Description
Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Chicken
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
250g penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce
2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Slice into strips and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Boil the penne in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta & Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
Assemble the Plate
Serve the pasta on a plate, topped with grilled chicken slices.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
A creamy, protein-packed comfort meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. Season them thoroughly. While the chicken rests after grilling, start your pasta water. Salt it generously. As the pasta cooks, begin your sauce. The key is to keep the heat medium-low when adding the cream to prevent scalding. Whisk the Parmesan in gradually, allowing each addition to melt fully for a smooth, lump-free sauce. Combine the pasta and sauce off the heat, then immediately plate with the sliced chicken on top to preserve its grilled texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable, like asparagus or broccoli, also makes an excellent accompaniment. For a restaurant-style touch, offer extra grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes at the table.
How-to Summary
To summarize: season and grill chicken until cooked through. Boil penne pasta until al dente. Create the Alfredo sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, simmering cream, and whisking in Parmesan until thickened. Toss the pasta with the sauce, top with sliced grilled chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. Fettuccine is classic, but any sturdy pasta like fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle works well.
How can I make a lighter Alfredo sauce? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk, but be careful not to boil it vigorously. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still delicious.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I cook the chicken ahead of time? Yes. Grill the chicken, let it cool, slice, and refrigerate for up to two days. Add it to the warm pasta to reheat gently.
Why did my sauce turn out grainy? Graininess often comes from adding cheese to sauce that is too hot or boiling, which can cause the cheese to separate. Always simmer gently and remove from heat before fully whisking in the Parmesan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken, leading to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister. It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grate your cheese.
- Rinsing the cooked pasta after draining. This removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
- Boiling the cream sauce. A gentle simmer is essential to prevent curdling or separation.
- Underseasoning the pasta water. It should taste like the sea, as this is your chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a timeless, satisfying dish that proves gourmet-style meals are achievable at home. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that is both impressive and comforting. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, its creamy richness balanced with perfectly grilled chicken is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!