This creamy chicken penne Alfredo recipe elevates a classic comfort food to new heights. Forget the jarred sauce; this recipe uses fresh ingredients to create a luxuriously rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow, yet undeniably delicious, dish.
What Makes This Chicken Penne Alfredo Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't your average Alfredo. We're ditching the heavy cream and butter for a lighter, yet equally decadent, sauce that's still bursting with flavor. The secret? A combination of Parmesan cheese, a touch of milk or cream, and some clever cooking techniques that create the perfect creamy texture without being overly heavy. We also focus on seasoning the chicken and pasta perfectly to ensure every bite is a delicious experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 lb penne pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
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Cook the Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
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Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until melted and smooth. Slowly whisk in milk (or cream), stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine Everything: Add cooked chicken and pasta to the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While penne is classic for Alfredo, you can use other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rotini, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to choose a pasta that holds the sauce well.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be substituted, but use about 1/4 of the amount called for in the recipe (approximately 1 teaspoon). Fresh parsley offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables, such as sauteed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before adding the pasta and chicken. Cooking the pasta and chicken separately also allows for easier make-ahead options.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Chicken Penne Alfredo recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity belies its incredible flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a special occasion dish. Enjoy!
