Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with a dish that will comfort your soul and delight your taste buds.
Introduction to the Recipe
To begin with, let’s take a look at the key details of the recipe.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield and Difficulty
- Yield: 4 servings
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, 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 pound 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 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 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 until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Chef’s Notes or Substitutions
You can substitute the heavy cream with a mixture of half milk and half cream cheese for a lighter version, or use different types of cheese like mozzarella or provolone for a unique flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the fettuccine to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition and color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Nutrition Table
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 640 | 40g | 35g | 42g | 4g |
FAQ
- What is the best type of pasta to use for Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? Fettuccine is the traditional choice, but you can also use other flat, long noodles like tagliatelle or pappardelle.
- Can I make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine and reheat when ready.
- How do I prevent the sauce from separating? Make sure to remove the sauce from the heat when adding the Parmesan cheese, and stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
- Is Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo a healthy option? While it can be rich, using lean chicken and balancing the dish with vegetables can make it a more nutritious choice.
Conclusion
With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try tonight and experience the warmth and comfort of a classic Italian dish.
