Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi is a comforting, restaurant-style pasta dish you can easily recreate at home. Tender, marinated chicken is seared until juicy, then served over spiral cavatappi tossed in a creamy cheese sauce for a rich, satisfying meal.
Begin by marinating the chicken to lock in flavor and moisture. Sear or grill the chicken until fully cooked, then slice and arrange it over the sauced pasta.
The sauce combines heavy cream and a blend of cheeses, producing a silky texture that clings to the cavatappi spirals. This recipe is flexible — swap ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs.
Contents:
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups cavatappi pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing (for marinating)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
Place chicken breasts in a sealed container and pour in the Italian dressing. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to tenderize and flavor the meat.
Step 2: Cook the pasta
Boil the cavatappi according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear about 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the pan and let rest before slicing.
Step 4: Make the sauce
Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
Step 5: Combine and serve
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Slice the rested chicken and serve it on top of the cavatappi. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Marinate for flavor
Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to two hours adds depth and tenderness. Even 30 minutes makes a noticeable difference.
Use fresh cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella melt more evenly and improve the sauce’s texture and flavor.
Cook pasta al dente
Undercooking the pasta slightly helps it retain a pleasant bite after it’s mixed with the sauce.
Rest the chicken
Let the cooked chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing to preserve juices and keep the meat moist.
Taste the sauce
Before combining, taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper. Small adjustments will balance the richness.
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi
Green Salad
A crisp green salad brightens the plate and balances the creamy pasta. Use mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon or balsamic vinaigrette.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread pairs perfectly: spread garlic butter on a sliced baguette and toast until golden for a crunchy, savory side.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots add color and nutrients. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until caramelized.
Caprese Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers and finish with a light balsamic drizzle for a fresh appetizer.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper offers a simple, crisp side that contrasts the creamy pasta nicely.
Variations and Substitutions
Alternative Cheeses
Try gouda or fontina for a different melting profile and flavor. A sharper Pecorino Romano can add a savory punch.
Protein Choices
Swap chicken for shrimp or firm tofu if you prefer. Marinate similarly and adjust cook time for the chosen protein.
Pasta Options
Other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well — choose one that holds sauce in its grooves or twists.
Healthier Options
Use reduced-fat cream and cheeses or a plant-based cream alternative. Substitute gluten-free pasta if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi
Store leftovers correctly to keep flavor and texture. Follow these simple steps for best results.
Airtight Containers
Place portions in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and protect the dish from fridge odors. Use containers that minimize excess air.
Refrigeration
Refrigerate promptly. Stored properly, leftovers will stay good for 3–4 days. Reheat gently to preserve sauce texture.
Label and Date
Label containers with the date so you can track freshness and use the oldest portions first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating the Chicken Too Briefly
Rushing the marinating step reduces flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes, up to two hours for best results.
Cooking Chicken Incorrectly
Avoid undercooking or overcooking. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then let the chicken rest before slicing.
Sauce Consistency Issues
Simmer the cream gently and stir frequently to keep the sauce velvety. Avoid boiling, which can cause separation or a grainy texture.
Applebee’s Chicken Cavatappi Recipe
Marinate the chicken, cook the pasta al dente, and finish with a velvety cream and cheese sauce.
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 2 cups Cavatappi Pasta
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- 1/4 cup Italian Dressing
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Start by marinating the chicken.
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Combine chicken breasts with Italian dressing in a sealed container and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
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Boil the cavatappi until al dente, then drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken.
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Sear each side about 5 minutes or until fully cooked; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Melt butter in a saucepan, sauté garlic 1–2 minutes, then pour in heavy cream and simmer gently.
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Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, slice the rested chicken, and serve on top.