Chicken Penne Vodka: A Creamy, Dreamy Delight

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Penne alla vodka, a classic Italian-American dish, is a comforting blend of rich tomato sauce, creamy vodka, and al dente pasta. But today, we’re taking this beloved recipe on a global culinary adventure, infusing it with flavors from around the world.

Ingredients:

1 pound penne pasta

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup vodka
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

  • Heathy Chicken Penne Alla Vodka
    Heathy Chicken Penne Alla Vodka

    Image Source: healthfulblondie.com

    Preparation:

    1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
    3. Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the vodka and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes.
    4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

    Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Asian Fusion: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables and a drizzle of soy sauce.

  • Mediterranean Twist: Top with crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce.

  • This dish is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. By blending Italian and American flavors with global influences, we’ve created a meal that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that celebrates diversity and encourages us to explore the endless possibilities of food.