Experience the rich, creamy delight of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also promises to impress your family and friends with its restaurant-quality flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 600 calories, 30g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 35g of protein. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken slices to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Incorporate the cooked fettuccine into the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach can also enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously to prevent separation.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting.
- Be cautious with salt; the cheese adds saltiness.
- Don’t skimp on the butter; it enriches the sauce.
Helpful Tips
- Cook chicken in advance for quicker preparation.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
- Keep the sauce on low heat to avoid burning.
- Experiment with adding different herbs such as basil or oregano.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, such as penne or linguine, but fettuccine is traditional for this dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be made in advance for quick meals.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry or additional cheese as it simmers.
What can I serve with Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?
It goes well with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a comforting and indulgent dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked chicken slices to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Incorporate the cooked fettuccine into the skillet, tossing to coat.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
