Introduction
If you’re in search of a creamy and delicious pasta dish, look no further than this chicken fettuccine recipe. Suitable for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines tender chicken, fettuccine, and a rich sauce made with garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
200 g (7 oz) chicken breast, halved horizontally
Salt and pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
250 g (8 oz) fettuccine
2 cups milk (any fat percentage)
1½ cups chicken stock or broth
1 large garlic clove, minced
½ cup thickened or heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Parsley, for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-4 people
Now that you have all the ingredients and the required time to prepare the dish, you’re ready to create a scrumptious meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the delightful flavors and creamy texture as you savor each bite of this homemade chicken fettuccine!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breast halves with salt and pepper, ensuring an even coating.
2. Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until it becomes golden and is cooked through.
4. Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain its juices.
5. Slice the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, slice the rested chicken into thin strips.
6. Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in 2 cups of milk, 1.5 cups of chicken stock or broth, and add the minced garlic. Stir to combine.
7. Bring to a Simmer
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it begins to simmer.
8. Add the Fettuccine
Once the liquid is simmering, add 250 g of fettuccine to the skillet.
9. Stir to Prevent Sticking
Stir the pasta every 30 seconds for about 3 minutes, ensuring it does not stick together.
10. Reduce Heat
After 3 minutes, once the pasta has softened slightly, reduce the heat to medium.
11. Continue Cooking the Pasta
Continue stirring the pasta every couple of minutes for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the pasta is close to fully cooked and there’s still some liquid left in the skillet.
12. Add Cream and Cheese
When the pasta is almost cooked, stir in ½ cup of thickened or heavy cream and ¾ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Simmer Until Thickened
Mix everything well and allow it to simmer for approximately 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the pasta is fully cooked.
14. Adjust Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick, incorporate a splash of hot water to reach a silky texture.
15. Season to Taste
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
16. Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Notes
Tip for Chicken
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Pasta Cooking Time
Cooking time for fettuccine may vary; check package instructions for specific timing.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Seasoning
Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Ensure an even coating for a well-seasoned dish.
Searing
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to sear the chicken. This method creates a golden crust while locking in juices for a tender result.
Resting
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist when sliced.
Simmering
Simmer the milk and chicken stock with garlic to infuse flavor. Bringing the mixture to a simmer allows flavors to meld before adding pasta.
Stirring
Stir the fettuccine every 30 seconds initially and then every couple of minutes to prevent it from sticking together as it cooks.
Thickening
Add cream and Parmesan cheese once the pasta is almost cooked. This will create a rich, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Adjusting Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of hot water. This technique helps achieve a silky consistency without diluting flavor.
Tasting and Adjusting
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use other pasta types instead of fettuccine?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta types such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
While heavy cream adds richness, you can use half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer a lighter sauce.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cream used or replace it with Greek yogurt for creaminess without the added calories.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water for moisture.
Conclusion
This creamy fettuccine with chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender protein with rich pasta and a savory sauce. The blend of Parmesan, garlic, and cream creates a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Its easy preparation and comforting flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Chicken Alfredo
Swap the fettuccine with linguine for a classic Chicken Alfredo twist.
Vegetable Fettuccine
Incorporate sautéed seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Chicken Fettuccine
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for a spicy kick.
Seafood Fettuccine
Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for a decadent seafood version of this creamy pasta.
Herbed Fettuccine
Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano for added freshness and flavor.
Mushroom Fettuccine
Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy flavor that complements the cream sauce beautifully.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Fettuccine
Add lemon juice and zest for a bright and zesty version that elevates the dish with a fresh citrus note.
