Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine gives this dish a delightful texture, but you could easily swap it for other pasta types like penne or linguine if you prefer! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Chicken Breasts: I recommend using skinless, boneless chicken breasts for ease and quick cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breasts are a good substitute. For a vegetarian version, consider using grilled or sautéed mushrooms instead!

Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor when cooking the chicken. If you don’t have any on hand, avocado oil or sunflower oil would work well too, as they have a high smoke point and subtle taste.

Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is key for a rich sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just note the flavor might change slightly!

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best results. If it’s unavailable, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be great substitutes. For a vegan option, look for plant-based Parmesan cheese.

How Do You Ensure A Creamy Alfredo Sauce?

Making the perfect Alfredo sauce is all about the technique! It’s crucial to keep the heat manageable to avoid curdling the cream. Here’s how to do it:

• After sautéing garlic, lower the heat before adding the cream. You want it warm but not boiling!
• When adding Parmesan, do it gradually while stirring. This helps it melt smoothly into the cream.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This helps keep the sauce creamy and coats the pasta nicely.

Following these steps should help you achieve a velvety Alfredo sauce every time!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta and Chicken:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, then about 15 minutes making the creamy sauce and combining it all. Dinner will be ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Fettuccine:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for later.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and golden brown. After that, take them out of the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to mix everything together. Keep cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the cream is heated through but not boiling.

4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:

Now it’s time to make it cheesy! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning. Keep stirring frequently as the sauce cooks for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens up nicely. Don’t forget to taste it—add more salt and pepper as desired!

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Take your cooked fettuccine and add it to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute just to heat everything through.

6. Serve:

Now it’s time to enjoy! Plate the fettuccine Alfredo and top it with the sliced chicken. If you like, garnish your dish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while it’s nice and warm. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as lighter alternatives. However, keep in mind that this may result in a thinner sauce. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken the sauce as it cooks.

What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute with a similar flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese that melts well. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference!

How to Store Leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish. You can sauté them in the skillet after cooking the chicken or steam them separately and toss them in while combining the pasta and sauce.