Three Cheese Chicken Penne

Here's a delightful recipe I conjured up based on the entree from Applebee's. Can you say YUM?

12 chicken strips, sliced into 1/2" pieces
1/3 cup Italian dressing
16 oz. penne pasta
15 oz. Alfredo sauce
6 oz. Mozzarella, shredded
6 oz. Provolone, shredded
1 cup Parmesan
10 oz. Italian-style tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/3 cup red pepper, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried basil

Slice chicken strips into 1/2" pieces. In large skillet, sear chicken in 3-4 tablespoon canola oil, cooking for 3-4 minutes before turning. Continue cooking until pieces are golden brown. Add Italian dressing and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Cook penne pasta in boiling water according to package directions, seasoning with 1 teaspoon sea salt. Drain and place in large microwavable casserole dish. Pour Alfredo sauce over pasta. Add shredded cheese and Parmesan, mixing well. Microwave for 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted, stirring after 3 minutes.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat olive oil and saute onion, pepper, and garlic until tender. Add tomatoes and simmer until most of the juice is gone. To serve, place generous amount of pasta on plate. Layer with chicken and a spoonful of tomato mixture. Serve with Soft Breadsticks. Serves 6-8

Wine Recommendation: Kendall-Jackson Vitner's Reserve Chardonnay 2012
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