Introduction
Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and full of flavor. This classic dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using). Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss it in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve
- Divide the pasta onto plates and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips
- For an extra creamy sauce, you can use half-and-half or add a little more Parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a crispy finish, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese over the top and broil the dish for a few minutes.
Conclusion
This Classic Chicken Alfredo is a deliciously creamy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent meal!