Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo, a beloved Italian-American pasta dish, is known for its creamy, rich sauce and tender pieces of chicken. This is the perfect family dinner made with the best homemade alfredo sauce!

The origins of Chicken Alfredo can be traced back to Italy, where the original dish is known as "fettuccine al burro" or "fettuccine al triplo burro," meaning "fettuccine with butter" or "fettuccine with triple butter." 

Chicken Alfredo is made with fettuccine noodles tossed in a sauce made from butter and Parmesan cheese. The chicken is seasoned perfectly and cooked to golden perfection on the exterior. Then, combine with creamy pasta with a velvety garlic and parmesan cream sauce. A true classic dish that will be loved by everyone!

Ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs are commonly used. They are typically seasoned and sautéed before being added to the pasta.
• Pasta: Fettuccine is the traditional pasta choice for Chicken Alfredo. Its flat, wide shape allows it to hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, you can use other pasta shapes if you prefer.
• Alfredo Sauce: The signature Alfredo sauce is made from butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Garlic, salt, pepper, and sometimes nutmeg are used for flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, freshly ground black pepper, and sometimes a pinch of nutmeg are used to season the sauce.

How to make Chicken Alfredo?

1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Then, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken until it's fully cooked and has a golden-brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Reduce the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if desired. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to combine and heat through. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve your Chicken Alfredo immediately while it's hot. It's best enjoyed fresh.

Variations and Accompaniments:

Chicken Alfredo is a versatile dish, and you can customize it to suit your preferences.

Here are some variations and accompaniments:

• Vegetable Additions: You can add sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or peas to your Chicken Alfredo for extra flavor and nutrition
• Protein Substitutions: If you're not a fan of chicken, you can use shrimp, salmon, or even tofu as a protein substitute.
• Pasta Choices: While fettuccine is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, linguine, or spaghetti.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make lovely garnishes. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on top.

What is Alfredo sauce made of?

Alfredo sauce is typically made from butter, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings like garlic, salt, and pepper. Nutmeg is sometimes added for extra flavor.

Can I use pre-made Alfredo sauce from a jar for Chicken Alfredo?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience. However, making your own homemade Alfredo sauce allows you to customize the flavor and consistency to your liking.

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Alfredo?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs are commonly used for Chicken Alfredo. They are typically seasoned, sautéed, and then sliced or diced before being added to the pasta.

Can I make Chicken Alfredo without cream?

Yes, you can make a lighter version of Chicken Alfredo by substituting heavy cream with whole milk or a milk alternative like almond or soy milk. The sauce may be slightly less creamy but still delicious.

Can I make Chicken Alfredo with gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a gluten-free version of Chicken Alfredo. There are many gluten-free pasta options available in stores.

What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo?

It pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple tomato and basil salad for a refreshing contrast.

Exact ingredients measures:

Making Chicken Alfredo is a straightforward and rewarding process.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating this classic Italian-American pasta dish:

**Ingredients:**

- 8 ounces (about 225 grams) fettuccine pasta

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

- 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter

- 1 cup (about 100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)

- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Enjoy the taste!