How to Make a Delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo pasta is one of those dishes that bring back fond memories for many people. It’s creamy, comforting, and versatile enough to be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal or paired with a salad for an even healthier option. This classic Italian dish is simple yet luxurious, making it perfect for any dinner party or a cozy night at home. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delectable Chicken Alfredo Pasta.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups of chicken breast strips (cooked and shredded)
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided into 1 tablespoon and 2 tablespoons
• 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

To start, cook your fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. This should take around 8 minutes, but always check for doneness by tasting a piece from the pot before draining.

In the meantime, you can prepare the chicken. You’ll need shredded cooked chicken, which you may have on hand or could purchase fully cooked at your local market. Once the pasta is ready, set aside two tablespoons of butter and pour the remaining butter into a skillet over medium heat. Add in garlic powder, stirring until fragrant.

Add the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the skillet and cook for about three minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set it aside once done. For now, drain your pasta but save some cooking water just in case you need a bit more creaminess.

Now comes the magic: mixing everything together! Pour in half of the heavy cream into the skillet where the chicken sits and stir until smooth. Then add in the remaining two tablespoons of butter, along with Parmesan cheese for that signature flavor and texture. Stir continuously to avoid burning on the bottom while you let it simmer for about one minute.

Once the sauce thickens slightly, gently mix in your drained pasta into this creamy mixture. It helps if you add a bit of saved pasta cooking water here; it will help emulsify everything better and create more sauce consistency. Stir thoroughly to ensure every strand gets coated perfectly.

If you prefer, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for that extra freshness burst. This step is optional but recommended as it adds a nice aroma and green color contrast against the white cream sauce.

Final Thoughts

Your Chicken Alfredo Pasta is now ready! Serve immediately while hot either as an individual portion or family-style depending upon your preference. For best results, consume within two days since leftovers can last up to four days stored properly in the refrigerator. If you want to take this dish one step further, try serving it with garlic bread alongside for extra indulgence.

Cooking Time: Approximately 35 minutesNumber of Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is not only an essential ingredient in the Italian cuisine but also a beloved dish across many cultures. Its creamy, comforting flavors make it ideal for any occasion – from casual dinners to more formal gatherings. By following these simple steps, you can easily recreate this delicious meal at home with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.