Transform your pasta night with chicken alfredo: half and half elevates the classic

Craving a luscious and satisfying meal without the heavy cream? Look no further than this delightful chicken alfredo recipe using half and half. This rich and creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken, creates a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling cozy and content.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups half and half
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed veggies and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the Half and Half: Gradually whisk in the half and half until smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
7. Serve: Serve the chicken alfredo immediately over your favorite pasta.

Tips for the Perfect Sauce

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• If the sauce is too thick, add more half and half. If it’s too thin, add a little more flour.
• For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of half and half.
• Add a dash of nutmeg or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Variations

• Broccoli Alfredo: Add 1 cup of chopped broccoli florets to the sauce.
• Spinach Alfredo: Stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach to the sauce.
• Mushroom Alfredo: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic.
• Bacon Alfredo: Crumble 4 slices of bacon and add them to the sauce.

Finishing Touches

• Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a complete meal.

Beyond the Basics: Elevate Your Chicken Alfredo

• Use Herb-Infused Half and Half: Steep fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, in the half and half before using it in the sauce. This will add an extra layer of flavor.
• Add Roasted Vegetables: Roast vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes and add them to the sauce for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Make Your Own Pasta: Impress your guests by making your own fresh pasta to serve with the chicken alfredo.
• Experiment with Different Cheeses: Instead of Parmesan, try using a blend of different cheeses, such as Gruyère, Fontina, or Asiago, for a more complex flavor.

A Taste of Home

This chicken alfredo recipe using half and half is a versatile and comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion treat, this recipe will deliver. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and indulge in the creamy goodness of this culinary delight.

The Last Bite: A Symphony of Flavors

As we savor the last bite of this exquisite chicken alfredo recipe using half and half, we can’t help but marvel at the symphony of flavors that dance upon our palates. The tender chicken, the velvety sauce, and the aromatic herbs create a culinary masterpiece that will linger in our memories long after the meal is finished. Whether enjoyed as a cozy comfort food or a special occasion treat, this dish is a testament to the power of simple yet satisfying ingredients.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of milk in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use whole milk or 2% milk, but the sauce will be thinner.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days ahead of time. Reheat it gently before serving.

Q: What are some other ingredients I can add to this recipe?
A: You can add sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or chopped spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but you may need to add a little more to thicken the sauce.

Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.