Chicken Alfredo

Every time I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to my mind is Chicken Alfredo. There’s just something about the creamy sauce, tender pieces of chicken, and perfectly cooked fettuccine that warms my heart. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something that felt like a warm hug. As the scent of garlic and parmesan filled the kitchen, my family gathered around the table, and I could see their eyes light up with anticipation. That evening turned into a tradition, where we would often enjoy Chicken Alfredo on special occasions or simply when we needed a comforting meal. It’s that one recipe that brings everyone together, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

When it comes to Chicken Alfredo, the magic truly lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating that rich, indulgent flavor we all crave. The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and al dente fettuccine is nothing short of perfection. Let’s dive deeper into why this recipe stands out and why I love it so much.

Ingredient List for Chicken Alfredo

When it comes to making the perfect Chicken Alfredo, the ingredients you choose play a pivotal role. Each one contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes your taste buds. Here’s a look at the key players:

• 16 ounces of fettuccine (cooked and drained according to package directions) – The base of our dish, providing a hearty and comforting foundation.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend – A touch of herbs that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and depth to the seasoning.
• 1¼ to 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets (3-4 pieces) – The star of the show, tender and flavorful.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Ideal for cooking the chicken to perfection.
• 6 tablespoons salted butter – Creates a rich base for the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic – Adds an aromatic touch, making the sauce irresistible.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the garlic flavor throughout the dish.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Additional seasoning for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that lovely creamy consistency.
• 1½ cups whole milk – The foundation of our creamy sauce.
• 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream – Richness that elevates the sauce.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – The final touch that brings the flavor together.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish, adding a hint of freshness and color.

How to Prepare Chicken Alfredo

Preparing Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience that takes you through a series of flavorful steps. Follow along as we create this creamy masterpiece!

1. In a large pot, heat water over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together the Italian seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets generously with the seasoning mix.
3. In a large (12-inch) skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken cutlets to the pan. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and garlic, whisking to combine until no raw flour remains.
7. While whisking continuously, slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy whipping cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
8. Allow the sauce to come to a low boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it thicken for 2 to 3 minutes, whisking often to avoid burning.
9. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Remove from heat.
10. Add the cooked and drained fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently until all the noodles are coated in the creamy sauce.
11. Slice the rested chicken cutlets into strips and place them on top of the fettuccine. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Tips and Variations

There’s always room to tweak the recipe and make it your own! Here are some tips and variations to consider when making Chicken Alfredo.

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Alfredo sauce separately and combine it with freshly cooked pasta later. However, the creaminess may change slightly when reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost!
• Protein Choices: If desired, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Chicken Alfredo, there are many delightful ways to enhance your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Caesar Salad: A light and refreshing Caesar salad adds a crisp texture that balances the richness of the dish.
• Wine Pairing: If you’re looking for a drink, a refreshing sparkling water or lightly flavored iced tea would be fantastic choices.
• Family Gatherings: Serve this dish at family dinners or celebrations where people come together to enjoy good food and company.
• Seasonal Pairing: During summer months, consider adding fresh herbs or heirloom tomatoes to brighten the flavor profile.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Alfredo is that delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying pasta create a beautiful harmony of flavors that everyone loves. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in. It’s a guaranteed hit that will keep your family coming back for more!

Chicken Alfredo

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, savory dish that everyone craves. With tender chicken and perfectly cooked fettuccine enveloped in a luscious sauce, it makes for an easy weeknight dinner. Treat yourself to this delicious meal tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 720 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Blender
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 16 ounce Fettuccine cooked and drained according to package directions
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black pepper
• 1¼ to 1½ pound Boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets (3-4 pieces)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 6 tablespoons Salted butter
• 1 tablespoon Minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1½ cups Whole milk
• 1¼ cups Heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup Grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

 

• In a large pot on medium-high heat, cook and drain the fettuccine noodles according to package directions. Set aside.
• Combine the Italian seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Season both sides of each of the chicken cutlets with the seasoning blend.
• Add olive oil to a large (12-inch) skillet on medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken cutlets to the pan and cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet to rest on a plate.
• Turn the heat to the skillet to medium and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant.
• Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the butter and whisk to combine until no raw flour remains.
• While whisking constantly, slowly pour the whole milk and heavy whipping cream into the skillet. Be sure to whisk until no lumps remain from the flour.
• Allow the Alfredo sauce to come to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to thicken for 2-3 minutes. Be sure to whisk often to ensure your Alfredo sauce is not burning.
• Whisk in the grated parmesan cheese to the sauce until fully incorporated. Remove from the heat.
• Add the cooked and drained fettuccine noodles to the Alfredo sauce. Toss the noodles in the sauce until fully coated.
• Slice the pan-seared chicken cutlets into strips and place them on top of the fettuccine Alfredo. Garnish with the fresh chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

• Uniform Chicken Pieces: When picking out the chicken cutlets, look for equally sized pieces for even cooking. If they vary in size, consider cooking each piece separately to ensure they all reach the desired doneness.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, aim for an al dente consistency in your fettuccine. It should be tender yet firm when bitten into, providing the perfect complement to the creamy sauce.
• Time Management: I recommend starting the water for your pasta while prepping the other ingredients. This multitasking will help everything come together seamlessly.
• Serve Warm: Chicken Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh while the sauce is warm. The longer it sits, the thicker it becomes, which might alter the dish's intended creamy texture.

Keyword Chicken Alfredo, Comfort Food, Creamy Alfredo Sauce, Easy Dinner Recipe