Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with a dish that will leave you wanting more. Imagine a plate of tender fettuccine pasta smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with juicy chicken. Your taste buds are in for a treat.
Prep and Cook Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, with a cook time of about 25 minutes. This brings the total time to around 45 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any evening.
Yield (servings)
This recipe serves 4 people, making it perfect for a small family dinner or a night in with friends.
Difficulty Level
The difficulty level of this recipe is moderate. It requires some basic cooking skills, such as cooking pasta, sautéing chicken, and making a sauce from scratch. However, the steps are straightforward, and with a bit of practice, you’ll master it in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the fettuccine.
- In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 cup of butter. Once melted, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the cheese sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Chef’s Notes or Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of butter used in the recipe. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the fettuccine to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Reserve enough pasta water to achieve the right sauce consistency.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition Table
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 540 | 35g | 35g | 36g | 2g |
FAQ
- What is the best type of pasta to use for fettuccine Alfredo? Fettuccine is the traditional choice, but you can also use other flat, wide noodles like pappardelle or tagliatelle.
- Can I make fettuccine Alfredo ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then combine everything just before serving.
- How do I prevent the sauce from separating? Ensure the butter is fully incorporated into the cream before adding the cheese, and avoid overheating the sauce.
- Is fettuccine Alfredo a healthy meal option? While it can be rich, using lighter ingredients and moderation can make it a part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this fettuccine Alfredo recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
