When it comes to satisfying comfort foods, Chicken Alfredo is unbeatable. It’s hard for me to resist a generous serving of pasta covered in a luscious, creamy sauce and garnished with delicious strips of seared chicken. Can you resist? (That question is not meant to be answered.) Now that I’ve discovered how simple it is to prepare this dish at home, I have a feeling it will become my go-to meal for special occasions. And let’s be honest, sometimes making it through the week is reason enough to celebrate in this household. 😉
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Unlike authentic alfredo, our American version incorporates heavy cream to create a smooth sauce that prevents the Parmesan from clumping or sticking to the pan. Other dairy products or substitutes with high water content are not suitable for achieving the desired melt-in-your-mouth cheese consistency. Therefore, I advise against substituting the heavy cream.
Fresh vs. Grated Parmesan
While freshly shredded Parmesan is undeniably superior to grated Parmesan from a can, our focus here is on budget-friendly cooking. Rest assured, I have carefully crafted this recipe to ensure it tastes delicious even with less expensive Parmesan. If you can spare some funds for a wedge of fresh Parmesan, go ahead and indulge! However, it’s important to know that you can still create a flavorful alfredo sauce even without splurging on high-quality Parmesan.
What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo
I prefer to serve a light and uncomplicated side salad with any rich and heavy dish like this. The gentle consistency and refreshing taste of a simple side salad provide an ideal contrast to the dense and creamy alfredo sauce. Additionally, Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus or Lemon Pepper Zucchini would be great accompaniments. And naturally, pasta night wouldn’t be complete without homemade garlic bread!
How Are the Leftovers?
Due to its richness, this sauce tends to thicken significantly as it cools. Therefore, it is best to serve and savor this pasta dish while it’s hot from the skillet. However, even when reheated, the leftovers of this creamy and delightful sauce are still worth enjoying. Just bear in mind that the texture may not be as velvety smooth.
Are you a fan of alfredo? Don’t miss out on our Shrimp Alfredo!
How to Make Chicken Alfredo – Step by Step Photos
In season two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sprinkle two teaspoons of Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt.
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it is thoroughly preheated, pour 1 tablespoon of cooking oil into the skillet and move it around to ensure the entire surface is coated. Place the chicken breasts into the skillet and cook each side for approximately 7-8 minutes, or until they are thoroughly browned and fully cooked. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean plate.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then incorporate 2 tablespoons of butter and 4 cloves of minced garlic into the skillet.
Heat the butter and garlic over medium-low heat, continuously stirring for approximately 2 minutes until the browned bits are dissolved.
Combine one cup of heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well. Increase the heat to medium and allow the cream to reach a gentle simmer.
In the meantime, start boiling a pot of water for the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add 8oz. of pasta and let it cook until it reaches a tender texture. Before draining the pasta in a colander, remember to save ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
As you wait for the pasta to boil, proceed with the sauce preparation. After the cream reaches a simmer, incorporate ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese and keep stirring and cooking until the sauce returns to a simmer.
Once the sauce is simmering again, the Parmesan will start melting. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce slightly thickens, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes. Finally, season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Combine the cooked and drained pasta with the alfredo sauce, tossing them together. If the sauce appears too thick or dry, incorporate a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and toss again to blend.
To serve, top the pasta with sliced chicken breast. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley.
Oh my goodness, that looks so delicious!
