Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that has become popular around the world for its creamy pasta and savory chicken flavor. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to make this favorite at home without requiring too much time or effort.

For 4 servings, you will need:

200 grams of fettuccine (or your preferred type of pasta)
300 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cloves garlic (optional but recommended)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Steps to Prepare the Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season it with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic cloves (if using) for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through – approximately 5-6 minutes per side or until no longer pink inside.
Once the chicken is ready, pour in the heavy cream into the same pan. Stir continuously until it begins to thicken slightly (about 3-4 minutes). Reduce heat if necessary.
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined with the cream sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or pepper.
Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken Alfredo sauce gently; do not overmix to keep some texture intact for a bit of al dente bite in each mouthful.
Plate your dish and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately while hot!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 750 kcal per serving
Total Fat: About 48g
Saturated Fat: Around 19g
Cholesterol: Roughly 300mg
Sodium: Approximately 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: About 52g including fiber of around 7g
Dietary Fiber: Approximately 4g
Sugars: Around 12g (natural from the cream and cheese)
Protein: About 30g

Tips for a Perfect Meal

To ensure that your Chicken Alfredo Pasta turns out perfect, here are some useful tips:

Freshness matters: Always use fresh ingredients like chicken and vegetables to enhance the flavor.
Heat control: Be careful not to overcook the pasta as it should remain slightly firm for texture. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy consistency.
Sauce consistency: Keep an eye on your sauce while cooking; it should be creamy but not too runny once mixed with the pasta.
Garnishing: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds freshness and color which can make all the difference in presentation and taste.

Variations

If you want to add more vegetables, you could include broccoli florets or spinach during the final stages of cooking. This not only makes your dish healthier but also brings additional colors to the plate.

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and use extra cheese instead for extra creaminess. You can also experiment with different types of pasta like fusilli or spirals if you prefer them over traditional fettuccine.

Storage Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh; however, leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions of your Chicken Alfredo Pasta separately wrapped. Thaw completely before reheating by either microwaving or placing it back in its pot over low heat until thoroughly warm throughout.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Alfredo Pasta and enjoy the rich flavors that come from a combination of creamy sauce and tender chicken all served with a side of al dente pasta. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family!