Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Delicious and creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta that is perfect for a comforting dinner.
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta will become a family favorite with its creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. Perfect for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce that clings to every noodle
- Tender chicken pieces for a satisfying meal
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
The Perfect Comfort Food
Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the fettuccine noodles, creating a rich and satisfying dish that warms the soul. This classic Italian-American recipe is ideal for family dinners, romantic evenings, or even a cozy night in. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults alike.
What sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas to the mix. Not only does this enhance the nutritional value, but it also adds a pop of color to your plate. This adaptability ensures that Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be enjoyed in countless variations, keeping mealtime exciting.
A Quick and Easy Meal
One of the best aspects of this Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen.
The step-by-step instructions guide you through cooking the chicken and preparing the Alfredo sauce, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve great results. It's an ideal option for those who want to impress guests or family without the stress of complicated cooking techniques. You’ll love how quickly dinner can go from prep to plate!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Chicken Alfredo Pasta experience, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread offers a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce. Together, these side dishes create a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.
For a touch of elegance, you might want to serve the pasta with a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The wine's acidity can cut through the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then add sliced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss to combine and heat through.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help revive its creamy texture. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Freezing is another option, but keep in mind that the cream sauce may change in texture. If you choose to freeze it, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately. This way, you can maintain the quality of both components and reassemble them when you're ready to enjoy your meal again.
Nutritional Information
Chicken Alfredo Pasta, while indulgent, can be made healthier by using whole grain fettuccine or adding vegetables. Whole grain pasta adds fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer and support digestive health. Incorporating vegetables not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds vibrant flavors and textures to the dish.
For those watching their caloric intake, you can reduce the amount of butter and cheese in the Alfredo sauce or substitute with lighter alternatives. Greek yogurt or low-fat cream can be used as a creamy base while still delivering a rich flavor. This allows you to enjoy the comfort of Chicken Alfredo while making it a more balanced meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat before serving.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and add vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Delicious and creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta that is perfect for a comforting dinner.
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then add sliced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
In the same skillet, add butter and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat until the butter is melted. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss to combine and heat through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g