Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo combines tender chicken breasts with creamy Alfredo sauce and fettuccine pasta for a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. This classic recipe is a favorite in many households for its delicious flavors and straightforward preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special date night, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
To whip up this satisfying meal, you’ll need:
- Fettuccine Pasta: 1 pound
- Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless and skinless
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Parsley: Freshly chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if necessary.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. Add the sliced chicken and toss gently to combine. Heat through for 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is warm.
- Serve:
- Plate the Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Storage Ideas
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Add-On Suggestions
- Vegetables: Enhance the dish by adding steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Spices: Add a dash of nutmeg or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor.
- Protein Variations: Consider substituting shrimp or scallops for the chicken for a seafood version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Alfredo sauce healthier? A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little flour to thicken the sauce instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Q: How do I keep the chicken moist and tender? A: Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and letting it rest before slicing.
Q: What can I do if my Alfredo sauce is too thick? A: Thin the sauce with some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Health Considerations
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is rich in flavor but also high in calories and fats. Enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet, possibly with some modifications for those watching their intake of fat and calories.
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless dish that is perfect for those seeking comfort food with gourmet flair. Enjoy crafting this creamy, savory pasta dish that combines all the richness of Alfredo sauce with the satisfying protein of chicken.
