Delicious Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a beloved Italian-American dish that has been delighting diners for decades with its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces nestled in pasta. If you're looking to whip up something indulgent yet comforting at home, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your craving.

Ingredients

• 300 grams of fettuccine pasta
• 150 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, freshly grated (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing chicken

Instructions

Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. It's important to ensure that the garlic does not burn as it can impart a bitter taste.

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, turning occasionally to brown all sides. This will take approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Once the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or higher), remove from heat and let it cool slightly before dicing into bite-sized pieces.

Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a separate saucepan over low heat. Add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Stir continuously until the mixture starts to thicken into a smooth consistency, which should take about 5 minutes.

Combine the cooked chicken with the creamy sauce in your skillet or large pot. Gently toss everything together so that all pieces are well coated in the rich and flavorful sauce. Once thoroughly combined, fold in the drained pasta. Heat through for another minute without boiling to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Cooking Time & Servings

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes total time, with a cooking time of around 15-20 minutes. It serves four hungry individuals as one generous portion per person.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~645
• Total Fat: ~37g
• Saturated Fat: ~18g
• Cholesterol: ~90mg
• Sodium: ~1,100mg
• Potassium: ~120mg
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~15g
• Protein: ~38g

Tips & Variations

To make this dish even more satisfying, consider adding some fresh vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers. You could also experiment with different types of pasta, like angel hair or linguine, for a slightly different texture experience.

1. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the sauce just before serving for extra flavor and freshness.
2. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream used in favor of using more chicken broth to create a thinner sauce. This will cut down on calories while still providing plenty of flavor.
3. Incorporate some fresh herbs like parsley or basil into your dish after cooking for an aromatic and colorful garnish.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is not only satisfying but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions from casual weeknight dinners to special events. Whether you're hosting friends over for a cozy dinner night or simply treating yourself on a quiet evening at home, this recipe provides the perfect balance of comfort food and flavor.