Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo

ByEmma

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with succulent chicken and fettuccine pasta. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation steps, and some pro tips to elevate your dish!

Contents

Ingredients

To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 ¼ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces
  • 12 oz dry fettuccine pasta
  • 4 oz finely shredded Parmesan cheese (about 1 ½ cups)
  • Optional for serving: Fresh parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes

Preparation Steps

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 7-8 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to infuse flavor into the chicken. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Pasta:
    • While cooking the chicken, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, typically one minute less than package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
    • In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium-low and add butter. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Add Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until melted and smooth. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
  5. Serve:
    • Plate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo and garnish with fresh parsley, lemon zest, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Pro Tips

  • Choosing Chicken: For juicier chicken, consider using thighs instead of breasts; they tend to be more forgiving during cooking.
  • Pasta Water Magic: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, enhancing its creaminess.
  • Fresh vs. Pre-grated Cheese: While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, fresh cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor.
  • Add Vegetables: For a healthier twist, consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach to your dish.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is sure to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture.

Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

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