If you’re looking for a creamy and delicious dinner, chicken Alfredo pasta is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and pasta cooked to perfection, this dish is comforting and full of flavor. It’s easy to make and great for any night of the week.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta:
- Pasta: 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, freshly grated
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, for garnish
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Alfredo Pasta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until it begins to simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
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Serve: Serve the Chicken Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy.
Choosing the Right Pasta for Chicken Alfredo
While fettuccine is the traditional choice for Alfredo sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well in this dish. The key is to choose a pasta that holds the sauce nicely, ensuring every bite is full of creamy goodness.
How to Cook Perfectly Tender Chicken for Alfredo Pasta
To achieve tender and juicy chicken, it’s important not to overcook it. Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces helps it cook quickly and evenly. Searing the chicken in olive oil also adds a nice flavor that complements the rich Alfredo sauce.
The Secret to Creamy Alfredo Sauce: Tips and Tricks
The key to a perfect Alfredo sauce is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Also, be sure to simmer the sauce gently to prevent it from separating.
Variations: Customize Your Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Add Vegetables: Stir in some steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a bit of heat.
- Use Different Protein: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, or go vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether.
Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Chicken Alfredo Pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For a complete Italian feast, you can serve it alongside a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot Alfredo sauce.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is a must for the best flavor and texture.
- Overheating the Sauce: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent it from separating or becoming too thick.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief overview of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 650
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 35g
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a classic dish that’s easy to make and loved by everyone. With a rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.