Description
Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Crispy Chicken
Ingredients:
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 lb chicken breasts, sliced and breaded
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken for about 5-6 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Toss the cooked fettuccine with the creamy sauce until well coated. Arrange the sliced crispy chicken on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Serve the Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Crispy Chicken hot. This dish is perfect for a satisfying meal that combines the rich, creamy flavors of Alfredo sauce with the delightful crunch of crispy chicken. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Crispy Chicken!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Cook Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F. Season chicken slices with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a baking sheet and finish in the oven for 10 minutes to ensure crispiness.
2. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat. Let sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook Pasta: While sauce thickens, cook fettuccine in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet with sauce. Toss thoroughly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Plate the pasta, top with crispy chicken slices, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich dish immediately. Pair it with a light side to balance the meal. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus are excellent choices. For a restaurant-style touch, offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes at the table.
How-to Summary
Cook crispy chicken in a skillet and oven. In the same pan, make a garlic-butter cream sauce. Cook fettuccine al dente. Toss pasta with the sauce, top with chicken, and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, but for best texture, reheat pre-cooked chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness before adding to the pasta.
How can I make the sauce thicker? Let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese which will melt and help thicken the sauce.
What’s a lighter alternative to heavy cream? Half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of flour can work, but the sauce will be less rich and may require careful simmering to thicken.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce and chicken can be prepared separately and stored for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta for best results.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together? Always use a large pot of well-salted boiling water and stir the pasta immediately after adding it to the pot. Avoid overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Sauce: Simmer gently; boiling vigorously can cause the cream to separate or become greasy.
- Skipping Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is key for helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Underseasoning: Sauce and pasta water need adequate salt. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Soggy Chicken: Ensure the chicken is well-seared and finished in a hot oven to keep it crispy.
Conclusion
This Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Crispy Chicken is a classic comfort dish that balances luxurious texture with satisfying crunch. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Remember to garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful pasta dish for a special dinner any night of the week.