Creamy Chicken Alfredo Recipe: A Simple Guide to Pasta Perfection
Are you craving a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish? Look no further than this creamy chicken Alfredo recipe. This classic Italian-American favorite is easier to make than you think, and the results are incredibly satisfying. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring your creamy chicken Alfredo is restaurant-quality, without the restaurant price tag.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for your group size.
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best!)
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional, adds warmth)
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For the Pasta:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet (no need to wash!), melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until it's completely melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked chicken to the Alfredo sauce.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional).
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Alfredo:
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect the sauce's creaminess. Freshly grated Parmesan yields the best results.
- Don't Overcook the Garlic: Burning the garlic will make your sauce bitter.
- Low and Slow: Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken properly.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and chicken and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Add Some Greens: For a healthier twist, stir in some wilted spinach or broccoli florets at the end.
Variations:
- Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Mushroom Alfredo: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken for extra flavor and texture.
- Vegetable Alfredo: Add your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy chicken Alfredo! Remember to share your culinary creations using #CreamyChickenAlfredo. We'd love to see your versions!
