Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Grilled Chicken Strips
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Grilled Chicken Strips is a delightful, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or date nights. With its rich and indulgent Alfredo sauce, combined with perfectly grilled chicken and tender pasta, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice, the approach is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to replicate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, and here’s why you’ll love it:
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion.
- Quick to Prepare: With just a 15-minute prep time and a quick 25-minute cook time, you’ll have dinner on the table in under an hour.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor profile.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love pasta and creamy sauces, making this dish a hit among the younger crowd.
- Great Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers, they make for a delicious lunch the next day.
Pro Tips for Making the Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- To make the grilled chicken extra flavorful, marinate it in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.
- When cooking pasta, ensure to salt the water generously; this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Grilled Chicken Strips:
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 500g)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 300g penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 250ml heavy cream
- 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Begin by cooking the pasta. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 300g of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Season 2 large chicken breasts with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of garlic powder. This ensures that they are well seasoned and flavorful. If desired, let them marinate for about 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When ready, remove from heat, let cool slightly, and slice into strips.
Step 4: In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Lower the heat and pour in 250ml of heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the cream thicken slightly.
Step 6: Gradually add 100g of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with 1 tsp of black pepper, and taste for additional seasoning.
Step 7: Combine the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to ensure every pasta piece is coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 8: To serve, plate the creamy pasta and arrange the grilled chicken strips on top. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute penne with fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, combine them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. Simply cook them before combining with the pasta and sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
While the chicken Alfredo pasta can be frozen, the texture may change slightly upon reheating. For the best results, it’s recommended to consume it fresh or refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete your meal and add some freshness.
Conclusion
Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Grilled Chicken Strips is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your guests raving. It’s a simple yet decadent dish that can elevate any dining occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful grilled chicken, it truly is comfort food at its best. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe!
