Description
Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz penne pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked penne pasta in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
Assemble the Dish:
Plate the creamy pasta and top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy the Creamy Comfort!
This grilled chicken Alfredo with penne pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner. With a creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s an all-time favorite for the whole family!
Let me know if you’d like adjustments or additional serving ideas!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect meal. First, start your pasta water boiling in a large, salted pot. While it heats, season and grill your chicken breasts. Once the chicken is resting, begin your Alfredo sauce in a large skillet. As the sauce simmers, cook your pasta to al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the starchy water. Toss the pasta directly into the Alfredo sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen it. Finally, slice the rested chicken and arrange it over the sauced pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic breadsticks, or steamed broccoli. For a restaurant-style touch, garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and a crack of black pepper. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
How-to Summary
To make Grilled Chicken Alfredo: 1) Boil penne pasta until al dente. 2) Grill seasoned chicken breasts until cooked through. 3) Create a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, adding cream and Parmesan, and simmering until thick. 4) Toss the pasta in the sauce. 5) Top with sliced chicken and fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, fettuccine is classic, but any sturdy shape like rigatoni or farfalle works well.
How can I prevent my sauce from breaking? Keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling vigorously after adding the cheese. Constant whisking helps.
Can I make this ahead of time? The sauce is best fresh. You can grill the chicken ahead, but reheat gently to avoid dryness.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
What’s a lighter alternative to heavy cream? For a less rich sauce, substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be thinner. Do not use milk, as it can curdle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Always cook to al dente, as it will soften further in the sauce.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Freshly grate your cheese.
- Slicing the chicken immediately: Letting it rest for 5 minutes ensures juicy, tender slices.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to separate. Remove from heat or ensure it’s at a low simmer.
Conclusion
This Grilled Chicken Alfredo is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that balances simplicity with indulgent flavor. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Its creamy comfort and satisfying protein make it a reliable choice for any dinner occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!