A symphony of flavors: try this chicken alfredo recipe with a half and half twist
What To Know
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on all sides.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of our delectable Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Half and Half. This classic dish is made even more indulgent with the addition of half and half, creating a velvety sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Whisk in the Half and Half: Gradually whisk in the half and half until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
5. Add the Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Season and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Alfredo with:
- Pasta: Linguine, fettuccine, or penne
- Bread: Garlic bread or crusty bread
- Salad: Green salad or Caesar salad
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Sauté chopped broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms with the onion and garlic for a vegetable-packed Alfredo.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Asiago, for a unique flavor.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of half and half.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, as it will become dry.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more half and half or water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve the Chicken Alfredo immediately for best results.
Health Benefits
- Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a rich source of calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Antioxidants: Parsley is a good source of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
What to Look for When Buying Ingredients
- Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner dish.
- Half and Half: Use fresh, high-quality half and half for the best flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Look for grated Parmesan cheese that is freshly grated or at least freshly packaged.
- Parsley: Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and aroma.
Conclusion
Our Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Half and Half is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. With its creamy, indulgent sauce and tender chicken, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor this delicious dish!
FAQs
Q: Can I use milk instead of half and half?
A: Yes, you can use milk instead of half and half, but the sauce will be thinner.
Q: What kind of pasta is best for Chicken Alfredo?
A: Linguine, fettuccine, and penne are all good choices for Chicken Alfredo.
Q: Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. However, the sauce may thicken slightly, so add a little more half and half or water when reheating.