Introduction
Get ready to twirl into deliciousness with this Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo that combines tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta into one heavenly dish! Perfect for a cozy meal or impressing dinner guests with your culinary magic.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 1/3 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
2. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
5. Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach desired consistency.
6. Slice the cooked chicken and layer it on top of the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
7. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy your creamy creation!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate): Calories: 750 kcal, Carbohydrates: 62g, Protein: 45g, Fat: 38g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Cheese to Sauce
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Slice and Layer Chicken
Slice the cooked chicken and layer it on top of the pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy your creamy creation!
Notes
Chicken Cooking Time
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Cheese Quality
For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated.
Pasta Tips
Be careful not to overcook the fettuccine; al dente pasta will hold up better in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a light salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cook Techniques
Chicken Cooking
Cooking chicken breasts requires careful attention to avoid drying out the meat. Use medium heat and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing to retain juices.
Making Alfredo Sauce
For a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in melted butter until fragrant, then add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted for a smooth consistency.
Pasta Preparation
Always cook fettuccine until al dente, following package instructions. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Tossing Pasta
Gently toss the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce, ensuring that every strand is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create the desired creaminess.
Garnishing
Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the rich Alfredo sauce.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, while fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use other pasta types like linguine, penne, or rigatoni if desired.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on the outside.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh right before serving to maintain its texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or grilled vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Conclusion
