Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Savoring a delicious, homemade Italian dish can be a truly comforting experience, especially when it’s made with love and care. Imagine a rich, creamy sauce coating tender fettuccine noodles, paired with juicy chicken for a satisfying meal.

Overview

To make this dish, consider the following key points:

Time Requirements

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for a small gathering or a family dinner.

Difficulty

The difficulty level is moderate, requiring some basic cooking skills and attention to detail to achieve the perfect creamy sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine noodles
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let cook for about 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked fettuccine noodles to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Chef’s Notes or Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or cream. Additionally, consider adding some steamed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Tips for Success

• Ensure you don’t overcook the noodles to maintain their texture.
• Stir the sauce constantly when adding the cheese to avoid lumps.
• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or in the microwave with a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

Nutrition Table

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	540
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	37g
Fat	32g
Sugar	2g

FAQ

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick? You can prevent the sauce from becoming too thick by adding some of the reserved pasta water.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and cook the dish just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version? Absolutely, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe? Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice, but you can also experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino or Romano.

Conclusion

With this detailed guide, you’re ready to create a mouthwatering Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo that will impress your family and friends. Take your time, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of crafting this Italian classic, knowing you’ve put love and care into every delicious bite.