Chicken Alfredo
A creamy, comforting chicken Alfredo dish that brings families together, perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken breasts Tender and juicy; feel free to substitute with grilled shrimp or veggies.
- 8 ounces Fettuccine pasta Traditional bed for this creamy delight.
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter For better control over seasoning.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Coconut milk can be a lighter alternative.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Freshly grated is best. Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative.
- 3 cloves Fresh garlic, minced The soul of this dish.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adding fresh herbs at the end can elevate the dish.
- optional Parsley, for garnish A sprinkle of green brings freshness.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Sautéing the Chicken
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
Making the Sauce
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream slowly, stirring continuously.
- Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combining and Serving
- Slice the chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with the cooked pasta.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess.
- Top with additional Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
Healthier swaps include using whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. Seasonal twists can add veggies like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Use fresh herbs at the end for vibrancy.