Homemade Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo is a beloved classic that combines tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.

This homemade recipe will guide you through each step to create a delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts
• Italian seasoning
• Seasoning salt
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

• Your favorite pasta (fettuccine is traditional)
• 1 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken:
   • Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts generously with Italian seasoning, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This will infuse the chicken with a robust flavor that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large saucepan with high sides, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown, approximately 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
   • Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to cool slightly before slicing it into even strips. You can choose to slice the chicken before or after cooking, depending on your preference.

Making the Alfredo Sauce:

3. Prepare the Pan:
   • Using the same pan you cooked the chicken in, add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the remaining juices. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the flavorful bits left from the chicken are incorporated into the sauce.
4. Create the Cream Base:
   • Pour in 2 cups of heavy whipping cream and add 1/2 cup of butter (1 stick). Stir in 3/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let this mixture cook over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Incorporate the Cheese:
   • Gradually add 2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Lower the heat to keep the sauce warm while you prepare the pasta.

Cooking the Pasta:

6. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. For a classic Chicken Alfredo, fettuccine is an excellent choice. Ensure you cook the pasta to al dente, so it has a slight firmness when bitten.
7. Reserve Pasta Water:
   • Before draining the pasta, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help to adjust the consistency of the Alfredo sauce and add extra flavor.
8. Season the Water:
   • Mix 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning into the reserved pasta water. This will add a subtle kick and additional depth to the dish.

Bringing It All Together:

9. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • After draining the pasta, return it to the large pot. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the pasta and add the cooked chicken strips.
10. Adjust Consistency:
    • Pour the reserved and seasoned pasta water into the pot. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The starchy pasta water helps to thin out the sauce slightly and allows it to cling perfectly to the pasta.

Enjoying Your Homemade Chicken Alfredo:

Your homemade Chicken Alfredo is now ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of parsley for a pop of color. The combination of creamy, cheesy sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Alfredo:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic make a significant difference in flavor compared to pre-packaged alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensuring the chicken is juicy and tender is key to a delightful Chicken Alfredo. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
• Season Generously: Proper seasoning at each step ensures a well-balanced and flavorful dish.

With this detailed guide, you can confidently prepare a restaurant-quality Chicken Alfredo right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!