Easy Homemade Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian pasta dish that has been popular for decades. Known for its creamy, buttery sauce and tender chicken, it’s the perfect comfort food for busy weekdays or family dinner nights. This recipe promises to deliver all the flavors without the fuss of a complicated process.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta, preferably whole wheat for healthier option
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Steps for Making Chicken Alfredo

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare the chicken by slicing each breast into strips. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes for fresh or whole wheat fettuccine. Drain thoroughly after cooking and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the butter. Once melted, add in the sliced chicken pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 6 to 8 minutes total time. Remove from the pan and let it cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures that all pieces will be tender after serving.

While the chicken is cooling, prepare the sauce by melting the remaining butter in a separate saucepan over low heat. Stir in flour to make a roux which thickens the sauce naturally. Gradually whisk in the cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined and smooth. Continue cooking gently for about 3 minutes or until slightly thickened without boiling.

Combine the cooked fettuccine with the chicken and Alfredo sauce in your serving dish. Mix gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients throughout the pasta. Taste and add salt, pepper if needed before serving hot.

Cooking Time & Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, taking around 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish including preparation time for chicken, boiling water for pasta, cooking chicken, mixing the sauce, and assembling everything. The dish can be enjoyed right away or served cold as a leftover meal.

Tips & Variations

• For a more authentic taste, consider using imported Italian cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano instead of standard Parmesan.
• If you prefer less fat content in your Alfredo sauce, reduce the amount of butter or use non-fat milk as an alternative to heavy cream.
• To make this dish spicier, add some crushed red pepper flakes when melting the butter for the roux.

Chicken Alfredo can be served with a side salad for added freshness or alongside garlic bread for an extra treat. It’s also great paired with grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers for a balanced meal.

Freshness Tip: Pairing Chicken Alfredo with a Side Salad

To enhance the nutritional profile of your Chicken Alfredo, consider having it alongside a side salad. A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing not only balances out the richness of the dish but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. Adding some fruits like sliced strawberries or blueberries to the salad adds a touch of sweetness that complements the salty flavors of the Alfredo sauce.

Conclusion

Chef's Note: If you find yourself in need of an easy yet delicious recipe, Chicken Alfredo fits the bill perfectly. Its creamy texture and savory taste make it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Plus, with its versatility and adaptability to different preferences, this dish truly stands out among other pasta recipes.