted, add chopped onion, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes or until fragrant. Add chopped garlic and saute for another 1 to 2 minutes.

Pour in vodka and cook for 2 to 3 minutes allowing the alcohol to evaporate.

Add can of crushed tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, oregano, red pepper (if using) and fresh basil. Cook on low for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cut chicken breast into one-inch cubes and add to sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Add heavy cream, stir and cook for 5 minutes until heated through.

Add pasta to sauce, toss to coat.

Top with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!