Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Tomato Topping
- Combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Stir gently and set aside.
Cook the Penne
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Season the Chicken
- Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. Toss with olive oil, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook until browned and completely cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a clean plate.
Make the Three Cheese Sauce
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the Asiago, white cheddar, and Parmesan, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
- Add the chicken broth and continue cooking gently until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
Add the Chicken
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently fold it into the creamy pasta. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Add the Tomato Topping
- Spoon the fresh tomato and basil mixture over the pasta just before serving. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and helps create a creamy sauce.
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than boiling it.
- Penne can be replaced with rigatoni, ziti, rotini, cavatappi, or another short pasta.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast.
- Leave out the red pepper flakes for a mild version.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water, chicken broth, or a small splash of cream.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and use within 3–4 days.
- Reheat gently with a splash of cream, milk, broth, or water to loosen the sauce.
