This recipe delivers a classic creamy chicken penne Alfredo, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll explore variations and answer common questions to ensure you create the perfect dish every time.
What is Chicken Alfredo?
Chicken Alfredo is a pasta dish featuring penne pasta (or other pasta shapes), a creamy Alfredo sauce, and tender chicken. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the rich flavors of the sauce and the savory chicken to shine. It's a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to master.
Ingredients for Chicken Penne Alfredo
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- Optional additions:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Red pepper flakes for a little spice
How to Make Chicken Penne Alfredo: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
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Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil (if using). A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick for those who like a little heat.
How Long Does Chicken Alfredo Last?
Leftover Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Make Chicken Alfredo Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine everything together. This helps to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rotini, or farfalle. Choose a pasta that holds its shape well in creamy sauces.
How to Make a Lighter Chicken Alfredo?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese. Adding a touch of lemon juice brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
What are Some Variations of Chicken Alfredo?
- Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Alfredo: Add sun-dried tomatoes (chopped) to the sauce for a burst of intense flavor.
- Spinach Chicken Alfredo: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Mushroom Chicken Alfredo: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken for an earthy addition.
- Bacon Chicken Alfredo: Crumble cooked bacon over the top for a salty, smoky twist.
This comprehensive guide provides a delicious and versatile Chicken Penne Alfredo recipe. Experiment with the variations, and enjoy this comforting classic! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference for the perfect personalized dish.
