Chicken Alfredo: A Classic Comfort Dish with a Twist!
Chicken Alfredo is a timeless classic that never fails to impress with its rich, creamy sauce and tender, juicy chicken. This dish brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Today, we'll explore how to make this delightful dish, along with some creative alternatives to traditional ingredients, fun tips, and tricks to elevate your cooking experience.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3 lb. total)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 Tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)
- 8 oz. fettuccine
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the cooking oil and swirl to coat the surface. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a clean plate and let it rest.
- Turn the heat down to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant, about two minutes. This step helps dissolve any flavorful browned bits left from the chicken, enhancing the sauce.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet, whisking to combine. Let it come to a simmer while you cook the pasta.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until tender, about 7 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Once the cream simmers, add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, use some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and serve atop the creamy pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Fun Tips and Tricks
For a healthier option, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which are slightly fattier and more flavorful giving your chicken alfredo a boost!.
If you're vegetarian, swap the chicken for roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms!
Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh rosemary or sage can add a unique twist to the dish.
Olive oil is a traditional choice, but for a richer flavor, use a mixture of butter and oil. Alternatively, try avocado oil for its high smoke point and subtle taste.
Butter adds richness to the sauce, but you can use ghee for a nuttier flavor or a vegan butter substitute to make the dish dairy-free. Garlic is a must for that aromatic base for your chicken alfredo. For a more robust flavor, roast the garlic cloves beforehand.
Heavy cream creates the creamy texture we love. To lighten the dish, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream.
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but Romano or Asiago cheese can also work well. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative, offering a cheesy flavor. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the cheese adds saltiness.
Traditional fettuccine is perfect, but for a healthier option, consider whole wheat pasta or gluten-free alternatives. Zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash are great low-carb substitutes.
For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream. Let it simmer and reduce slightly before proceeding.
To make it a one-pot meal, cook the chicken in a deep skillet or Dutch oven, then make the sauce in the same pan. Add uncooked pasta directly into the sauce with some extra water or broth, and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce is creamy.
If you have leftovers, reheat them gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creaminess. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken and sauce.
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