Costco is a popular wholesale warehouse store that offers a variety of products at affordable prices. One of the store’s most sought-after meals is the Chicken Penne Alfredo dish. This hearty and delicious dish is perfect for families looking for a quick and easy dinner option.
If you’re a fan of this Costco menu item, you may be wondering how to recreate it at home. Fear not, as we will be exploring how to make this dish from scratch. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply enjoy a tasty meal in the comfort of your own home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, let’s get started on creating the perfect Chicken Penne Alfredo dish!
Ingredients Needed for Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo Recipe
Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo is a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal that you can make for any occasion. But before you start cooking, you need to gather all the ingredients necessary for this recipe. Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make this dish.
First, you will need one package of penne pasta. You can choose any brand of penne pasta, but it is recommended to use Costco’s Kirkland Signature Organic Penne Pasta. You will also need three cups of milk, two tablespoons of butter, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, one cup of grated Parmesan cheese, one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, you will need one cooked chicken breast, which has been seasoned and diced. With all these ingredients, you are ready to start cooking the Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo
To start preparing the Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo, you will need to gather all the required ingredients such as cooked penne pasta, chicken breast, heavy cream, butter, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley. First, cook the chicken breast in a pan until it’s fully cooked. After that, remove the chicken from the pan and slice it into small strips.
In the same pan, heat the butter and add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and heavy cream. Whisk the mixture and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to thicken. Add parmesan cheese to the sauce and let it melt well. Finally, add the cooked chicken and the pasta to the sauce and mix them all together. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top of the dish, and that’s it – you’ve successfully prepared the delicious Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo at home!
Secrets to Perfectly Cooked Chicken in Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo
One of the essential components of Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo is perfectly cooked chicken. Overcooked or undercooked chicken can ruin the entire dish and leave you with an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Therefore, to ensure you have the best experience, you must follow certain secrets to perfectly cooked chicken.
Firstly, make sure to marinate the chicken beforehand. You can use a combination of spices, lemon juice, and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful marinade. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor and make it tender. Secondly, sear the chicken on high heat for a few minutes before placing it in the oven. This will create a golden-brown crust on the chicken and lock in the juices, making it moist and juicy. Lastly, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has cooked through fully. By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken for your Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo!
Choosing the Right Pasta for Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo
When it comes to making Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo, choosing the right pasta is crucial. After all, the pasta is the foundation of the dish and can make or break its overall quality. So, what type of pasta should you use? Firstly, it’s essential to choose a pasta with a large surface area, as this will help the sauce to cling to it better. This makes penne a popular choice, as its ridged shape allows the sauce to be captured within its curves.
However, it’s not just the shape that counts; you also need to consider the type of pasta you’re using. Opt for pasta that is made from durum wheat as it has a higher gluten content. This means the pasta will hold its shape and texture better, and remain al dente. Overall, choosing the right pasta for your Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo can be tricky, but by selecting a pasta with a large surface area and high gluten content, you’ll be well on your way to creating a deliciously authentic Italian pasta dish.
Ideas for Customizing Your Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo Recipe
Want to put your own spin on Costco’s famous chicken penne alfredo? Here are some ideas for customizing the recipe to your taste preferences.
Firstly, try adding some vegetables to the dish. Broccoli, mushrooms, and red bell peppers are great options that add both nutrition and flavor. You can sauté them separately before adding them to the dish, or cook them with the chicken and pasta for a one-pot meal.
Secondly, experiment with different types of cheese. Instead of using just parmesan cheese, try adding some grated cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda to the alfredo sauce. This can give the dish a unique twist and add more richness to the sauce. With these ideas, you can take Costco’s chicken penne alfredo recipe to the next level and create a personalized dish that suits your taste buds.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo
To ensure maximum freshness and flavor, it is always advisable to consume Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo as soon as possible after preparation. However, if you have leftovers, there are a few storage and reheating tips that can help preserve the taste and texture of the dish.
Firstly, ensure that the remaining chicken penne Alfredo is stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. This will prevent bacteria growth and keep your dish fresher for longer. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the sauce to retain its smooth texture. Warm the dish on a low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delicious Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo for a few more meals.
Pairing Suggestions for Serving Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo
Pairing Suggestions for Serving Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo:
Serving a delicious and creamy bowl of Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo doesn’t have to be a solo affair. Here are some pairing suggestions that will elevate your dining experience to new heights. First on the list is a crisp Caesar salad. The tangy dressing and refreshing greens cut through the richness of the pasta, creating a perfect contrast that’s pleasing to the palate.
Another excellent pairing is garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor of the bread is a perfect complement to the savory pasta dish. You can also serve this dish with steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus to add some vibrant colors and nutrients to your plate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these pairings will take your Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo to the next level and bring harmony and balance to your meal.
The Bottom Line
Costco Chicken Penne Alfredo is a popular and mouth-watering dish that can be easily prepared at home. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can recreate this delicious and creamy dish in your kitchen. The key to making a perfect Costco-style Chicken Penne Alfredo is to use high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe closely.
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party with friends and family. By preparing it at home, you can adjust the seasoning and ingredients to your taste and dietary preferences. So, next time you crave some Chicken Penne Alfredo, skip the restaurant and try making it yourself. Trust us; it’s worth the effort!