Introduction:
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, rich, and creamy experience of Buttery Garlic Chicken served over tender fettuccine. This simple yet flavorful meal combines juicy chicken, a rich buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s an ideal meal for a cozy night in or an impressive dish to share with friends and family. In this recipe, we’ll explore each step in creating this savory masterpiece that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Overview of the Recipe:
Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine is a quick and delicious meal that combines familiar ingredients to create an elegant dish. Succulent chicken breast is cooked in butter with garlic, then simmered in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Tossed with tender fettuccine, this dish is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
History and Origin:
While this recipe may not have a specific historical origin, it draws inspiration from Italian cuisine, particularly pasta dishes that are rich in cream and cheese sauces. Dishes like Alfredo and carbonara have popularized creamy pasta sauces globally. This recipe takes elements from these classics while adding a unique twist with buttery garlic chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add your pasta of choice (fettuccine or penne) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes for fettuccine.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken until it’s fully browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Garlic
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as it can turn bitter.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to incorporate it with the chicken and garlic.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed. The cheese will add a natural saltiness, so season carefully.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure each strand is thoroughly coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan mixture.
- Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine to serving plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with warm garlic bread or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. Adding roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini will complement the creaminess of the dish.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine pairs well with a crisp iced tea, a fresh lemonade, or even a sparkling mineral water with a splash of lemon. These beverages balance out the richness of the dish and offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Vegetable Additions
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
- Alternative Proteins
- Substitute the chicken breast with shrimp or turkey for a different flavor profile, or use beef strips for a heartier option.
- Spice It Up
- For a hint of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. This adds depth and a subtle spicy kick.
- Lighter Version
- Substitute heavy cream with a mixture of half-and-half or a light cream alternative for a lighter sauce, and reduce the butter quantity by half.
- Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free fettuccine or penne for a gluten-friendly version of this dish.
Health Benefits Notes:
- Chicken Breast: A lean protein source, chicken breast provides essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium.
- Garlic: Known for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, garlic is also beneficial for heart health.
- Heavy Cream and Parmesan: These ingredients add richness, but it’s best to enjoy them in moderation due to their high fat content.
- Butter: Provides a good amount of vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can substitute milk. To achieve a thicker consistency, consider adding a tablespoon of flour when cooking the butter and chicken.
3. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Romano or Asiago cheese are good substitutes. Just note that each cheese will impart a slightly different flavor.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.
5. How can I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté garlic on medium heat, adding it after the chicken is mostly cooked to prevent burning. Garlic burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
Conclusion:
Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine is a delightful and flavorful meal that satisfies with its creamy sauce and tender chicken. It’s a dish that’s easy to make yet impressive to serve, combining simplicity with indulgence. With easy modifications, you can make it your own, suiting different tastes and dietary preferences. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting recipe with loved ones!
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Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Buttery Garlic Chicken Fettuccine is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken breast, rich Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water with salt, cook pasta per package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, melt butter on medium heat, add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned (5-6 minutes).
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Prepare Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and add Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Substitute gluten-free pasta if desired. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, Garlic Butter Chicken Fettuccine, Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine, Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta