Craving a creamy, comforting dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying? Look no further than our homemade chicken Alfredo recipe. This classic Italian-American dish combines tender chicken with a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, offering layers of flavor that will delight your palate. Perfect for a cozy evening at home, it also impresses at dinner parties. Let’s dig into the secrets of preparing the best homemade chicken Alfredo you’ll ever taste!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
- Large pot
- Frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Chef’s knife
How to Make Homemade Chicken Alfredo – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta using a colander.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same frying pan used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese melts, forming a smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until the pasta is thoroughly coated. Add the sliced chicken strips, combining gently until everything is well mixed and heated through.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken Alfredo
For a beautiful presentation, serve your homemade chicken Alfredo in pasta bowls. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Pair this rich dish with a side salad or a slice of garlic bread for a balanced meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your homemade chicken Alfredo is creamy, be sure not to rush the cooking process. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, preventing the cream from curdling. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-grated varieties, enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor. Additionally, maintaining a small amount of pasta water adds silkiness to the sauce.
Packed with Flavor: High-Protein Chicken Alfredo
If you’re seeking a protein boost, consider adding grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms to your Alfredo. These additions not only increase the protein content but also amplify the flavor profile. Opt for whole-grain pasta for added fiber, making this dish more nutritionally balanced without compromising taste.
Light Delight: Low-Carb Chicken Alfredo
For a low-carb version of this beloved dish, swap traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These alternatives significantly reduce the carb count while maintaining the essence of the meal. You’ll enjoy the same creamy satisfaction, but with a lighter twist that’s perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe lactose-free?
Yes, use lactose-free milk and cheese alternatives for a lactose-friendly version without sacrificing flavor. - Can I freeze chicken Alfredo?
It’s not recommended, as the sauce may separate. Instead, make and freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for optimal results. - How can I add more vegetables?
Toss in broccoli or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce for added nutrients. - What wine pairs well with this dish?
A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
Tantalizing Tastes Await: Share Your Alfredo Experience
With its creamy texture and irresistible flavors, this homemade chicken Alfredo is sure to become a family favorite in your home. Whether preparing for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe offers a delightful balance of richness and simplicity. If you enjoyed making it, share your experience and photos with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to pass the recipe on to friends and family who love a great Alfredo dish!
Homemade Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- olive oil
- garlic
- heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- unsalted butter
- fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook in olive oil until golden brown. Slice after resting.
- Cook fettuccine in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In the frying pan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts.
- Combine cooked pasta and chicken slices in the Alfredo sauce. Mix well and heat through.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.