Craving Carb Heaven? Master the Art of Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken in Minutes

Indulge in the culinary artistry of making fettuccine alfredo with chicken, a dish that tantalizes taste buds and warms the soul. This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets of creating this classic Italian delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fettuccine pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

#1. Season and Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.

#2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

• While the chicken cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickens.
• Stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses until melted.

#3. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

• Transfer the cooked chicken to the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce.
• Stir to combine and heat through.

#4. Cook the Fettuccine

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package directions.
• Drain the fettuccine and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

#5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Add the drained fettuccine to the saucepan with the chicken and Alfredo sauce.
• Stir to combine and add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

#6. Serve and Garnish

• Serve the fettuccine alfredo with chicken immediately.
• Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Perfection

• Use freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add more milk or pasta water.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach to the dish for a veggie-packed twist.
• Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer sauce.
• Top with grilled shrimp or scallops for a seafood lover’s delight.

Health Benefits

Fettuccine alfredo with chicken is a good source of:

• Protein: From the chicken and cheese
• Carbohydrates: From the pasta
• Calcium: From the cheese
• Vitamin B12: From the chicken

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the chicken up to a day in advance. Reheat both before combining with the pasta.

Q: What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
A: You can use Pecorino Romano cheese or Grana Padano cheese.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free fettuccine or other gluten-free pasta alternatives.

Q: What other seasonings can I add to the dish?
A: You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Q: Can I use other types of meat?
A: Yes, you can use shrimp, scallops, or tofu as substitutes for chicken.