Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is a rich and creamy Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many restaurants and households. This decadent pasta dish is made by tossing cooked fettuccine noodles with a sauce comprising of melted butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and cooked chicken, all topped with crispy Parmesan and parsley. When done correctly, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is a dish that can elevate any meal, making it a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children alike. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting, indulgent dinner or a romantic evening in, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 6 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Dredge them in breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
9. In a large serving dish, combine the cooked noodles, chicken, and sauce. Toss until well coated.
10. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
* To make the dish more indulgent, add cooked bacon or prosciutto to the sauce.
* For a lighter version, use lower-fat cream or add some steamed vegetables to the dish.
* Substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
* Add some spice to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
* Try using different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, for a change of pace.
* Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or ricotta, for a creamier sauce.
* For a vegan version, replace the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu and use a non-dairy creamer.