Description
Crispy Chicken Strips with Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Strips:
2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Alfredo Pasta:
12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Strips:
In separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip in egg, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble and Serve:
Plate the creamy pasta and top with crispy chicken strips. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
This Crispy Chicken Strips with Creamy Alfredo Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that combines crunchy chicken and velvety pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for a family dinner or a special treat!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, set up your breading station: three shallow bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Keep one hand for dry ingredients and one for wet to avoid clumping. Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet to 350°F before you start breading. While the chicken rests after frying, begin boiling your pasta water. For the sauce, ensure your cream is at room temperature and add the grated Parmesan off the heat initially to prevent separation, returning it to low heat to melt smoothly.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this dish family-style on a large platter or individually for a restaurant-quality presentation. Serve immediately while the chicken is still crisp. A simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a vegetable addition, steamed broccoli or asparagus spears pair perfectly. Garnish with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.
How-to Summary
Cut chicken breasts into even strips. Bread using a standard three-step process: flour, egg, then seasoned breadcrumbs. Pan-fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through. Boil pasta until al dente. For the sauce, sauté garlic in butter, add cream, then whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Toss pasta with sauce, top with chicken strips, and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken strips instead of frying? Yes. Place breaded strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
How can I prevent my Alfredo sauce from becoming grainy? Use finely grated, fresh Parmesan cheese and add it off the direct heat, stirring constantly. Avoid pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents.
What’s the best way to keep fried chicken strips crispy? Let them drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from making the bottom soggy.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can bread the chicken strips and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before cooking. The Alfredo sauce is best made fresh but can be gently reheated with a splash of cream.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but be careful not to boil it vigorously. The sauce will be thinner but still flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet when frying, which lowers oil temperature and leads to greasy, unevenly cooked chicken.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese from a canister, which often doesn’t melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Adding cheese to the sauce while it’s at a rolling boil, causing it to separate.
- Cutting chicken strips unevenly, resulting in some pieces being overcooked while others are underdone.
- Rinsing the cooked pasta, which removes the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chicken Strips with Creamy Alfredo Pasta recipe delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that is sure to become a household favorite. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master the techniques for perfect frying and a luxuriously smooth sauce. It’s a versatile dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests. Remember, the key lies in preparation and avoiding the common pitfalls. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary effort!