Creamy Homemade Chicken Alfredo: A Comforting Classic

If there’s one dish that stands the test of time as an all-time favorite, it’s Homemade Chicken Alfredo. Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce lovingly wraps itself around tender pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a comforting plate of pure joy. This recipe allows you to make this delightful dish right at home, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your dining table. Whether you’re in search of a weekday dinner triumph or cooking up an impressive dish for a special occasion, Chicken Alfredo never disappoints.

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Ingredients

Before diving into the kitchen, let’s gather everything we need for this delightful meal.

12 oz. of fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of heavy cream
1 1/2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipments

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet
Tongs
Grater for the cheese
Serving tongs or a pasta fork

How to Make Creamy Homemade Chicken Alfredo – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can be a great way to ensure that your sauce reaches the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove from skillet and set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, constantly stirring to combine it well with the melted butter and garlic. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. Then, gradually add in the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Keep it at a low simmer; do not boil.

Step 5: Add the Chicken and Pasta

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and stir to coat. Add the prepared pasta to the skillet and use tongs to gently toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, use some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your liking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your Chicken Alfredo to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve promptly to enjoy the creamy texture and flavors at their best.

How to Serve Homemade Chicken Alfredo

Your Homemade Chicken Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread. A light white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of this dish perfectly.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

For silky smooth results, ensure your cheese is freshly grated. Pre-packaged grated cheese often comes with anti-caking agents that can inhibit melting. Additionally, stir the sauce continuously while adding the cheese to achieve a velvety texture.

Pumped Up Protein: High Protein Chicken Alfredo

If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, consider using whole wheat pasta or protein-enhanced pasta alternatives. You could also add a scoop of unflavored protein powder into the Alfredo sauce or choose to enrich your dish with some cooked shrimp or even roasted chickpeas for varied textures and tastes.

Another great addition could be a handful of spinach or kale, which pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce while adding nutrients and flavor depth. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, making this version suitable for post-workout recovery meals.

Low Carb Delight: Keto-Friendly Chicken Alfredo

For those pursuing a low carb lifestyle, swap the traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. These low-carb alternatives retain the essence of Alfredo while keeping those carb counts in check.

Furthermore, you can replace heavy cream with cream cheese or a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream to get the creamy feel without the extra carbs. This version is both satisfying and guilt-free, perfect for anyone dedicated to Keto eating plans.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. It’s important to reheat gradually over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating or scorching.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! This recipe works well with penne, linguine, or any of your favorite pasta varieties.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese? Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great substitutes for Parmesan in Alfredo sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance. However, for best results, cook the pasta and combine it just before serving.

My sauce is too thick; how can I fix it? Simply whisk in a little of the reserved pasta water, or if unavailable, milk until reaching your desired consistency.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version? Swap the chicken for mushrooms or add a variety of vegetables to make it vegetarian-friendly while maintaining flavor.

Join the Culinary Conversation: What Did You Think?

I hope this Homemade Chicken Alfredo recipe becomes a favorite in your household just as it has in mine. Let us know your take by sharing your experience in the comments below. Did you make any personal tweaks or serve it with creative sides? We’d love to hear all about it! Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow pasta lovers!