Creamy Chicken Alfredo Recipe

why make this recipe

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a favorite comfort food loved by many. It combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine pasta into one delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish.

how to make Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Cheese: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.

5. Combine Everything: Toss cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken into the sauce until well coated.

6. Serve: Plate the dish with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

how to serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo hot. You can add extra grated Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Chicken Alfredo

• Make sure not to overcook the chicken. It should be juicy and tender.
• Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives a better flavor and texture than pre-grated cheese.
• Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

variation

You can change the protein by using shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce can give it a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

2. Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
You can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream to reduce calories, and you can also reduce the amount of cheese.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and then combine with the pasta right before serving.

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