Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Indulge in a rich and satisfying Italian-American classic that will become your new favorite comfort food. With its velvety sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

Introduction to the Recipe

To start making your Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, note the following details:

• 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 cup of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
6. 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.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
8. 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, consider adding some steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the fettuccine to ensure it retains its texture.
• If using vegetables, add them towards the end of cooking the chicken so they retain their color and nutrients.

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 more cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Table

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

FAQ

• Q: Can I make Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo ahead of time?
  A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
• Q: Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
  A: Yes, consider reducing the amount of butter and adding more vegetables to increase the nutrient density.
• Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
  A: While fettuccine is traditional, other flat, long noodles like pappardelle or even linguine can work well.
• Q: How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
  A: Stir constantly when adding the cheese, and remove from heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Conclusion

With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting, indulgent flavors of Italy in the comfort of your own home.