Simple Fruit and Cheese Skewers

Indulge in the rich, velvety flavors of Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken, a comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked fettuccine with tender, seasoned chicken and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This hearty meal is simple to make yet luxurious enough for a special occasion, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and date nights alike.

Key Information:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Number of servings: 4 servings
• Serving size: 1 plate (about 200g of pasta and chicken)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 720 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) fettuccine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300g / 10.5 oz total)
• 30 ml (2 tablespoons) olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 240 ml (1 cup) heavy cream
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
• 60g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
• 120g (1 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for marinating chicken)

Method of Preparation:

1. Cook the fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F). Remove from the pan, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Make the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Pour in the cream and milk, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer.
4. Add Parmesan and season: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it fully melts and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
5. Combine the pasta and chicken: Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until well-coated. Add the sliced chicken on top, mixing gently to distribute evenly.
6. Serve: Plate the Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips for Culinary Success:

1. Grate your own Parmesan: For the creamiest sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt smoothly.
2. Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep the chicken juicy, use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly at 165°F (75°C).
3. Reserve pasta water: Adding some pasta water to the sauce will help bind the sauce to the fettuccine and keep it from becoming too thick.
4. Warm your ingredients: Ensure the cream and milk are at room temperature before adding them to the pan to avoid curdling.
5. Serve immediately: Alfredo sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so it’s best served right after preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use any long pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or even penne if you prefer a different shape.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? You can substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
3. How can I make this dish lighter? You can reduce the amount of butter and substitute half of the cream with low-fat milk for a lighter version.
4. What can I serve alongside Fettuccine Alfredo? A fresh green salad or garlic bread are perfect side dishes to complement the rich flavors of this meal.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Fettuccine Alfredo is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

This creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. The rich, cheesy sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and pasta, creating a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Serve it with a glass of white wine and a simple salad for a well-rounded, memorable meal.