Chicken fettuccine is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken fettuccine at home, this guide will walk you through a simple, step-by-step recipe that anyone can follow.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 2 lbs chicken breast
– 3/4 lbs fettuccine pasta (or substitute with angel hair or vermicelli)
– 1 lb white mushrooms, sliced thickly
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 1/2 cups half-and-half (or substitute with cream for richer sauce)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for pasta water)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts of water with 1 tablespoon salt). Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips and season them generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and sauté until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and cover to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender. Finally, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the half-and-half and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, add the chopped parsley, and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly. Heat for an additional minute until everything is warmed through. Then, turn off the heat, cover the pan, and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period helps the sauce thicken slightly and cling beautifully to the noodles.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve your chicken fettuccine hot, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Extra Tips for Perfect Chicken Fettuccine
– Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness if they are thick. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for better melting and flavor.
– Reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a bit of this starchy water to the sauce can help loosen it if it becomes too thick.
– Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy without drying out.
Variations to Try
– Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
– Swap out mushrooms for broccoli or peas for a veggie twist.
– Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a richer sauce.
– For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with milk and reduce the butter.
Chicken fettuccine is a versatile and comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a delicious plate of homemade chicken fettuccine!
Enjoy your cooking adventure and bon appétit!